2 years ago today I had my weight loss surgery. I have lost somewhere in the window of 185 lbs, still losing slowly, but I don't get on the scale much anymore (like once a month). I just did a weigh in, it was 226.6 lbs. I have gone from a size 30W-32W in clothing to a size 16-18 average. I did not take measurements, but know how sizes have changed, and that is what I chose to judge by (plus the tape measure didn't fit preop). Tops - 28/30 to 12/14 Pants - cotton stretch 26W/28W - 12/14; cotton non stretch 30W/32W- 16/18; jeans could not fit, now 16. Skirts - 3X now 14/16 Bra- 48DD now 36D Panties - 13 now 7/8 Shoes - 12WW now 11 Ring - well varies by finger, but ring finger 13 ½ down to a 9. Height- 5'5 ½" down to 5'5 ¼ "(yes, I shrunk) Now, do I have any regrets on this surgery? YES. Why? Well, there are a lot of post op complications that I am experiencing, many of which the Dr's can't diagnosis. The first complication is the famous strictures. I was told that they are NOT a direct result of the weight loss surgery, but I NEVER HAD THEM PRIOR. Ok, so every 4-6 months it's back to the hospital for dilation. I'm suffering right now, but don't have time to go get it blown out. Then there was the dizziness, which started April 06 (ironically after eating a peep), never got a diagnosis. Now, I have blackout spells, which fortunately I have a dog who can alert me to them. I call them non epileptic seizures. I was tested for epileptic seizures, but the test came back negative. I am scheduled for an EKG next, to see if it is heart related or not. If not, they will diagnosis it as Pseudo Seizures. I guess along with the pseudo tumors I might just become an interesting case for some shrink. Oh, yeah, and I got a major case of depression. Mostly from all the complications I am experiencing. I am happy with the weight loss, and I know I could not have done it without the surgery. But I wish I had a crystal ball to know that there would be many additional obstacles to conquer after having the surgery to get "healthy". I've reached the Dr's goal as far as what was expected for weight loss. My personal goal was 225 lbs, and I had adjusted it to 175 lbs, but I'm guessing I won't get to that too soon. But, having been 412 lbs day of surgery, I shouldn't be too upset or disappointed. I'm not perfect. I have carbs in my diet. Maybe if I cut them out completely, I would lose more, maybe not. Well, to all who have yet to do this, hey, go for it. Most of the problems people face after, are rare or unique to that person. There are some here who have it worse than me, I know that. I am not looking for a pity party. I'm just reflecting on my last 2 years. Well, I have to get ready for school. Bright Blessings Mindi

I started at 265. I am just 5' tall best day: 128 worst day: 132 today: 130 We still have the tool! You can still get to your goal weight. I have vowed never to let myself get 5lbs above my goal weight. Anytime I do I immediately do the "time-out" program. I found out about it from the grad board. Basically it is two protien shakes and all the water or c-lite a day for a week. It is much easier not to eat, and just drink the shakes. This helps get your tummy back down to size, and gets the dumping feeling back. Also (trying not to be self-righteous...) EXCERCISE. This is were I really failed pre surgery. I realize that I will always have to excercise to keep my metabolism up. I really can say that I love to excercise. And if you haven't had plastics, consider that you have alot of loose skin and pockets of fat that aren't going to come off and will add up on the scale. So give yourself a break for a few of those pounds. Don't let yourself get any further away from goal, take action. You can do it!!!! Best wishes Pam

I don't know your calorie count from this but have you looked into that? Is there a reason why you are getting so much of your protein from drinks and bars? Personally, I don't like the drinks, so I had to get my protein from food pretty early on. Chicken is one of the meats I still struggle with; I'm much better with red meat. So, the basic questions are: 1) Are you getting your 64 oz. of water in? 2) Are you getting in your protein? 3) Are you limiting your sugars and simple carbs? 4) Are you eating enough? 5) Are you eating on a regular schedule? (helps avoid the starvation mode) 6) Are you exercising regularly? 7) Are you avoiding caffine? 8) Are you attending a support group? 9) Are you taking your supplements? 10) Are you avoiding snacking/grazing? 11) Are you getting enough sleep? By starting to exercise, you should start to see some movement. It is tough, but good luck, Sally

Well I think my start weight was 345. My lowest weight was 227 My worst day is 250 Thats 23 weight gain My best day I can get to 247 Thats a 20 lb weight gain. I would not be so upset if I would have gotten to 170 and gained but to have never got below 200 ****** me off. I have had my stricture fixed 2 times so far. I have started walking 1 mile in the mornings as fast as i can on the tread mill. I have protein bar for breakfast, salad for lunch protein bar for snack and if i can keep it doen chicken and protein shake for dinner. I have no idea why i am like this I just want to lose more. Anyone having this ? I know I am better thatan i started at and I am proud of what I have done. But i want to lose more and I have been waiting like 4 months without any loss.

Hey there Ms. Court!! You are unforgetable I just snack when I want too. Of course I need my band tightened a bit so I may be doing something completely different after Tuesday. Later Heather