Smaller going down than up

I have only posted a very few times, but enjoy the daily conversation between you all. I feel that I have really gotten to know you during the last eleven months. Eleven months ago, I had the gastric bypass, pneumonia and a second operation to reconection of the lower intestine, before I left the hospital for the first time. Two weeks later I had two minor heat attacks and a stint put in. Five months later, I had intestinal bleeding and needed three units of blood. To answer anyone thoughts, yes I would do it all over again. Not sure my husband would agree, after that roller coaster ride. I am almost 61 year years old, 5' 6" and started off at 258 pounds wearing a size 22 with the waistband undone. Today, I am still approaching 61, still 5' 6" but weigh 167 pounds and just purchased a size 12 pant, with the waist buttoned. I am losing about a pound a week with a goal of 150 to 155 pounds. Here is my question. About 15 years ago I managed to get down to 148 pounds, but basically wore a size 14, with only a very expensive outfit in a size 12. I weigh more now, but am in a smaller size. Long story, but my question is, has anyone else found they are smaller going down than when they were putting the weight on?

Yup! When I met my husband in October of 83, I was in a size 12 and weighed 145 which is less than I weigh now. I just purchased three pair of size 8 pants the other day. Think the smaller sizes are gradually getting a little bigger over time??? Hm... Glad you asked the question, 'cause I was wondering if it was just me or others too! Peggy B.

My gosh, this has been a roller coaster for you! What a horrible set of complications you had to deal with. But I hope that, with your lower weight, your health is improved and your risk for further heart problems is diminished. As for size, I don't think I'm smaller...just shaped differently. I can't seem to lose the belly flab, I'm sure it's from being so overweight, and having twins at that weight, my tummy is so stretched it just can't bounce back. So my upper body is probably smaller than before, but lower body proportionately larger than before, at the same weight. I'll never lose this tummy without plastic surgery, and I'm just not ready for that. I'm about 5' 10", so at my present weight of about 175, I'm wearing mostly size 16. Some XLs are too large; some Ls are too small. Sheryl

Size has been the biggest frustration for me....I am ALL OVER the board with my sizes. I'm 5'1" and weigh around 138. Most of my excess weight is still on my stomach (I know most of you understand that). I wear anywhere from a size 8P to a 14P, depending on the designer & style. Even within a designer's line it can vary widely. I bought an outfit at Anne Klein. The top was a 14P, the bottom a 12P and the jacket a 10P. The pants are now falling off of me, but the top still barely fits! Arrgh! Same thing at Ann Taylor - Some of their 12P clothes didn't fit me, but the 8P cargo pants are roomy!!! Now, I know I shouldnt complain too much - I'm VERY thankful that I can shop at these stores at all. But, it's very frustrating having to bring 2 or 3 sizes in every style into the dressing room with you. I've been blessed with some very understanding sales people, who are helpful, but it's time consuming and exhausting!! And I thought shopping was going to be so much fun! (well, sometimes it is....) Kate Lawson 240/138/125