Weight loss post op.

I am wondering what I can expect as far as weight loss after my RNY surgery. I am almost 62 years old, been overweight since I am about 12 years old.  I am 5` 9`` tall and my weight now as of today is 255.4 pounds. I am now on the Optifast since last Friday, on February 1, I weighed in at 263.  I will be getting my surgery on March 18th. Now I know that older people loss weight a lot slower than younger ladies and men. Is there anyone on this site, who is about my age and can you tell me what I can expect as far as weight loss. I have 125 lbs to get to my goal weight. Thanks

The doctors do not set weight goals in pounds, but in percentage of excess weight.  Ask your surgeon what your goals are for each appointment, in percentage. 

Then, keep in mind, if you follow the dietary guidelines, and increase your exercise, you will lose the weight.  They should get you out of bed walking within four hours of post-op, mainly to prevent clotting.  But, that is a great way to begin your exercise program.  Increase little by little, till you are cleared for more strenuous exercise, then go and keep pushing your cardio time up, and keep an eye on your food.  My nutritionist at my hospital had me keep a food diary, which I need to get back to.  Track your protein and water intake daily. 

Will there be a support group you can meet with on a regular basis?  That would be a great way to get your questions answered, in addition to us here.

You will be fine if you listen to your surgeon and nutritionist.

Hugs,
Trish

I willl echo everything Trish has said. Also, please don't get too hung up over the timeline of your weight loss. Many people get really stuck on the idea of losing ALL their desired weight within a year. While most of your weight loss will occur within that first year, you can continue to lose. Take advantage of your early weeks and months to learn learn learn new habits that work with your pouch, to build exercise into your life (and yes, you may even like it), and to enjoy the journey!

And oh by the way, I'm not sure that age has a lot of bearing on the rate of weight loss post op. The big difference I have seen is that those with more to lose tend to lose faster than those of us who are "lilghtweights." If you read various forums you will see people's losses all over the map. Do not compare yourself to others - this is YOUR path, no one else's.

You got some good advice from ladies I happen to know personally, all I will add is this, take pictures monthly, front/side view, try to take them in front of a white background and preferrably in the same place, do it the morning of your surgery and each month thereafter.  Also take measurements the same way, as the scale is not something that necessarily operates in a manner that tells the whole story.  Your clothing, photos and measurements will be the real indicator of what is happening. 

Yes, the weightloss can be slower for those of us in the golden years, but that has more to do with what we've done to our metabolisms from years of trying to lose weight, as well as the metabolisms slowing down as we age, as well as being a lightweight, and for many, the inability to be very active because of aches and pains, so find a way to get in physical activity daily, get into the habit of logging your food, so that as you achieve goals, you will be able to maintain them in the long run. 

Wishing you the best as you travel the road towards healthy and hopefully, more active living.

Laureen

Thanks very much to everyone *****plied. The more I know the better it getsfor me since I get very stressed.  Thanks again everyone.