What’s The Average Monthly Weight Loss After Gastric Sleeve?
What is gastric sleeve surgery? And how quickly do you lose weight after a gastric sleeve procedure?
Gastric sleeve surgery is a laparoscopic feature that removes 70% to 80% of the stomach. What’s left behind looks like a tube, a stomach pouch, or a “sleeve,” in part of the stomach.
This is a very effective weight-loss procedure and creates hormonal changes in the body that curb hunger. The hormonal changes will last for about a year. The small tube of the stomach begins to limit the amount of food the body takes in.
This leads us to some additional — and oft-asked — questions: How quickly do you lose weight after gastric sleeve? What’s the average monthly weight loss after gastric sleeve?
To answer these questions and the one we posed at the top of the piece — How quickly do you lose weight after a gastric sleeve procedure? — we need to take a deeper look into the subject.
Let’s do that now, shall we?
How much weight can you lose from gastric sleeve surgery?
As we’ve suggested, patients often ask about how much weight they can lose with gastric sleeve surgery. It’s important to note that it varies from patient to patient. Some patients can expect to lose about 25% to 60% of their excess fat.
However, there are factors that impact how much you lose, including diet and exercise, lifestyle, and how committed you are to changing old habits that need to be broken.
During the first month, patients can expect an average weight loss of up to 25% of their excess weight.
After three months, the percentage of overall excess loss can reach up to 40%. That number increases to 60% after six months.
After 12 months, up to 80% of the excess weight is lost. A laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy had the most consistent long-term weight loss years after surgery.
Losing Weight and Keeping it Off
Remember, the amount of weight loss in gastric sleeve patients depends totally on the person. After any bariatric surgery, you will need to be patient and follow a strict diet plan in tandem with staying active.
Some other things to keep in mind. As you work your way back to a healthy weight, you may at some point post-op begin to exercise and participate in weight training. Since you’ll be building up more muscle at that point, you may actually gain weight for a time.
This is a good place for a reminder that weight is more than just a number; it’s a range, one which may or may not correlate to overall health.
The important thing is to stay in regular contact with your health care team at WeightWise so that we can monitor your progress and make adjustments as necessary based on our evaluations and recommendations.
In fact, our approach to weight management only begins at the surgical stage. What we’ve found through the years is that the best approach is a holistic one that takes into account multiple factors regarding a person’s life, diet, exercise regimen, medications, and more.
Nutrition Options
Speaking of diet and nutrition, WeightWise makes it easy to get the nutrients you need. In particular, we’ve found that protein supplements are an effective and appropriate addition to your post-surgery diet.
Consider high-quality Power Crunch Protein Bars. These are bariatric-friendly products. Each bar contains whey protein and they come in a variety of flavors.
You might also try One Bars. These come loaded with 20 grams of protein and are offered in lots of fun flavors.
We can also point you in the right direction when it comes to protein drinks and protein shakes.
Here are three additional tips on losing the weight and keeping it off after gastric sleeve surgery:
- Eliminating carbs: carbohydrates poison the fat-burning mechanism and create hunger. This will make you want to eat more, and the fat will have a harder time disappearing!
- Drink the right thing: Say goodbye to sugary, carbonated drinks. Post-surgery, you will need to drink at least 96 ounces of fluid each day. This should be fluid that has no caffeine, carbonation, and contains less than 15 calories per 8 ounces. Water is best!
- Keep moving: Staying active is key to losing weight and keeping it off. After surgery, talk to your doctor about a fitness plan. You will need to take it easy immediately after surgery, but once you are healed up, you should be launching into a mild exercise plan.
Is Gastric Sleeve Right For You?
Gastric sleeve remains a popular option for those seeking weight-loss surgery. As we’ve seen, it can contribute significantly to post-op weight loss. Along with WeightWise’s regimen of follow-up care, it’s also a terrific starting point for many patients struggling with obesity.
As many of you know, obesity in and of itself is a debilitating disease. It can take years off one’s life, and those years can be filled with fatigue, heartburn, low energy, poor sleep, and so much more.
Obesity is implicated in a number of health-related issues, too. These include high blood pressure, sleep apnea, depression, elevated cholesterol levels, and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes, stroke, and heart disease.
