Question:
Is this normal post-op?

Hi, I'm 5 days post op. Still on clear liquids.(2 more days and I can go to FUll liquids YEA!!!!) I've been getting on the scale like every hour or so. I had gained 4 pounds coming out of the hospital(282), I kind of expected that do to fluids and meds and stuff. Now it looks like I've lost that 4lbs and another 4lbs.. so a total of 8lbs (274)down since I came home. Am I on a normal road here? Is this how quick it starts? I hope I dont sound stupid, I'm just not too sure on what to expect as far as weight loss right off. Thanks :-) (LAp-RNY)    — KellyJeanB (posted on May 20, 2003)

May 19, 2003
Kelli, There really isn't a "normal". We all lose at different rates. Just be pleased with what you get. I didn't weigh til I was 12 days post-op and I had lost 30 pounds. Now, I know a lot of that was from fluid retention, but it was that much weight that wasn't on my body. Congratulations on the great start.
   — Patty_Butler

May 20, 2003
<font color="007000" face="tahoma">Kelly, I am almost 4 weeks post op. I would think your start is pretty good! One word of caution...Getting on the scale every hour will DRIVE YOU NUTTS!! I personally don't have a scale in my house, specifically for that reason! You will lose the weight, you dont need to worry about that. And, if you weight a while, say only weigh once a week, think of how surprised and happy you will be when you see that new number! <P>Good Luck! </font>
   — Wendy D P.

May 20, 2003
I don't own a scale and don't intend to get one until I hit goal. And then will keep a close eye on my weight. I constantly hear people that are upset when they hit plateaus. I don't want anything to depress me and I can tell by my clothes that I am losing rapidly. I know all plateaus will pass, so why worry. I get weighed in at the Docs, and that is enough for me.
   — Gail O.

May 20, 2003
Patti is right, we all lose differently. There is no "normal". You can take the same height and weight person who had surgery on the same day and eat the same diet and they will lose differently. FACT. Stay off the scale as much as you are doing-your weight will fluctuate up and down in the same day, so you don't want to drive yourself nuts. Just stick to the rules on what you can eat, exercise when you can, drink tons of fluids, when you get to solid foods, don't drink with or right after meals, tons of protein and enjoy the journey!
   — Cindy R.