Question:
What to do when gaing the weight back?

I had my surgery Dec 4th of 2001, So I am a little over 2 years out. I had the rouen y gastric bypass. I started at 337, the lowest I got to was 194. When I weighed myself on Nov 17th I weighed 203. I weighed myself last night and it was 221. Nothing is wrong with the scale. It's so depressing because I don't want to be heavy again. I have no limitations to what I can eat. I can eat a whole king size candy bar and not fell full or sick. I had talked to my clinic cordinater on the computer. she had told me that If I want to make an appointment with the doctor go ahead. I want to but I'm scared. He will be very dissapointed in me. I hope everything in me is ok. I don't feel a sense of fullnes at all. I know this surgery is a tool and I have to controle it. The more I try the more depressing it gets. Nothing seems to be working. Do you people think I should go see my doc? I don't even know what to say to him. If anyone has any suggestions about this please tell me. I need lots of help. thanks so much    — Missy S. (posted on January 14, 2004)

January 13, 2004
Just remember like you said, "this surgery is a tool" that helps us control our eating habits. Try going back on a high protien diet and increase the water and exercise. This will help kick in the weight loss again for sure. I am eight months out and have lost 103 pounds. Sometimes the weight loss slows down, but I increase the water and excercise and this helps jump start the weight loss again. Don't beat yourself up so much. You have been very brave to have had this surgery. You will be fine.
   — Gene F.

January 13, 2004
Yes, I do think you should see your doctor. You are not alone in this battle and his program should include support for you since, in my opinion, your surgeon is also responsible for your success. You want to make sure there is nothing wrong with your tool. If that checks out fine, then you might want to get some councelling for why you are making the food choices that you are. Take care of this now before it gets worse. I wish you the best.
   — Yolanda J.

January 13, 2004
<b>Hi, I read your post.I say save your money. What can the doctor say that you don't already know. accept the wrong you have been doing, then go back to basics. get mad, get determined. get a attitude to loss the gained lbs. and when you do loss them. always remember that when a person reach their goal. It is not the end to your wt problem. you have to always stay focus and watch what you eat. You will have to watch what you eat the rest of your life. Good Luck hang in there.</b>
   — Naes Wls J.

January 13, 2004
This is just my opinion, but if I were you, I would go back to my surgeon just to make sure there is nothing wrong with my tool. If you are not transected, then you could have a staple line disruption, which would be a reason why you can eat more. Go back, have everything checked out. Or, it could also be your stoma has stretched. Anyway, let us know how it goes.--Shelly
   — Shel E.

January 13, 2004
i take issue with nadine's post because you could have a staple line disruption or other mechanical failure that is not your fault. Go to the surgeon who did your surgery and tell him your concerns. he can test you for these things. THEN if nothing is wrong, follow Nadines advice.
   — Delores S.

January 13, 2004
You know what you've been doing wrong in your heart. I'd guess it has something to do with the whole candy bar you mention. Will the doctor be able to fix this for you? Not unless it's a mechanical failure, but he may be the kick in the butt you need. You shouldn't be afraid of your doctor. He's there to help. (on a technical note- that's a lot of Wt in a short time- so you MAY have a mechanical failure to be discovered) I'd say if there is no failure, you need to see a nutritionist and get this under control. And, it wouldn't be a bad idea to go see a therapist about why you have this self defeating behavior and how to change it. The first step to making a change is recognizing that you need to make one. Sounds like you may be on your way to that decision. Get yourself back to basics and work on getting whatever support you need to make better food/exercise decisions. Good luck to you. Now, go make an appt to see your Dcotor!
   — LMCLILLY

January 14, 2004
I know how you feel. I gained 12# in a week and im scared that's not all im going to gain back. Like you, I can also scarf down a candy bar, 2 pieces of pizza, just about a bag of chips, a 4-6 piece chicken nugget and feel fine. Look at my new choices too, so bad bad bad!!!! I'm doing this alone, so im trying to fix this on my own, I am doing better, but now it's hard b/c im craving the sugar. I have not called my Doctor, I don't want to get yelled at lol. I am 16mo post-op open rny, I did hit goal and went back up 267/134/146 you can e-mail me anytime [email protected] Good luck :o)
   — Sandy M.

