Hi, I have to have another 2 surgeries, only 1 is related to my RNY. The opening from my stomach to my small intestine got stretched, so now I am scheduled May 5th to have a ring placed in there so I can continue the weight loss I still need to lose. When the anastomosis got stretched it caused me to get hungry sooner and I was able to eat more, so I lost 90 pounds and my goal was 140 pounds. I am excited and nervous about this surgery because I have NO clue what to expect. All I do know is the surgeon says he has to preform this surgery 3x a month, so it is not just me, phew! As far as my absorption is concerned, I have NO idea how much medications I absorb. I do know that regular tylenol does not even help me w/headaches, I need something a lil stronger. All my vitamins are ok, I guess because I just had labworks drawn and all my levels were perfect. My second surgery will probably be in July, I am not sure, I am hopefully getting my fallopian tubes repaired because I have had 2 ectopic pregnancies. I do not want to have to get invitro because alot of insurances will not pay for that. I wish you ALL the best. Blessings Robin

Beginning weight 286 Goal weight (according to BMI chart) 150 Weight for the last year 144 (give or take a couple pounds in either direction) Call me crazy or lucky, but living with my DS has been easier than I ever imagined it would be. I'm at the point now, where nobody can tell that I've had any wls when they watch me eat. I'm also getting in all of my protein via real food since I was 6 mos post op. I've had a hernia repair over the summer, but no other complications. My nutritional levels are all good exept for my Vitamin D. I think I have it conquered, though. I'll know for sure next month on my checkup. I'm wearing a size 6, sometimes 8. I've never been thin before since I was a little girl, so this is all new to me. I've got some skin issues that are easily camouflaged with my clothes. Overall, I'd say my general body looks 10 years older than I am, but my face looks younger. Funny huh? I just love living life and the fact that I'm not so insufferably hot all summer. I have developed a fetish for coats now, to assist me in my being cold all of the time.

I have had to undergo an additional 11 surgeries - (some unrelated to my bariatric surgery in October 2005). After the surgeries, I have had problems healing and on a couple of occasions have contracted serious infections which I end up being hospitalized for several weeks or even a month or longer. Surgeons have advised my immune system has been compromised by the bariatric surgery... I have been told by doctors that my system now only absorbs 10-14% of intake... (meds., i.e. antibotics) Anyone with similiar problems?

I'll try it. I gained 11 since in the last 6 months, but since last week I lost 4. I'll let you know how I make out. Lisa

Lisa, don't worry about losing the 11 pounds in 4 days just for your surgeon. Focus on making small changes to your day-to-day habits that you can maintain long-term. Critically reevaluate what you're eating, if you're grazing, drinking with meals, etc., then work on dropping any bad habits that you've allowed to creep back in. Stick with your new exercise routine - again, think long-term. The exercise will help burn calories and improve your skeletal muscle, which in turn should bump up your metabolism a bit. I think a lot of us begin to experience some regain after a couple years, but by being mindful about your day-to-day habits and remaining committed to staying healthy, you can drop the weight you've gained and maintain at a weight that's comfortable for you. Good luck on your continuing journey - Kellie