New to this - with an important question.

Hi...my name is Brandy and I'm from Searcy, AR. I'm scheduled to talk to Dr. Corbin on the 26 of this month. I'm really looking forward to having the surgery, but I've got a few questions. The most important question on my mind is - how much weight should I realistically be expecting to lose? I've heard everything from 80 pounds to 150. I'm 17 and in good health..I have an okay metabolism, despite weighing 290. ( makes me ill just to say that) But anyways, if anyone can pin a roundabout number on this, it would be a big help.

Hi Brandy! All I can do is tell you of my experience so far. Remember, everyone is different. I am really surprised to hear you are having surgery at such a young age but by your weight I can tell this has been a major struggle for you. Also, at your age you will definitely bounce back with no problems. I have struggled with my weight since my early 20's but, I am now 48. My only regret is that I did not have surgery 10 years ago. I had my surgery on May 4, 04. I weighed 283 on the day before surgery. To date I have lost 41 lbs. What is funny is that for 3 weeks I lost only 2lbs per week but last week I lost 5. Go figure. I am telling you this because everyone of us are totally loosing in a different way. At your age and your weight it would not surprise me if you lost well over 100lbs. Brandy, it really takes a good 2 months before you feel like you did not even go through all that. But, boy is it worth it! It is a wonderful adventure and I would do it over again in a heartbeat. Girl, when that weight starts coming off you will feel incredible. Please keep us posted and I know you will do wonderful!!! A wls friend in Texas, Bye Brenda

Thank you so much for taking your time to answer & showing your support!! Your response has been very helpful...and I'll definitely keep my progress posted. Thanks again.

Hello Brandy, My name is Debbie. I can't believe you are only 17 and planing on having the surgery. I don't nessasarly think it is a bad thing just supprised. I have a 16 year old son who is badly over weight. He is 378 pound. He was 398 about 4 weeks ago. I talked to him about the surgery and he said NO WAY! When I asked him why not? He said mom I saw how much pain you were in and there is no way I'm going to do that. I'm watching what he eats and he is doing better but i know he is going down the same road I did. I sure wish he would have the surgery. But anyway, I'm 9-1/2 months out and I've lost 188 pounds. I was 354 when I had surgery. I was in a size 28 plus size pants and a size 4x-5x shirts. I now wear a size 8 pants and a size med shirt. I want to wish you great Sucsses on your journey. The surgeon will give you a tool, What you do with it is up to you. Hugs Debbie Moya Dr. Baker 9/22/03 354/165/147

Thank you for sharing, Debbie. Yeah, 17 is young to make a life-changing decision such as this...but I've always been mature for my age and am pretty intelligent, so I've made sure to read up carefully on the procedure and all the risks involved. I'm sure it isn't going to be a picnic for me, but I have great support from my friends and family. I think that the emotional and physical pain from the surgery will be far surpassed by the pain I've endured over the years, being my size. Your weight loss is an inspiration to me...I hope I'm able to lose as much as you! Thanks for the help- Brandy