Body Image Depression

I haven't been on OH for a while (needed a break). But, I am turning to you all for a little help or maybe just an ear to lend.

I am doing really well with my band. I was banded on March 1st and  am down 41 pounds which I am really excited about :) My problem is I can't stand what I am seeing in the mirror. I am melting and even though I have a long way to go (100 pounds) I am already hating the way my skin is "hanging". I was not expecting these emotions, they kinda just crept up on me. I really get depressed sometimes, and it's starting to worry me.

I am sure I am not the only one this has happened to, any pointers to help me out of this funk?

I am working out (lots of cardio) but I will admit I need to do some arm and ab toning.

I'm sorta doing the same thing. I have lost over 70 since surgery but about 150 in a year. I still have over 100 to go but the skin is bothering me but I also have a huge umbilical hernia that is making it impossible for clothes to fit properly. Also I use to be told how young I look but now it looks like I have aged 10 years because my face is saggy. I have no advice to give I have days where I take it rough but then I realize all the positives I'm able to get around so much better. I'm able to keep up with my 2 year old daughter and I can fit in just about every chair in any Dr's office don't have to worry about it having arms and me not fitting. So maybe make a list of what is better or getting better! It's a big adjustment takes a while to wrap your head around it!

Add some weight lifting to the cardio.. it will help.  You will build muscle (and you might even see the scale go up .. don't panic at that.. while muscle gain may make the scale reading increase, muscle tissue takes up less room than fat).

Loose skin over toned muscle looks MUCH better than loose skin over flabby muscle.

And generally women don't have enough testosterone to make them bulk up.  If you do start getting more muscle in certain areas than you like.. use less weight and more repetitions.  :)

I take body pump classes and love them.  Group Power is a very similar class.  Or hire a trainer for a few weeks to teach you how to work on your own.

Hope this helps.

 jrspriggs, 
I know exactly how you feel!  I have lost 92 lbs since my surgery almost a year ago, and I have loose skin inside my upper arms, on my thighs, my tummy, and under my chin.   The very worst part is my seflated breasts!  I lift weights 3 times a week and I do pilates 2 times a week.  I noticed that lifting helps more than cardio... I highly recommend the body pump class.  I also started some different kinds of skin care, as my face is a little saggy.  I started a savings account so that I can slowly put my body back to rights.  For some it might now be an option, but I will have surgery to get rid of all the sagging skin.  Good luck... and feel good about the fact that you are healthier now.