Body image

Hi everyone, I was talking to my "angel" Elissa Hart yesterday about this -- who was a big help "thanks, Elissa!" -- but I wanted to get the group's experiences on this too. I've been taking photos to document my progress since I had my surgery in August. So far I've lost 82 pounds. I just got the film developed and had a chance to see the pics. I was dissapointed with what I saw. I didn't see much of a difference -- maybe a little less puffy but not anything dramatic! I know that I am losing by the scale, and that I am in smaller clothing sizes and that other people are noticing it but.... Does/did anyone else have the same experience? It's not sending me running for the Oreo's :>) but I am discouraged! Is it "normal"???? Thanks, Kit

Hi there, I'm struggling with the same issues. I'm now wearing a size 4 pants and small /medium shirts. When I look in the mirror, I see a size 18. I officially weigh half of what I did when I started this process and get extremely discouraged with what I see. The compliments are rolling in, but I find myself thinking "don't they see what I see". Hang in there. It does take a long time to "get the picture". I've discussed this with a counselor and she said it is perfectly normal. I've been very busy with work, personal training, etc. I found that I need some good old "me" time. Go shopping, grab an old pair of pants or old shirt and hold them up against the new clothes. Give your mind a "kickstart". Keep reminding yourself of your accomplishments and where you were this time last year. Best wishes, Deb

Yes it is normal.... Really weird but yes normal. I'm almost 2 1/2 years out and I still feel very large. Even though the pics tell a different story. The mental part of it is so hard to overcome. But I do see as time passes I am learning to see my "new" self. It takes time... Size 28 down to an 8 Simply Amazing!!!!

Wow, I am so glad you brought that up, I am going through the same thing. People at work see it, my family see it, I had surgery Oct 6, and take a picture on the 6th of every month. I have lost 60 pounds and went from a size 26 to a size 20. I just can't see too much of a change except in my face. I know it is coming off, but I still feel very large. Thanks again for bringing that up, now I know I am among friends, and we are all feeling the same way. Take care Dana

Yeah feeling the same way. I mean in some physical aspect there are big differences...but to just look in the mirror...its hard to see. I see it better with pictures...but still see me as huge! I guess it will take us a while to get use to things. Elizabeth M