January 14, 2004
If you don't have a sence of fullness I'd say something is wrong with the surgery. Heck if I over eat I hurt bad and mucus (foam) comes up my throat.
   — Danmark

January 14, 2004
I would say see your surgeon. Hopefully your surgeon os more understanding than mine! I had the vertical banding 7 years ago and have since gained 50 pounds! He insists that I eat to much? I if the procedure is working properly there is know way this cah happen without you feeling overly full and vomiting. I dont get that feeling anymore. So I have now decided to seek advice from someone else and now preparing to have the RNY conversion which is more effective. You may havr to go in and have the revision or review your eating habits and possibly add more exercise to your routine. Good Luck!! Alison Grayson
   — alison G.

January 14, 2004
Not to discourage anyone. Someone mentioned that they are seeking info to convert to an RNY. Let me tell you I had an Open RNY Feb 2002. I never made it to goal. Did go from 370 to 247 and since then back up to around 260 which is where I stay up and down a few lbs. I very rarely feel completely full and I can eat within an hour of having had a meal. I seem to gradually be increasing the size of my meals too. I am tall 6' but would have liked to have gotten down close to 200 lbs. I dont know what to do, I cant control my bad eating habits, never could before this surgery and honestly was not prepared for things to be this bad afterwards. I had the impression that the surgery itself would lend itself to helping me with my problem but it did not. I am not a dumper. I only get mild tummy cramps with sweets and things like cookies or chips I can munch on forever. I am afraid the weight gain will increase over time for me too.
   — SARose61

January 14, 2004
Hi to everyone on here. I can certainly relate to what you are saying about being able to eat more. I had my surgery done laproscopically last Feb. 14, 2003. I am almost a year out and not even down 100 lbs. yet- and this pisses the hell out of me!!! I am trying my hardest, but I guess not hard enough. I walk alot and exercise-- but my fiancee and I need to join a gym. Money is tight now, in between jobs, on disability. It pisses me off so much sometimes that I realize that pre-op I was 352, and now I am in a standstill for the past few months. I was 276 lbs. at my last check up in Nov. I had lost a total of 76 lbs. in 9 mos. I am pissed. My surgeon told me that I am doing good, just to work on some things. I am 31 yrs. old turning 32 in a few weeks. I am getting married on May 15, 2004 to the man who fell in love with me at my heaviest. I am very lucky and happy with him, but I am pissed off with myself for not losing quicker. I am going with my mom this coming Monday to try on Wedding gowns. I have lost sizes, and inches. When I was weighed in at my surgeon in November, I had only lost 9 lbs. from the last apptmt. 3 mths before. My surgeon first thought that the scale was wrong when the nurse had weighed me. He said I look alot less than what the scale said, but he re-assured me that I can still lose inches when not pounds. I can relate to what many of you are saying in here. I wish my stomach was as small as it was at the beginning and that I could get full so quickly-- but I am having that trouble too. Sometimes it amazes me that I am able to eat more than I think I can. Like several crackers in a sitting, and or chocolate. Last night we had company over and celebrated a friend's birthday with cake, ice cream, cookies, chips etc. I ate some stuff, but no where near the pigging out that I was able to do pre-op. I paid the price from what I ate last night because from 2am till just about a half hour ago, I have been having severe diarreah and cramping. I wish I could say I am like those of you out there who "use your tool" very well--- and have no problems whatsoever and always get full very quickly-- but I don't! I am trying. My fiancee and I don't have a car now, so we do alot more walking than most people who have a car do, so this is in our favor. We are going to get a car after we get married. We depend on busses and cabs. I just find it very upsetting, and yes-- I do get Jealous that when I hear that 3 friends' of mine who had the surgery; 1 before me and she started out at exactly 100 lbs less than me-- she is at her goal now. The other 2 friends' had their surgery after me and weighed less than me pre-op. one of them has lost 110 lbs. and is 4"11 and is at her goal. The other friend has lost 145 lbs. since the end of last Feb. So yes--- I AM JEALOUS A LITTLE BIT! I weighed more than all 3 of these friends'. One of whom is only a pen-pal. But then I find out that the 2 that had the surgery after me, had severe complications. My penpal friend who had her surgery done open the end of last Feb, had alot of trouble eating for the first 4 mths. and to this day-- she still has trouble getting food down. So-- this can explain that. I am like many people. I get jealous as well. But-- one would think that the heavier you are, the quicker you lose it. It doesn't work that way-- OBVIOUSLY! In my case it hasn't! I eat most of my protein each day and try to eat less carbs. Until this past September I had been on Clonodine for high blood pressure but I was taken off of it and my blood pressure is perfect now. My surgeon, primary, and psychiatrist all told me that the high blood pressure medicine could have slowed my weight loss down and it has happened to others. I am not making excuses, I am telling it like it is. I journal and write down my food as much as possible. I even read both of Carnie Wilson's books-- as I am sure many of you have. The most recent "I'm Still Hungry" is a great book! Before I had the surgery I thought that my weight would just slide off. But--- apparently in my case it doesn't work this way. Everyone is different. I am just tired of hearing about friends and aquaintances who started out less than me and lose it quicker. Why am I wanting to eat more than I should? For awhile like a month ago I was constantly craving chocolate candy-- like hershey kisses. Now my cravings have turned to crackers and chips which isn't much better at all. I know that I am defeating the whole purpose of having had my surgery--- but it has been the hardest thing in my life that I have had to do. Post-op (in my opinion) is the hardest thing in my life I have ever had to do and go through. By 6 mos. out I was hoping I'd be down 100 lbs. Boy- was I dreaming! I had my surgery at Florida Medical Center--- just to let any of you know if you are wondering. I often get asked by people if the stomach stretches-- and from reading articles and about Carnie Wilson-- and by asking the surgeon-- it seems to stretch to about the size of a lemon or something. But if it's that small, than how in the world am I able to eat a few slices of pizza at once? Or several crackers and chips at once??? I stopped going to the support groups because I was tired of all of the constand debating between those who have reached their goal and constantly preach to others as if they are bragging and know everything that there is to know. My fiancee had gone with me and we just got tired of going. Anyway, we might go back as it may do some good. I never spoke out and asked questions. It was always those who are near or at their goal who think they know everything-- and sorry to say-- but that is the truth. If I come across angry, jealous, or upset--- I AM! I am venting. I think this may only be my second post on this board, but I am glad to see that I'm not alone in feeling the way I do. I wanted to be able to wear a regular size wedding gown at my wedding in May-- but I am DREAMING!!!! I wear a size 18/20 Just My Size stretch jeans now---- but it's stretch. I can wear a 2x top. It all depends on the cut of clothes. I am in a 46 DD bra; before the surgery I had to go to a specialty store for bras and clothes. I was lucky if I fit into a 30/32 size at the AVENUE clothes for women. That is their largest. I get complemented all the time from my fiancee, family and friends that I look good---and this makes me feel good--- but by now-- I wish I would have lost more weight and that is making me angry! I started seeing a therapist and have to go back. Alot of this wanting to eat is psychological. My mind wants the food and my stomach doesn't. My problem is also that I don't eat 5 small meals a day like I am urged to do so. I don't eat enough maybe. I eat alot of cheese for my protein. I told my surgeon and nurse that I am getting all of my protein in-- with regular food and not shakes or protein bars and they said it's fine. I know that I am guilty for alot of things that I could be doing better to utilize "my tool" the right way-- but it is very hard!!!!! I knew that when I went in for the surgery that it would be hard, but never thought it would be this hard. I want to lose at least another 100 lbs. if not more. I am 5"5. My last weigh in was 276 in November-- a few months ago. A far cry from 352 lbs, but not enough down yet!!! I do get happy when people see me who haven't in awhile, and then they have to do a double take. Those compliments surely make me feel good. I never understood that if the stomach is so small-- and yes there are times that I get really full very quickly- and then there are other times that it amazes me how much I can eat in a sitting-- like crackers that dissolve so quickly. I am craving alot of the WRONG BAD FOODS!!! I am not perfect and need to change. I read all of your posts on here and those of you who are in the same boat as me with being able to eat more--- I am glad that I am not alone. I want to change this of course. Many good things have happened since my surgery. My sleep apnea--gone- high blood pressure- gone-- high cholesterol-- gone!!!! But I want more pounds to be GONE FOR GOOD!!!! I envy those of you who have gotten to your goal and had no problems doing so. I really do. I congratulate all of you. I am just a person who is struggling big time here and it is very upsetting. Plus- I am recieve disability- SSDI-- and am in the process of finding a new part time job since not working now. I have more time on my hands also which doesn't help. I also love to cook, and bake cookies- which I do confess- I have baked many things since my surgery. If we have company, and or are invited somewhere, then I like to bake cookies or cake and bring it, but I know by doing this, I am also sabatoging myself but I continue to make these mistakes and I need help. Cooking and baking has always been therapy. Is there anyone else out there who also loves to bake like I do? I am sorry that this has been such a long posting, but I am venting now. I am not PMS, but feel like I am!!!! I am going to have to call my surgeon's office later. I keep thinking that my stomach stretched too much. But sometimes I don't think it did. There are times when I get full after a few bites, but then there are those times when I can eat so much and it amazes me!!!! HELP!!!! Bonnie in Florida. [email protected]
   — Bonnie R.

January 14, 2004
Hi Missy. I agree with the others and have your mechanics checked out. I am also a little over 2 yrs out and have gained back 10lbs and its freaking me out. I also don't get that 'full' feeling very often anymore. I too can eat a couple pieces of pizza at one time without a problem. So, I have gone back to basics. I am writing everything down that goes in my mouth (if that isn't an eye opener, I dont know what is!), upping my protien, cutting carbs as much as possible and upping water and exercise. I quit exercising after my plastic surgery in March 03 but have now started back up again. I've been doing all this for over 2 weeks and the scale hasn't budged. I'm doing everything right! I'm also thinking of callng my Dr. just to make sure everything is in working order just so I can get that 'doubt' out of my head. Just wanted to let you know that you are not alone in this.
   — Kris T.

January 14, 2004
Are you getting 3 hours of exercise in a week? Track on fitday. That should keep your calories low. I wouldn't worry about your Dr. being diappointed. I heard a lot of people hit a low number then bounce back up 20-30 lbs.
   — mrsmyranow

January 14, 2004
I am almost a year out. Had the lap RNY on 2/14/03. I have started journaling my daily foods down and carry it with me wherever I go. I hear that fitday.com is good also. My surgeon suggested that. But-- I don't have the luxury of a laptop, so I feel it's much easier to bring my journal with me and write my food down when I eat it. I guess I may check out fitday.com as well and then just add everything that I write down into there. For me-- it just seems easier to write everything down. I have had alot of slip ups since the holidays and haven't been writing down like I should, so I need to get back on track. Pre-op I was 352 lbs. I am 5"5. My last check up in Nov. I was 276. I say "ONLY" down 76 lbs, but it's also better than gaining 76 lbs. I know that if I didn't have this surgery, I'd be dead in 10 yrs. or less. I am having alot of problems, I welcome any and all constructive and helpful advice. Anyone else out there almost a yr. post-op and struggling?
   — Bonnie R.

January 14, 2004
I had my RNY on 9/9/02. I lost 175 pounds and am at my goal weight of 130 (I'm 5'7"). From the beginning, I have watched my calorie intake. I stay away from fat and sugar, and modify what I'm eating to stay on track. If I want pizza, I do not eat the entire piece, I just eat the top, after blotting off the grease. I only eat chocolate if it is sugar-free. If I want a candy bar, I have a protein bar instead. I walk a lot and I drink a lot of water. Unfortunately, it is more difficult for some people than others - I don't know why. I agree with the posters who suggest you write down what you are eating - you may be eating a lot more than you think. Also, go see your doctor if you think it will help you get back on track. Good luck
   — Ann H.

January 14, 2004
I had my RNY on 11/5/01. I find that I will gain and lose the same 5 pounds. You MUST keep a close eye on your weight. It's very easy to slip back into old habits. You MUST watch your calorie intake. You MUST exercise. This is the ONLY way of keeping the weight off for good. People assume that once you have this surgery that you NEVER struggle with weight issues again. WRONG!!! You will fight this battle for the rest of your life.
   — Patty H.

January 15, 2004
If you are ashame to go to your doctor (and you should not be) - why not contact a nutritionist - before things get out of hand. Usually it was our own insecurities that assisted in our prior obesity in the first place. Take control - which you are already doing by sharing this with us (you did not have to) - I would re-examine the foods I have in my home - if you live alone get rid of those things that are "not good" to your initial goals. If you have a family ask them to assist you in getting back on track - also I feel everyone needs therapy - just because its such a screwed world - and find out if there is an underlying reason besides being hungry that you are gaining. Good Luck - I think you can do it - what do you think? And finally do see your doctor - after all we are only human subject to human conditions
   — Anna M.

Click Here to Return