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Thanks to all of you that chimed in. I am so looking forward to getting started. I go for all my preop stuff on the 21st and the date for surgery is tenatively set for 10/3. My Surgeon is Dr.Terry Pinson at the North Mississippi medical center Bariatric Center. It is great comfort to me to see so many people from so many different states that have had such amazing stories of success. Can't wait to be one:001_smile:

One month after a gastric sleeve.... Ups and downs. I'm eating all kinds of things, in tiny amounts, and sipping. 23 pounds down since surgery day, so, not too quick, not too slow. I now take two chewable multivitamins, calcium+D, and biotin. I am off the pain meds, but I've saved some percosets for when I'm feeling better... *wink* I just took my last prilosec. I wonder how that will shake out. Physically, I feel mostly back together, but not 100%. I teach 7th grade, and I have enough energy to teach all day, so a win there in the recovery column, but I'm having a devil of a time finding all the words I know that I know. Several files in my brain have bad directories now. Very frustrating, but I have hope that it will resolve soon. Stoopid anesthesia.... My incisions are still angry red, but totally sealed up. I had a pesky suture that kept poking out of one, but I finally clipped it off below the skin and it covered and closed itself. I realize just now that the itching has gone down dramatically in the last day or so. Win. My waist and thighs are drawing in, but that makes my flabby lower abdomen look bigger! I know it's melting, too, but not as quickly, and relativity is a bitch. I'm tracking all my foods, and I'm hovering around 8 to 9 hundred calories on a good day, sometimes less, but I am getting consistent patterns established. I can go on this way indefinitely, I think. In 30 minutes, on an empty stomach, I can bring 12-16 ounces of water. I can totally feel the water flow through the pylorus. More solid things, say, cottage cheese, I can take about 4 ounces, but I need to take a break in the middle. Fish, I can get 2-3 ounces in, and no more. And it must be very wet fish - not overcooked. I threw up once, and it was overcooked trout. I had slime first, and when I could not stand the discomfort any more, my husband said, just get it over with. I don't like to vomit. Myself needed convincing, but I felt better after. I've only puked once on the soft foods, so I count that as a win, too. I've tried some other more solids, too. A bite of carrot even. No problems. But I don't want to push it. I'm cooking and shopping out of habit, and my freezer is FULL. I think I will just stop cooking altogether. What I cooked tonight will literally take me a week to eat. Maybe over sharing here, but the first real poop was rough. A week after surgery, we were shopping and I realized what needed to happen. I made a nice normal poo, and then felt nausea. I think the intestines had been in a shock and the waking to do their job was too much for them. It's gotten better since, but its days between the little poops. Small eats means small outs. Doesn't bother me much. Similarly, sex was a cautious adventure, too. A week out, we managed a gentle try, three weeks after surgery, all systems were ready for anything. Win. And, as always when I am on a diet, I want to put hot sauce on everything. However, I don't think this is a good idea just yet. I am curious as to what comes next and to see how this goes. At one point several years ago, I was 293 pounds (5'11"). I worked hard and dieted down to 187. That was impossible to maintain through a divorce, a brief time of homelessness, a career change, and a new relationship. I'm at 227 as of this morning. I'm pretty sure that losing some more is in the cards, but how much more? At my lowest, I was thin looking. Some said too thin, but 10 or more pounds would not change that look much, not at my height. My doc says 149 is a healthy weight for me, but I think that is WAY too thin. I'd be a bag of bones! My boobs would be two empty purses with olives at the bottom! So, goal... 175, and then reevaluate? That's 52 pounds from here, and if I go 2 pounds per week that gets me there by summer. We shall see... Lastly, my husband is taking this opportunity to get himself back on track. He was banded 7-ish years ago. He dropped 150 pounds, but he's put 25 or so back on in the last year. We've been happy and eating like newlyweds... Anyway. He's been super supportive. His goal is 210, from his staring point of 275. Doing the math, from collective high weights to goals, 400 & 293 to 210 & 175, we will have lost a collective 308 pounds. That's like two people... It's us getting ourselves in better health together.

Hi guys i am not doing to bad, was banded 1st oct 2012, lost 2stone 2lbs, but have come to a Plato, my fill is 7 mls in a 10 ml band, don't want much more, as going 4 hrs before hungry, coffee fills me right up, not sure how, but hey I take it, as I don't want to over eat, trying hard to eat healthy, but feel I may be eating to much fat, can any one, advise me what quantities I should be having per day, thank you in advance.

I am on Mirena... I love love LOVE it! With both Mirena and Paragaurd you can have them removed early... No matter what you are never forced to keep it in the full 5 or 10 years...

