One Year Out Gastric Sleeve Surgery With Pics--no Rules, Just Right!

[weightnomore 8]

Yesterday, December 7th was my one year surgiversary. It has been a great year and a rough year. A healthier year and a sicker year. An anxious year and a peaceful year. Contrasts, to say the least.

I started at 207 lbs and a 36 BMI. From the beginning I had trouble following the Protein rules because everything made me gag--things like almond butter which I loved before and Protein shakes which I thought were pretty good before. So I did the best I could in finding protein sources, but fell way under the allotted amount.

I also struggled with eating too fast--a lifelong habit. I had many occasions, especially in restaurants, when I was involved in conversation and would forget to slow down. food would get stuck, and I made more than my fair share of trips to the bathroom to "let it out". One time I was in a clothing store after eating and then drinking Water on top of it. The liquid started to come up on it's own and I ran to the bathroom, thanking God it was not in use by anyone else.

At about six months out, it seemed to dawn on me that "Hey, I can only eat a small amount and it's okay. Just take your time with it and enjoy it."

I had some unrelated female, back and thyroid health issues which often kept me from exercising. Because of these things and because I was so fed up with dieting rules and didn't try very hard, I lost slowly. Slowly compared to many on this forum, but according to my doctor, I'm on track or a little ahead of the game.

My cholesterol is down from 275 to 216 and my sleep apnea is completely gone.

I have had some problems with acid reflux. I had a very large hiatal hernia repair at the time of the surgery, and don't have good tone in the upper sphincter. I am still dealing with this to see if anything besides taking PPI's can help. My doctor suggests converting to the bypass, but I'd have to be in pretty bad shape to do that. I waited a long time for my insurance to cover the sleeve for a reason!

I encourage anyone who is on the fence to take the plunge and do it while you are young. At age 55, the loose skin especially in the face is an issue. I don't care too much about what is covered by clothing. My brother says he knows some people who had the surgery and their faces looked drawn at first, but eventually filled out. I hope that is the case with me.

The lack of hunger is a good thing and a bad thing. I'm getting used to it, and do have to often force myself to eat. Going out to restaurants is not as satisfying because if you're not hungry you don't get that great satisfied feeling from eating. Now I eat pretty much what I want, trying to choose healthy, natural foods and keeping mindful of my protein intake. I still have chips and chocolate on a regular basis, though. I have a rough time giving those up.

The absolute BEST part is not always being unhappy with myself about my weight. All the diet books are gone (and I had a huge stack). I don't immediately go to the "how to lose weight" articles when I open a magazine. I eat what I like and enjoy it in small amounts. I take my time with it, eat slowly and when I'm done, I enjoy the conversation, rather that craving what I'm going to have for dessert. When I go out, I don't feel self-conscious and try to cover everything up. It's very freeing!

I'm not sure where I am going to end up, but I have 12 lbs to go to reach my goal weight. I have already reached my goal size. Everything is different than when I was young. I used weigh 10 lbs less than I do now, but I was a size 14. I celebrated my anniversary by buying a pair of size 10 stretch black corduroy jeans! Down from an 18-20. Yeah!

[favoredone 590]

Congrats!! You look amazing!!!!

[MegInNOLA 531]

Wow, congratulations! You look great, and it seems like you're past the most difficult parts of the transition into thinner living! Way to go!!

[wishes 125]

Wow, after all the changes and hardships, you look great and some happy!

[mnbsleeve 87]

Sounds like you've been through quite the journey and you look GREAT! Looks like you are feeling pretty good too! I love the pics! That last one with your arms up is awesome! :-) Congratulations on everything you have accomplished. Enjoy the new you!

[Paola 62]

You look great! Love the last pic, you look so happy!

[swizzly 901]

Well done you! Looking fab! I have a terrible turkey wattle neck and I despair of it ever getting any better. Oh well, small price to pay. Cheers!

[feedyoureye 3,087]

You look fantastic! Congratulations on your success and attitude!

[KellyL 173]

Congrats you have done an amazing job!!! I could totally relate to so much in your post. I love the before/after pics, especially the last one. It's so amazing, you've got this happy and satisfied look on your face that kind of relays/expresses joy at finally coming to a closure with your struggles and long journey. I'm just thrilled for you!!

[hadouni 301]

Congratulations!

[Less of Leslie 90]

Congrats! A size 10?! Good job!! I can't hardley wait! It was great to hear that you have figured out what works best for you and your lifestyle. Keep up the good work.

[longer-life 139]

I loved your post. I want to be free as well so I hope to persevere like you. Congratulations!!

[LilMissDiva Irene 3,282]

Sounds like you've had a pretty normal yet super fantastic first year! You look FAB-U-LESS!!!

[coops 1,790]

Fair play... you've had a tough time but come out on top!

I love the pictures, especially the last one... but, may I say, you need to buy new jeans 'cos those bad boys are HANGING off you!!

Congrats on a job well done! =]

[DisappearingDivis 36]

Wow! You look great! Congrats!!