Question:
Had a check-up and my Physician's Assistant said it would be tough ....

I have lost 68 lbs. in 4 months, and have around 60-70 to go. She said it will be difficult for me to get to my goal. I am 5'8 and starting BMI was 43, start weight around 288. I am down to 220 now. Had LAP RNY on 9/21/01. Need encouragement, thanks!    — Melissa B. (posted on January 24, 2002)

January 23, 2002
Hi - I think I would trust your surgeon's thoughts on your loss much more than a P.A.! I imagine your P.A. is not fully knowledgeable on how this surgery works. Keep doing what your surgeon suggests and you'll be fine!
   — Tracie B.

January 24, 2002
I have always heard that you loose 1/2 of your weight in the 1st 6 months. Plus you still have 8-14 more months to loose. I would not be discouraged, sounds like you are doing really well. You will get there.
   — Sue B.

January 24, 2002
Your P.A. hasn't read the studies which show that weight loss is achieved in the first 18-24 months. You have a long time left to lose weight.
   — [Anonymous]

January 24, 2002
Hi Melissa. First of all, you are doing great! Secondly- there is a reason why the PA is a PA and not a surgeon! Sounds like she doesn't know what she is talking about! I agree with the others- trust your surgeon first. The window of weight loss is approx 18 months. Most do lose 50% of their excess weight in six months, but everyone is different. I am one year post op and have lost 136lbs. I am still losing. Don't let the PA discourage you- talk with your surgeon- and others who have had the surgery. Good luck!
   — Cindy K.

January 24, 2002
Statistics show that those with a lower BMI have a better chance of reaching the "ideal" weight according to the charts. Unless you told her something you didn't tell us (like sabatoge behavior) then she is wrong. Bottom line, it is up to you and how you use your tool.
   — blank first name B.

January 24, 2002
I am so relieved that you guys think it is still possible for me to get down to 150. In response to the below question regarding sabatage behavior, no, in fact, she said to keep doing what I was doing because it sounded like I was doing everything right. Thanks, you guys : )
   — Melissa B.