My wife had a bypass 10 years ago. I had a sleeve 6 weeks ago. The sleeve was a much better choice for me. I am living a very normal life at this point and losing almost a lb a day. My wife was not nearly as successful with the bypass, and she has regained much of her weight. The real world is more complicated that the summary weight-loss charts in the medical journals. I hate to say it, but surgery is driven as much by personality as it is by science. If you read this forum a while you will see there is enourmous variation in procedures and follow-up care between surgeons. It would not be surprising if your surgeon has a bit of a preference for the familiar and proven bypass procedure, but at least he is giving you the choice. You are thinking about the right issues. Your success depends on how well your procedure fits the life you plan to lead. The absence iof dumping, absorption issues, and fewer problems with good getting "stuck" were a big deal for me. I have lived up-close and personal with the alternative for years. I would not have had WLS if the sleeve procedure was not available. The studies show that the average weight loss for sleeve is less than the average weight loss for bypass. But these studies also show enourmous variation in the amount of weight loss between individuals. That shows that the outcome has more to do with the individual's approach to the weight loss surgery, than the type of surgery chosen. The bottom line is that you can do really well or, rather badly with either procedure. Make the decision with all the best information, realizing that the people advising you are human too. Once you make the choice, commit to the change and do not look back. If you do that you will be OK either way. Sent from my iPad using VST

I had the sleeve and so did my hubby between the 2 of us we have lost 280 lbs needless to say sex is hotter when you are missing a whole person, or 2! And I'm more limber with less weight. 10 times better than pre surgery. Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I897 using VST

Again, thank you for all of your insight. Tomorrow is his two week post op appointment and I will have a lot to say. Little has changed. Today he refused to go to his other doctor because he is too tired, and he refused to even talk to them. He's still demanding and thinks he's helpless. Snort. Three positive tiny moments, though. I heard him using the swiffer in the bathroom the other day. This weekend he was on the phone with a friend and he suddenly forgot he was pathetic. He laughed and talked with energy for a good 20 minutes. And this morning, miracle of miracles, he walked 10 extra feet and got his own yogurt. It's something. I am trying to do a better job of taking care of myself. Not easy. And yes, I have many options to consider. I'm well aware of the situation, and that I don't deserve the abuse. For all those who read this prior to surgery and wonder, he is doing well with his new eating style. He feels full. He feels satisfied. He swoons for my omelets still, just now they're tiny 1 egg versions with no butter and well cooked veggies. I don't think he expected to still find pleasure in food under the new regime...but he does.

So as not to hijack an existing thread, I thought I'd start a new one. Since I began looking into bariatric surgery in 2019, I've done much research and reading. On the internet, I limited myself to sites that I knew were reputable and were evidence-based (i.e., Mayo Clinic) rather than sites that were trying to sell surgery. Once I was accepted into my program, I watched videos suggested by the program (i.e., Dr. Matthew Weiner) and took to heart the information I was given from my program. I came into the program with a lot of pre-existing knowledge on nutrition and diet having grown up with a Type 1 diabetic father and myself a Type 2. Despite that knowledge base, I obviously wasn't applying it or I would not have been to the point where I was considering surgery. One of the hardest things I had to do throughout my surgery preparation appointments and meetings was to go in and actually listen. I accepted that my way wasn't working and if I was going to proceed with a body and life-altering surgery, I needed to adopt what I was being taught. As you can see in my stats, it's worked. But I know I'm not done learning, maintaining and working on making good decisions and healthy choices for the long-term. In my classes, the dietician warned about social-media, weight-loss surgery groups. I admit that I move in and out of some groups. The overall lack of information and sharing of misinformation boggles my mind. It certainly proved that there are programs and doctors simply out to make money and there are patients willing to believe anything they are told without doing their own research or taking accountability for their own actions. I was grateful to find this site and have a source of information rather than opinion. I was happy to hear from WLS veterans who have gone through the process and how they are successfully maintaining. I wanted to hear what those experiences were so that I can learn from them. I did not want them to sugar-coat the truth and I did not expect unmitigated "support." If my understanding or behavior was counterproductive, I wanted to hear that. I needed to hear that. I still do. There seems to be a misconception that in order to be supportive, someone needs to say your choices are ok. Being truthful with someone, does not always mean saying what and how you are doing things is ok.

@Walter.Sobchak Hang in there. 10 months out and still the best decision I have ever made. It's scary, but I cannot explain with words how much more rewarding life is on this side of surgery.

Surgery date : 7/10/17. Surgery weight: 295. Today's weight: 254. Sent from my SM-G930V using BariatricPal mobile app

Hell there, just wanted to share my experience. I am now in my second week post gastric sleeve surgery. I stared my weight loss on January 17, had surgery on February 5, 2018. Here's my observations about my body & mind so far: 1. My starting weight was 343 lbs (I am 6ft 3ins tall). Had surgery on February 5th, 2018 at Forest Hills Hospital, NY c/o Dr Alison Barrett (Great doctor by the way!). 2. Day of surgery I weighed 325 lbs. 3. The first two to three days were uncomfortable, without too much actual pain. Stayed overnight in hospital, rereleased end of 2nd day. Had a-slight spleen bled which doctor took care of. Had to crush my regular meds for the first two weeks. 4. Once I had started the pre diet, I went out and bought my self a 3 tier steamer, and steamed fish and loads of veggies. This really made a difference leading up to the two week official pre-op diet. Best purchase ever! Love the way food tastes. Yes, you actually taste things better when they are steamed. 5. I did all my 2nd stage food prep using a blender, mixing proteins and steamed veggies then sealing them in small plastic containers before freezing them. Being prepared ahead saves you being stressed. 6. Once I started the diet, my mind & my body started to feel lighter. I really noticed the difference. I was determined to do this, and had nerves all the way until I was on the OR table. I was not going to let myself down by backing out. I stayed focused and remained resolute in my head. I had others around me who would question if I was doing the right thing, but I had to shut them out, and only listen to my determination talking. 7. I am about to go to stage 3 pureed food, but have already been able to tolerate some of the already prepped food. So I am sure I will be fine when I make the switch. 8. For the first time in my life, I now pay attention to food, I mean really pay attention. I check whats in it, how many carbs, how much protein. I feel that I have a stake in my body, and am no longer controlled by my out of control binging. 9. I don't feel hungry. I don't feel obliged to stuff my face, for the first time. I actually care about the success of this process. 10. I wish I had done this a lot earlier (I am 57 years old) 11. I feel lighter in my mind & body. I am able to move around better, I am able to bend over and pick things up. I can feel the weight going. ITs the little things you notices, like on your love handles, or your belly shrinking, or you legs getting thinner. As of today I weigh in at 308 lbs 12. I made sure I read as much as I can and talked to others who've had the surgery. I built up my knowledge base. There's some great You Tube videos out there. They help. 13. I decided to just let the process move forward. I have stopped checking my weight every day, and now only do it once a week. I prevent myself from getting disappointed if I plateau, and we all do, so expect it, but don't panic, just stay focused and follow the new rules of eating. 14. I started to research health clubs & swimming pools. Water Aerobics appeals to me, with bikes and stuff at a gym to follow. I am going to pace myself. 15. My dog is now very happy with me, as I am now able to walk her twice a-day for at least an hour, and not be out of breath. I actually enjoy doing different routes each, taking on board any roads that have an incline. I have a lot more energy. 11. My type 2 diabetes has improved significantly almost from day 1 after surgery. My numbers are down to the 80's & 90's with the highest being in the low 100's. What food you put in really does make a difference too. 12. My clothes are now feeling a lot looser. Belt size has gone down a lot. So finally, I'd say I am on the right track. To those waiting for surgery, stay calm, stay focused, don't be put off by those around you. We all have enables in same shape or fashion. To get this far it has taken a lot of courage and grit. You are doing the right thing. You are helping you, add value and years to your own life, as well as those aorund you. Be brave and stay strong. Be prepared, plan ahead and Dream Positive Dreams. Peace, Love & Light.

Since my weight has come down I'm waking up early morning with massive amounts of energy it's like nothing I've ever experienced before, I'm walk-run-sprinting for 10 kilometres and returning home and lifting weights for 30 mins and still cannot sit or relax due to the amount of energy running through me, normally this has been happening between 8am -9.30am then goes away, anyone else experienced this?

I agree. It does go fast. First appt for me was 12/10, sleep study 12/17. Psych eval 12/22. Saw the psych again 1/11 and nutritionist 1/17. Lab work was done 1/13. 1/22 was abdominal sonogram (checking my gallbladder) Met surgeon again 2/4 and endoscopy 2/7. Only reason my surgery would be schedule last week of March/beginning of April is because I'm traveling out of country end of Feb for 2 weeks. After I come back- hoping they approve my surgery- I do the 2 week pre op diet and then I get sleeved. I can't wait!!

I am on my day 7 of 10 liquid diet for surgery 4/18/16. Got in a huge argument with my husband last night. He ended up saying the he thinks VSG is stupid and he was never on borad with my life change. I told him that he took vows to support me no matter what. So later I just thought he is going to be the one not happy with himself and unhealthy in the long run. I am not! I am going to finally take off my fat suit and live my life. FatKellyRN>soontobe<SleeveKellyRN

Although it feels like it will never come soon enough you will eventually pass through this! I think it lasted almost the whole first week with me (I was banded 6/28/10) I’m six weeks out now and still burp funny! It’s kind of like a hiccup and then burp…I’ve gotten used to it! I wish you lots of luck!!

I am 10 weeks post op and still having lots of gas. I know Protein drinks do it to me but I do not have them often. I am staying on my program, eating sensibly, drinking my Water, and getting in my protein. Weight loss has been slow but pretty steady. I had the shoulder gas pains post op and this is not it. Just plain old gas! My Dr put me on Flagyl for a week and told me this happens to some people. It's because of the drastic change to our digestion. He thought that would do the trick. It did not. I tried Gas X and it did nothing. I do not drink carbonated drinks and I am out of ideas. Has anyone out there had this? I just got some papaya enzymes and hope that will help. I have taken Beano in the past so I guess I will try it again too. Any other suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Blessings, GG

Try a probiotic, it seemed to realy help me. They have one that is like a piece of chocolate 10 cals ,1 carb, I got it at walmart. The packageing looks like a pint of ice cream. Healthy delights ProBiotic bites dark chocolate. A Probiotic is sort of like yogart on steroids,each piece has one Billion live cultures. Live cultures if you dont know already, are good bacteria that eat up or kill or something bad bacteria.

"Why am I posting this thread? Seems like many people at my height, 5'7" and weight, 160 are much smaller than I am as it relates to size. I have some "give" in some of the 12's I'm in, but mostly I am a 'solid' 12/mediums now." I don't nearly match your height and am small boned, but now at 160 pounds I wear mostly 12s with the occasional size 10 thrown in. Tops are mostly medium with the occasional small. Also like you I exercise quite a lot. I go on strenuous 6 hour hikes though with smaller hikes throughout the week. I have replaced a lot of the fat with muscle in my core and lower body. I have zilch for upper body strength. I do think you are at the correct clothing size, but what you have been told about the lower sizes is close to correct. When I reach goal at 130 I should be wearing a 6 as I remember. It is more like one size for every 10 pounds whereas at size 22-16 it was more like 30-40 pounds. Weird huh?

I'm on a 10 day liquid diet protein shakes, broth, sugar free jello, a random egg her and there. I'm also allowed yogurt and cottage cheese which I can't stand its been tough day number 3 is today

I'm also feeling a bit that way.... I am 15 days post op and on clear liquids, so I'm not even eating anything and as of today I am down 17 pounds. I'm down a total of 34pounds (including the 10 day liquid diet before surgery). I'm chosing to stay positive and be thankful that I am most importantly losing! Good luck to you and I hope it starts to melt off of you!!!

I've always been a pickup guy for my main ride.....however the ride that did change as a result of my sleeve is two wheels.......and pedal power. I actually ride a bicycle now. And I LIKE it.......go figure. I get a real thrill putting in 10 to 20 miles for exercise and enjoyment. If really feels great. I even........drum roll.........found I needed to get those tight fitting spandex biking shorts for riding.....and the shirts too. Can't help laughing about that (doesn't seem real).......but it does feel good to feel normal when riding and look the part and not stand out as a joke on a bicycle.

I have to say I feel the same way. I was sleeved on 8/10/17 and have been trying to do this liquid diet. I am so over this! I am exhausted, I know I am not getting all my nutrients in, everything taste like prunes and I'm just over it. I have my follow up with my provider tomorrow and I am hoping to get started on my vitamins and maybe start the puréed foods a little early.

I am not aware of any free samples but did buy samples of Unjury from their website (they were $1.99 each plus shipping). Also purchased a 10 pack sample of Syntrax Nectar from my bariatric pantry online. You can make a note in their comment section about what favors you want. I loved this as I knew I wouldn't be stuck with flavors I definately wouldn't like.

Please don't let fear of the unknown keep you from using the awesome tool that is VSG surgery. I too was consumed by the same fears as you are, all the way up to the morning of my surgery last week on December 14th. Even while I was being prepped for surgery by the OR nurses, I was calling my family and friends discussing the idea of backing out of the surgery at the very last minute. I now thank God that I went through with the procedure because it has been life changing. I had virtually no pain, merely a little soreness and no complications. As of this morning I've now lost 20 lbs, in a mere 10 days since surgery. I feel a lot better, I'm more active, and unlike the past 30 years, when I was always yoyo dieting, I now know I will definitely reach my goal weight and maintain it. Only you can decide what's best for you, but I sure wish I hadn't wasted so many years of my life being fearful of the surgery that I now feel blessed to have had. Good luck! Don't look back, turn the page, and let your next chapter begin!