The good news is that there are good solutions! Consider a few more statistics. As we write on our Benefits and Risks page, bariatric surgery patients achieve significant survival advantages when compared to the best nonsurgical management of their obesity-related health problems.
For example, multiple studies have confirmed that bariatric surgery patients represent upwards of 89% fewer deaths over a five-year to 25-year period when compared with nonsurgical groups.
What’s more, dozens of morbid obesity-related diseases are either resolved completely or significantly improved post-op when weight loss is maintained. In the experience of many surgeons and their patients, several diseases can show resolution as early as post op day No. 1!
That’s certainly something to look forward to.
Complications and Long-Term Prognosis
There’s no doubt that losing weight is the key to achieving optimal health, wellness, and wellbeing. The decision that each patient faces is: How best to achieve those goals with weight-loss surgery?
More specifically, many patients who research these surgeries on their own or in consultation with their health-care providers come to the conclusion that a gastric sleeve is the way to go.
We must keep in mind that, as with all surgeries, there are benefits and risks to be considered before opting for bariatric surgery. However, complications are rare as is the mortality rate.
We’ve found that about 70% of patients lose half their excess weight and keep it off for at least 10 years. So, in addition to losing weight quickly after gastric sleeve, adjustable gastric band, Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery, or another surgical procedure, patients tend to keep it off.
Undergoing weight loss surgery is a time for you to rethink your life and take hold of it! Find someone or a group of people that will help be an encouragement for you during this time. Support during your new weight loss journey is one of the key ways to stay successful.
Our highly trained team of bariatric surgeons and other health care professionals at WeightWise understands that you might feel overwhelmed at starting this new lifestyle. Contact us today for information on how you can get started or learn if gastric sleeve surgery is right for you.
I had this surgery 18 months ago I lost 70pounds and now have gained 15back I eat healthy watch my portions and workout 6days a week with heavy cardio and weights why is my weight going up it’s like I can’t loose it anymore. Can I get the surgery redone
Muscle weighs more than fat. So if you are eating healthy still and exercising you may not see the numbers on the scale go down for a little while as you are building muscle mass.
It’s been 2 months and my weight goes up and down. I have lost 37 pounds but feel like it should be more. Can’t exercise but 2 days out of a week because of my ankle but eating right I do and eat less. It gets very discouraging when I weight in. Can you tell me what I am doing wrong.
Good Morning Beverly! I would have contact your dietitian regarding this question. That way they can do a full evaluation and provide the appropriate recommendations based off your individual situation.
What was your starting weight please?
Mine was 14stone, im a week over procedure,
9.5lb down
X
That’s really good I’ve only lost 26lb in 6 weeks.im feeling like this operation will never work .
Hi, Samantha! I recommend you contact your operating surgeon or dietitian, as they will be able to do a full evaluation, as there are many individualized factors to consider. Also, each program has different guidelines for diet and weight loss goals. You can call our front desk as well, and they can set you up with a virtual appointment to visit one of our providers, at 405-359-2475.
Muscle does NOT weigh more than fat. 5 lbs of fat is the same as 5 lbs of muscle. 5 lbs is 5 lbs no matter what it may be. The difference is muscle is more dense than fat.
Is it normal to lose 13 pounds after 10 days post op? I feel like i should lose more than that.
I have been doing walks clokcing in more than 5000 steps daily and drinking my shakes in lesswr amount than my dierician prescribe me.
Hey Ain. Yes, this is completely normal. Weight loss is typically slower the first 6 weeks post-op due to your body healing and adjusting to its new normal.
When people say muscle weighs more then fat, what they mean is muscle is dencer then fat. If I workout and gain 10 lbs of muscle nobody will notice, however if do nothing and gain 10 lbs of fat it becomes much more noticeable.
Stop being so anal and listen more to what people mean instead of what they say.
Lol
Lol thank you for the laugh….
Yes, the reason they say that is because you can be 150 with a lot of muscle mass and look 130 but firmer. Our you could be 150 with 50% fat and look way bigger.
Muscle doe NOT weigh more than fat. A pound is a pound, no matter what is weighed. Muscle is denser than fat. A pound of muscle takes up less space than a pound of fat. The more muscle you have, the easier it should be to lose weight because muscle needs more calories to sustain it than fat does.
