My One Year Surgery Anniversary!

[omrhsn 621]

I can't believe it has been a year already since I had my surgery. Time really flies. This past year was filled with lots of major milestones, NSVs and overall positive things. I decided to write this post to hopefully inspire others who are on the fence or those who are already on their weight loss journey.

I had my surgery (MGB) in Egypt on 30 January 2022. My sister had hers earlier that month and it didn't take her long to convince me to do it as well. I flew to Egypt on 28th, admitted to hospital on 29th and had the surgery 30th morning. I stayed in the hospital for two days and rested for a week in Cairo before flying back to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The whole process went smooth and the recovery was quick with no major issues. Just a bit of discomfort which is normal for any surgery. I was not given any specific diet to follow except for some guidelines - one week of Clear Liquids, 1 week of pureed food followed by gradual introduction of solid food in week 3.

I will start with the positives and the current stats. The negatives / issues are listed below

My starting weight was 149 kg. I was 85 kg yesterday. That means I’ve lost a total of 64 kg or 43% of my starting weight. I still have like 15 kg to go. The weight loss was quick at first then started to become slower but I’m more than happy with where I’m at right now.

I didn’t follow a strict diet but rather reduced my food intake and ate healthier. I always start with my Proteins vegetables and end with carbs. It helps that I cook myself so I know what goes into my food and can control the portions. I now enjoy food better than before because I really take my time to eat. There are some foods that I can’t tolerate like Pasta, scrambled eggs etc. Not sure why but I’m not too concerned by that.

Here are some of the major achievements and NSVs I’ve experienced the past year (a part from the weight loss):

I went from size 52” pant to size 34-36 inches pants depending on the cutting. Here is a comparison between the pants I wore on surgery day and the current ones.

Custom-made shirt on surgery day vs the one I wore yesterday (Size M)

Here is me in December 2021 and yesterday morning (left to right)

I got myself a mountain bike when I went below 100 Kg and that helped a lot. I try to go on a ride around the town whenever time and weather allow. I’m planning to do this more often after the rainy season. I feel more fit and energetic overall.

I was able to join my family in a lot of fun activities which was impossible last year. I took the kids to the Water park last weekend and we all had a great time. My son told me that he is so happy I could go on the water slide with him and that made the whole journey worth it.

I’m planning to join the gym and start rebuilding muscles and tone my body. I’ve some loose skin here and there but it doesn’t bother me. I might end up having it removed but it is too early to decide now.

There were also some negatives (as with everything in life) which I consider to be minor :

- The 6 months blood work showed that I had Vitamin B12 and D deficiency. The doctor asked me to take high doses of Vitamin D and daily Vitamin B12 tabs which I’ve been doing over the last 6 months. I’m planning to redo the test soon.

- I struggled with heartburn and indigestion early on but I learned how to control it. I don’t add a lot of spices to my food now and will stop eating if I feel any discomfort. I still get it every now and then but OTC heartburn medicines really help.

- Loose skin specially on my arms and thighs (but that was expected)

Overall I’m very happy with my decision and what I’ve achieved over the past year. I’m really looking forward to this coming year.

[GreenTealael 25,335]

Congratulations!

[Smanky 747]

You're looking absolutely fantastic. Well done!

[NP_WIP 274]

Congratulations!! Thank you for sharing your story.

[ChubRub 1,702]

Congratulations and Happy Anniversary!!

[omrhsn 621]

22 hours ago, GreenTealael said:

Congratulations!

Thanks!

[omrhsn 621]

15 hours ago, Smanky said:

You're looking absolutely fantastic. Well done!

Thank you so much!

[omrhsn 621]

10 hours ago, NP_WIP said:

Congratulations!! Thank you for sharing your story.

Thanks!

[omrhsn 621]

9 hours ago, ChubRub said:

Congratulations and Happy Anniversary!!

Thank you so much!