Changing body image...

[Tate777 84]

Why is it that 75 pounds down, I feel worse about how I look and am more critical of my body than I was when I weighed 300 pounds? I can see my body is smaller, and rationally I understand this is a good thing, but now my eyes are drawn to the sags, bags, wrinkles, and jiggles.....I have lost a lot but am impatient to lose more. I am quick to criticize myself and say how "fat" I am. I did not do any of these things with any kind of regularity before surgery. Sure, I knew I was fat, but it was like I had accepted it and was trying to make the best of it. Now? All i can do is look in the mirror and sigh because I am not thin. I think that is so CRAZY because i have lost 75 pounds!!

Has anyone else experienced this? What do you think it is about?

[SherB 220]

Hello,

Yes I can relate. I lost over 100 pounds through diet and exercise several years back. I felt exactly the same way even though I knew I lost the weight I didn't feel any better. This is a skewed body image you have. I am guessing it is not too unusual. People that have not gone through it cannot understand. Really it is no different than an anorexic looking in the mirror and seeing an overweight person. One thing to try is to have someone video tape you, maybe hanging out with friends or family. Watch the video and you will be amazed. It may not take away the feelings but maybe you should consider some individual therapy. I am sure there are specialists in the area of body image. Best of luck to you and congratulations on your weight loss.

[Tate777 84]

I am familiar with body dysmorphia. Perhaps I have not described my question adequately. It is not that I see myself as fatter than I actually am. It is that I am more critical of my body than I was when I was much larger. My eyes are drawn to my flaws much more readily than when I was larger.

I have been in therapy several times in my adult years and found it very helpful. I do not believe my issue is beyond moderate at this point and does not warrant further work at this time. I was merely curious, but I appreciate the suggestion.