That’s not true
1lb of muscle weighs the same as 1lb of fat
Muscle has more density then fat therefore taking up less room under ur skin
Muscle doesn’t weigh more than fat. Muscle just takes up less space
You’re building muscle.
Contact a dietician. You may not be eating enough calories.
If the scale is going up but your size is remaining the same or getting smaller you may be experiencing the replacement of fat with lean muscle
Eat less again. At 18 months after the surgery your stomach is in its final shape and from this point you have to reduce your food intake again until you get to that point where you are able to maintain your weight.
Im really.sad that I had the sugary on may 13th and its may 30th and Im only down 17 pounds i went from 237 to 220 what can I do?
Good Morning Heather! It is very common to not lose much weight the first 6 weeks post-op. This is due to your body healing from a major surgery. Typically after 6 weeks is when patients notice an increase in their weight loss.
I had surgery May 27th and its July 1st and I am only down 13 lbs.
I had surgery on May 21st today’s date is July started out at 298 lbs and I got on the scale this morning I Al 229 lb. Premier shake and for dinner bariatric meal I drink lots of fluid throughout the day water Gatorade zero calories
Does that include your pre-op diet, or are you talking just post surgery? I’ve not had my surgery yet. I’m 5 days away but I’ve lost quite a bit on this pre-op diet! I’m hoping it continues after surgery. I’m trying to figure up a reasonable 1 year goal without including the weight lost in the pre-op phase.
That’s great actually.. how many pounds did you lose before that quick before you had surgery it’s not a race you will get there trust the process
Don’t be sad, you will get their we didn’t gain it overnight and we won’t lose it over night. Don’t give up take it step by step you got this
Could it be muscle weight since your working out?
Eating a keto type diet helped me a great deal. I eat a diet that includes
high protein, low carb, low sugar, low calorie. That has helped tremendously. I eat high protein bars and shakes as well.
Don’t be sad, you will get their we didn’t gain it overnight and we won’t lose it over night. Don’t give up take it step by step you got this
Hello. I had the surgery January 14 of this year. I lost 15 lbs. In not dropping any more weight . I’m eating my 1/4 cup food at each meal. Why am I not dropping weight?
Hey Barbara! I would contact your dietitian regarding this question. They will be able to dive a little deeper into what you are eating, your fluid intake, and provide you with recommendations accordingly :).
I’m a large man I have lost weight but that’s been fat but have gained weight I working out so I had to get a workout plan that worked on weight loss not muscle gain going to the gym doesn’t mean we are working out the right way good luck be safe and happy with yourself is a big part of it all
This is happening with my wife now she got this sleeve surgery on Jan this year she lost 25 lbs and allthe sudden she us been over a month not losing any thing at all
It seamed like soon she switch from fluid meals to regular food he body stop losing weights
Any recommendations
Jamesimalak@gmail.com
Hey James! I would have your wife contact her dietitian. That way they can fully evaluate her diet and fluid intake. After doing so, the dietitian can make recommendations based on that information.
You will have stalls in your weight loss. Stick to the plan and it will start falling off again.
now its april, and wondering if you have continued to lose or if your still stuck?
I am 5 months in and I have lost 40 lbs , I have stopped on ocassions, I have found I am not eating enough so my body doesnt burn but store because it has to have fuel to burn and if I dont give it enough it doesnt burn anything, make sure it is the right food intake, get with your dr or dietition for correct food intake or what maybe your issue
I find that drinking water is the most important thing it helps food go through your body and eating lots of protein and if you can exercise it will help you I’ve only lost 31 pounds but I figure it’s better than gaining 31 pounds and I had my surgery 2 months ago I’m just going to persevere and do the best I can do I understand about your ankle cuz my knee kills me but I just tape it up and keep it moving good luck keep me posted dpolitano56@gmail.com
Hello I was having that issue until I increased my protein intake. I drink shakes and eat bars. As well as peanut butter and 4-6 oz of meat and 5 or 6 days per week
What was your weight to begin with?
Hey Barb. I’ve not had the surgery yet but I’m having it in 5 day and been reading tons of stuff on weight stalling. What I’ve read is to contact your doctor or dietitian and most likely they will have you start a diary to include all intake and exercise. Could be as simple as increasing your water intake or changing up your exercise routine or anything. They are the experts. Use their support. That’s why they are there……… not just for pre-op. That’s what I plan to do after surgery when I hit a stall (which seems inevitable about 6 weeks post-op from everything I’m reading).
Hello, I am debating if I should get gastric sleeve surgery, but I’m too scared if I lose too much weight . My height is 5’3 and I weight 190 lbs. 21 y/o
Hi I’m 57 5’1” and was 183 on 11/19/20 I got VSG and now weigh 156. I hope that by the 6 month mark I weigh 144. I would not worry about loosing too much. Your body will adjust. Just eat healthy – lots of protein and veggies. Force yourself not to snack until all your healthy food is in and by then there is little to no room for junk. I ate a half of a cookie and stopped where in the past I would have eaten the whole bag.
two years ago I lost 75 lbs in 4 months with Keto diet and I felt so good because I had lost more size than I expected(anyone that saw me thought I lost much more than 75 lbs) but even though I wanted to lose at least another 60 lbs I didn’t continue my diet and went back to my unhealthy eating habits and gradually I gained all the weight I had lost.
Now I’m 270 lbs again and I’m not in the mood for going through keto another time.it’s been 10 years that I’m married and we’re dying to have children but my Dr says it’s very risky to get pregnant in this weight. I really need to lose weight and start a normal life. I wonder whether bypass is the best choice for me or sleeve. is it possible for me to reach to at least 150lbs with these surgerys?(my ideal weight is 120 lbs)
Hi, Lili! I recommend to discuss that with our operating surgeons, as they will be able to do full evaluations and provide personalized recommendations based on your medical history, to determine the best outcome with each type of surgery. The first step to the program is to watch the free online seminar. Then someone will contact you to set you up with an appointment to see the surgeon whom will discuss the pros and cons of each surgery, review your health history, and discuss our process to operation. You can watch the seminar online at https://weightwise.com/seminars/#seminar-tabs. You can call our front desk as well, and they can set you up with a virtual appointment to visit one of our providers, at 405-359-2475.
I am also in the same situation. Just weighing slightly more than you. I am worried about losing too much weight and going down to like 6 stone!
You may not weigh enough to qualify for surgery.
I hope you will see this answer
You can’t lose to much weight. Our body’s are some amazing machine and when you lose enough weigh you losing weight will stop. If you have a drastic diet and lose more your body will start restocking nutrients and you gain a little bit weight until you get to a normal BMI
Hello, well I’d advise you to rethink it if I were you. My number one concern about having my sleeve surgery bk in February was NOT being in control of how much I would lose, had it in February I’ve lost 70lbs effortlessly, I’d like to stop, buuut, shows no signs of stopping, but technically/ medically speaking I’m still obese I’m 178 I’m also 5’3, when I had surgery I was 248. I must admit I do not eat a lot, I just can’t if I nibble when I’m cooking, I cannot think of sitting down to eat, I just can’t eat another bite. I don’t eat bread , never have. My nutritionist informed us that bread would stretch your pouch. I was wondering if after a while after surgery will we be able to eat more than 4ounces at a time?
Good Morning Zell! In terms of portion sizes, at WeightWise we do not have a set number of protein/calories/carbs that should be consumed daily. Instead, we focus more on mindful eating, rather than setting a specific amount. As long as you are drinking 96 ounces of fluids, not consuming starches (bread, pasta, rice, etc.), eating 3 meals a day, focusing on protein (2-3 bites of protein to 1 bite of veggie), and following the post-op eating behaviors (bite sizes the size of your pinky nail, 20-30 mins per meal, stopping at fullness, not drinking with your meals, waiting a full hour after eating to drink) you are doing everything correctly. Meaning, yes you could eat more than 4 ounces at a time :).
I am 5’3 and weighed 190. I am 3 weeks post op and have lost 18 lbs!! Yayyyy I was scared at first, but not now! I already feel so much better about myself and cannot wait for more pounds to fall off. Just do it! You will not regret it?
Hey Steph! I’m thinking about talking to my Dr about getting wl surgery, but I’ve been worried that he won’t approve it because Im right on the line of having exactly 100lbs to loose, but I’ve heard from other people that they won’t let you get it if you can’t loose at least 100lbs. See I’m 5′ and 208 lbs. So I guess what I’m trying to say, is how did you get your Dr to say yes? Did you possibly not use your Dr? Do you have any suggestions? I know my body and I’ve dropped a few pounds lately but that means I’m gonna gain them back double…sorry if this is a lot I just need help and courage/support lol
I am 4’11 and 180lbs and was approved. I’m having a VSG on Monday (10/25). I also have a comorbidity (hypertension) so that brought down the minimum BMI from 40 to 35. I started the process in April 2021; it was required to go through their program for 6mos before being approved for the surgery, as well as it being an insurance requirement.
I’ve met with my surgeon and I’m deciding on the sleeve or the bypass. He said either one would be okay with him. I have about 125lbs of excess weight to lose. I’m ready to change my life. I’ve lost about 60lbs since last year. I’m wondering which procedure will drop the most weight the quickest? Please help.
Good Morning Amy! Both procedures will cause you to drop weight. However, losing to quickly is not a good thing. Many times we have patients add in a few high protein snacks to slow down their weight loss to ensure that they do not lose to much muscle mass or notice a significant decrease in their energy levels. In terms of which surgery is best for you, that would be a great discuss to have with your operating physician.
I am having the sleeve in a couple of months abs I hope I can lose at least 104 pounds as my goal… can you tell me what are the best foods to eat??? Any vitamins???
Good Morning Kim! I would eliminate all sweets, starchy vegetables (potatoes, peas, corn, and winter squash), fruit, and sweet beverages (milk, juice, etc.). Meaning stick to protein and non-starchy vegetables for your meals and have 1-2 protein based snacks if you need them. In terms of vitamins, I always recommend a multivitamin and probiotic (not gummies) prior to surgery :).
The dietitian will give you a full diet with everything you’re allowed for every day, every meal and quantity. You don’t have to be worry.
I’m 53, 5’4 and 230lbs. After an entire year of research I’ve opted for the sleeve. My surgery is in a few weeks. I’m excited and nervous but I’m very hopeful for positive longterm results
Hey Jenie! Yay for taking this step. Listen to what your physician and dietitian recommend and you will do amazing!
Jenie, I’m having the sleeve in 5 days! Just wondering how your progress has been since the surgery?
Good Morning Amy! Both procedures result in about the same weight loss. Neither should cause weight to drop at a quicker in comparison to the other.
I recommend the sleeve because gastric bypass is irreversible and you end up with all sorts of malabsorption and malnutrition issues. You have to take a tons of supplements because your body doesn’t absorb nutrients as easily. People I know who have had gastric bypass always look so sickly afterwards, and people who have just had gastric sleeve look healthier. Fastest rate of weight loss is not the most important consideration (especially considering that 50% of patients regain the weight within 5 years after surgery).
I am trying to figure out whether it is better to do the sleeve or gastric bypass. I’m 5”4 / 197 pounds
Good Morning! That would be a great question to discuss with our operating physicians. The first step is to watch the free seminar. Then we will get you in to see the surgeon whom will discuss the pros and cons of each surgery, review your health history, and discuss our process to operation. They will also go over any questions/concerns that you may have at this time.
You can watch the seminar online at https://weightwise.com/seminars/#seminar-tabs
The sleeve because you dont have that much to go the bypass will make u loss too fast that for like 400+
That’s not true where did you get your information? I was 232 lbs At 4’4” had bypass its perfect Because it helped with my Gerd and I am not losing too much or too fast
Hello I had the sleeve almost a month ago I am 5’2 and was 240lbs, since surgery I am 28 lbs down and feel Great
I’m having sleeve surgery March 24th. I’m focused ready to start a new life style. I have friends with great stories.
good luck hun, its the best thing ever. the 1st 90 days are hard. but once u see the weight dropping that will make u go harder. my 1st month i lost 25 pounds
May I ask what your starting weight was?
Hi Carm. How did your surgery go? Hope your recovery has been steady and swift. How do you feel now that you are post-op?
hello I had the sleeve done September 8th of 2020 I was at my highest 231.4. i lost 51.4 pounds and i feel great. I’m at 180 trying to reach my goal at 160. i must say trying to pass 180 been hard, i been 180 going on 2 months.
I’ve done great with my sleeve had surgery a month ago and the I’ve lost 40lbs and only eating 1/4 cup of food
Holy cow Christina! That’s awesome!!!
Wow that’s great May 19 21 I will have the sleeve done. I hope I do as good as u are doing.
You will do great! I had the sleeve 11/20. My highest weight was 250lbs. I am now 186lbs. You will have stalls, no worries keep moving forward. Your body will restart itself and you will begin to loose again. Stay encouraged and Remember it’s a marathon not a sprint.?
Hello Susie I had the sleeve 3 1/2 weeks ago and I’m down almost 30lbs, 28 to be exact and I am enjoying my journey, wish I had done it sooner best thing ever, Wishing you the Best!
I am scheduled for gastric sleeve surgery on April 29th and I have to say I am excited and nervous at the same time I’m 5 foot 4 and weigh 245 lb
You are 10lbs less than me! My surgery will not be till the fall as I am just starting the process. I keep flip flopping on my decision to have it done 😀 Good luck to you!
I just started process i am 5’3 and 227 lbs. Doctor said sleeve is best for me as i a have been a smoker. But cannot due to surgery. Im doing the dietician appointments for next few months medicaid requires it to pay for it. They only cover it if your 40%BMI OR 35-39 with at least 1 cormorbidity. So hopefully process goes well.
I had my surgery in April 27. I’m 5 4” and started at 230. I lost 10lbs pre-surgery with protein shakes. Down another 12 lbs since surgery and feel great.
You’ll get there, everyone. I had the sleeve in November of 2017. My highest weight at 5’3” was 265 (about 47 BMI). I was 199 pounds day of surgery after a lower carb diet plan helped me lose weight while I jumped through insurance hoops. I am now 124 pounds with a normal BMI of 22. My initial goal weight was 145. I met that and had skin removal surgery, including a breast lift, arms, and a tummy tuck. I have lost 20+ pounds since, so my belly skin is looser again and my boobs are much smaller than I planned. Moral of the story: You can be so successful with weight loss surgery!!! Try to stick to the pre-surgery diet to get into good habits and lose as much as you can before surgery. You’re statistically more likely to be successful if you do so. Finally, if you plan to have skin removal, don’t do it until you are certain you’re at the weight you intend to maintain.
Hello ? I am a 42 y/o Woman standing at 5″5′ and 235lbs. I’ve been debating for sometime if i should get surgery done and i must say reading everyone’s stories have been very encouraging. Looking forward to my appointment next week.
Keep up the great work and continue sharing!
I am about to have VSG, how long after surgery can I start exercising?
I know excess skin is always a issue, Is there anything that can help with this?
Hey LucyLuLu! You can start walking almost immediately after surgery. We just advice patients to stop if they notice any pain and/or uncomfortableness. In terms of lifting weights, we typically recommend waiting to do us until you are over 1 year post-op.
Hi My Name is Cheryl and for anyone experiencing weight gain after the Gastric Surgery,,,, my surgery was 8 years ago the Gastric Sleeve and I gained 30 of the pounds i lost back, so disappointed in my self, I Researched and decided, ( Intermittent Fasting) was best for Me (Disclaimer ) I’m not saying this may work for you, but for me it did, and it became a way of life and more discipline for me do your research please and ask your doctor, I totally shrunk my Pouch back and I in a matter of Days then I kept Going Im Below my Goal Weight and I feel blessed to keep this weight off and so its a true way to control, if you overeat, you know what to do and do not,,,, Be Hard On your self,,, I just wanted to Share every One Stay Safe, God Bless.
Hi all! I’m 70 and going for my first appointment about bariatric surgery today. I am 5’1″ and weigh close to 240. I’m hoping this will work for me as dieting has failed me in the last year. I am concerned that I will begin to have related problems if I don’t do something about my weight. For the first time in my life, I feel my weight is affecting my life.
I’m 71 yo started out 5’3” 211. I had my sleeve surgery 5 weeks ago. I’m doing well but had to learn not to eat fast, very painful ‼️ Keeping to the program I’m down to 185! Doing water aerobics every day for 40 minutes.
Hard to doing the water the way I use to fills me up. I’ve tried every diet for many years this will work I’m surely blessed for my Dr. & his advice. Good luck remember 71 is just a number‼️ & my numbers are going down as my life is looking rosy, more energy & happiness abounds
I’m 48 years old and I’m currently in the beginning stages of the process. I’m both excited and nervous. any tips you can all give me.
Hello, my name is Bonnie. I am 5’1 and my top weight was 380lbs. I have been working for years to get the weight off. I went to a bariatric specialist, and using medications, diet changes and exercise I lost a lot of weight. I got down to 240lbs. Then I started gaining it back, not working the plan, blamed the pandemic, bottom line is stopped losing. So I made the decision to get the gastric sleeve surgery. But it being the pandemic it took from August of 2020 to May 5th 2021 to finally get it done. In the meantime I gained back to 274, then got back to 255 on the day of surgery. This is the first week, so I’m still on clear liquids. I am following the diet, walking at least twice a day and I’m feeling pretty good. But this diarrhea is killing me, and this morning, 5 days after surgery I vomited for the first time. Man that was painful. Anyways, I turned 51 in April, so I am wondering how much success I should expect? I have been doing the low carb, high protein for the better part of 4 years now with some success, and I do go to the gym at least 3 times a week. Any advice? Are my expectations too high? My goal weight is 125lbs.
Today (June 7, 2021) marks exactly 3 weeks since my gastric sleeve surgery. I have lost 27 1/2 pounds. I did have a stall last week. One thing I am now doing, so I don’t get discouraged or bummed out with stalls (which are normal), is to only weigh myself once a week on Monday. If I really feel the need to weigh myself again I’ll do it on Thursdays. I was becoming too obsessive with the number on the scale, which was not healthy. I am still only on thick liquids per my Drs orders (protein shakes and water). I can’t do the runny cream of wheat b/c it doesn’t sit right. I’m desperately trying to get my daily water intake in, but I’m lucky if I hit 46 ounces. I am also walking 30-40 minutes every day. Once my incisions fully heal, I will slowly try to start swimming laps. My friend who had weight loss surgery years ago, was able to start dropping a lot when she eased her way into swimming.
I also went on to Etsy and bought some great pdf food journals, weight loss trackers, etc. for cheap. So I’ve written out my goals, tracked my weight, measurements, and even wrote out my “rewards” for each weight loss milestone.
Everyone’s bodies are different, so we can’t compare someone’s weight loss to ours. We must persevere and do our absolute best to see what works for us individually and keep our hope. I
I am 5’7” and 204lbs. My BMI is 31.9. I am 57 years old. I have gained about 60lbs over the last few years. All of my life I have had a huge appetite and it’s getting worse. When I was a kid I would eat a lot but I remained slim because I was so active. Now as I age I am gaining weight. I have not been successful at dieting. I find it overwhelming to think about losing 60lbs. My weight gain is ruining my life. I won’t go out to socialize. I have isolated myself and feel very depressed. This compounds my weight gain. I am gaining weight every day. I want to live my life and not be so depressed about my weight. I am home all the time, work from home doing taxes. I have a closet full of clothes that don’t fit me. I live in sweats and t shirts. I want to feel better. I have a family history of diabetes. I am alone all day and night. I am feeling desperate and overwhelmed. I don’t know what to do to dig myself out of this. I am considering the sleeve but I’m nervous.
Your story sounds identical to mine.
Same age, same size, same isolation and depression issues.
I’m going for first consultation on 9/21/21
Nervous and excited. We can do this just have to be determined in our mind to make it happen.
I had the bypass Jan 28 2021 starting weight day of surgery 300 I’ve lost 73 pounds is that good I’m 5’1 and female age 51 on this Wednesday
Good Morning Toni! I think your weight loss sounds great! However, I would speak with your dietitian in regards to this for a more accurate answer :).
I had my Surgery on Apr 30 2021. When I started my Pre-op diet I weighed 397 pounds and on the day of surgery i was 370. Since then I have lost 52 pounds and weigh 318 pound. In the first couple of weeks I lost well over 10 pounds each week but since then it’s been around 5.5 pounds a week. I would love to be losing more but am happy that I have achieved consistent weight loss so far.
I had bypass on 5/31 and am down 10 pounds and have stalled for a week now. I’m discouraged.
Hey Barbara! Weight loss stalls are very common after surgery. They typically occur around 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, 9 months, and 1 year post-op due to your body needing 4-6 weeks to adjust to its new normal before losing more weight. It is basically the body’s natural way of regulating to its new normal before losing more. As long as you continue eating 3 meals a day, drinking your full amount of fluids, and keeping out any occasional carbohydrates, you will start losing again.
Hello, I am having a similar problem. I had gastric sleeve surgery 12 months ago and I’m only down 60 lbs (starting weight 272). I haven’t gained any but I haven’t lost any weight either. Still sticking to diet and trying to increase exercise and not loosing hope that weight loss will pick-up again. I was told that sometimes it could take up to 2 years to reach your goal weight. Good luck and good job on the weight you have lost.
I had sleeve on 1-4-21 and I am down 104 pounds. I started at 336 and down to 232 now. Have lost 23 inches in my waist and feeling great. I had mine done in Mexico and was best decision I ever made
Hi I’m Nikki and I’m 5’4 247lbs with hypertension and Pre diabetic. I have 1 more nutrition appt left in Sept. I’m hoping to move forward with the mini Gastric Sleeve. Did anyone have issues with insurance denying their surgery? My physician said I should be fine. I want this more than ever so that I can be healthier for my children.
Nikki Nikki, I am wondering what the ‘mini Gastric Sleeve’ is…didn’t know there was such a thing. I had regular gastric sleeve 6/24 and am down 20 lbs and a few dress sizes. I am very pleased and know it will continue to drop as I am following the plan and absolutely not overeating. I don’t know how one even does that after surgery – makes me ill.
I had surgery March 1st I started at 281 as of today I’m down to 187, am I losing too fast?
Hey Sharon! I would recommend contacting your operating physician and/or your dietitian regarding this question. That way they can conduct a full evaluation and provide you with recommendations based off of your individual circumstances. You could call our front desk as well, and they will set you up with a virtual appointment to visit with one of our dietitians at 405-359-2475.
Its so great the way all of the people commenting here are open about their successes and problems. I wish them all the very best of luck!!!
I have a consultation on 9/2 and sincerely hope I will be a good subject for the gastric sleeve. I’m concerned about insurance paying( Medicaid included) even though my BMI is 40 and I have high blood pressure. Im 68 and worry about potential loose skin everywhere, but.
I’m so encouraged by all the success stories I’ve read here and other places. Its very discouraging watching what you eat all the time and not being able to loose weight and having so much difficulty with exercise because of pain issues. I’m very excited I’ve finally made the decision to find out about this “help”!!!!!
I had gastric bypass back in September 2009. I went from 260 to 165 within the year. I was finally able to get pregnant with my second child in 2011 after 6 years of trying. After my son was born I dropped down to 145 until I got pregnant with my 3rd child on my middle child’s 1 birthday. I had a high risk pregnancy with my 3rd I was not gaining any weight and was actually losing weight until my 3rd trimester when my doctor put me on a high carb diet. When I had my 3rd child I stayed stuck at 189. A year and a half after he was born I dropped down to 130-135 pounds and stained there for over 2 years. I then was diagnosed with influenza A and it was to late for me to get the antiviral medication. Due to my symptoms being so severe doctors ended up putting me on 2 or 3 rounds of steroids. I went from 130-135 to 190 in 3 months (I also have PCOS and my body reacts horribly to most medications. I was still eating healthy and working out 3-5 times a week. 4 years after the weight gain and I am still having a hard time losing the weight I put on. I am currently at 175.4 pounds which since July is a 12.5 loss from 188. I tend to lose 10 pounds and it tends to come back within a few weeks. I have issues with working out because I have a bad ankle (I’ve had 2 surgeries, broken foot, and my cartilage is deteriorating). Would a revision surgery be a good option for me or just continue to try and lose weight on my own??
I finally had my Gastric Sleeve done on August 17th, after jumping through a ton of hoops for the insurance Co. I started at 236, I am 5ft 5”, age 49. I have lost 25lbs so far. It has been one of the hardest things I have ever done. I had to quit smoking before surgery, gave up caffeine, carbonation and straws forever. The puréed diet sucks!? It is NOT easy! It is NOT the easy way out! I am working out (step aerobics) and walking my dog twice a day. