Question:
Does anyone know the statistical data on how long post-ops keep their weight off?

I just recently saw a nutritonist as part of my pre-op testing. She spent alot of time telling me the down side of this surgery. She told me that few people maintain their weight loss to 10 years or longer. I am confused. Are there any 10+ post-ops out there who have maintained their weight loss? Was she implying that post-ops eventually lose their control over food and return to old ways? Please feel free to email me at [email protected]    — Karen K. (posted on March 23, 2001)

March 23, 2001
At my support group meeting, there was a lady there that had the RNY done 25 years ago and she was doing just fine.
   — Virginia N.

March 23, 2001
Karen - GREAT name...lol! Anyway, my bestfriend (also a Karen) had surgery 17 years ago...and weights 145 from 265...over the years, she has fluctuated up and down 15 pounds...which anyone could do!! Good Luck, Karan
   — chance2lv

March 23, 2001
It is possible to gain your weight back, i know of a lot of people that have done that including myself. What you have to remember is that this surgery is a tool, not a cure. You really have to change you habits forever. Not saying that you can't enjoy stuff later on, at goal weight, but you must be able to control it. as you already know it's not easy. best of luck.
   — Lisa B.

March 23, 2001
What surgery is she talking about...can make a difference.
   — Debora H.

February 20, 2002
The person I learned so much about gastric bypass from, (and finally am going to have it done myself) had the surgery at least 15yrs ago and is still maintaining her weight loss. She has gone alittle up and down over the years but not that much, and started around 300lbs. before surgery.If you work the program and eat well balanced food and work on the habits that make us fat in the first place, like ya'll say, the surgery is a tool, and what a great tool it is too !!
   — Jean B.

August 9, 2004
I had surgery in May of 2000 and lost 168, started out at 363. I have gained back 65 of those pounds. I had RNY with a transected stomach. I am so afraid now of gaining more that I am sooooo depressed. Those old habits do come back after awhile. The first 3 years are a breeze and then you can eat anything and it becomes so scary. I am losing control again and that only helps to prompt me to eat. I can't eat a gigantic meal like before but I can eat more often. Also, will be honest, depression is bothering me so bad that now I am drinking and the extra calories from that are only adding to the problem. It's like I know what's wrong but can't fix it. I have been to a psychologist to work thru this, she actually runs the eating disorder clinic at the university, and am still having gigantic problems. Please use those first 3 years for all they are worth and realize that after that it will become difficult again. Some people don't have a problem, but I do. Best of luck and the surgery is still worth it.
   — Carolyn S.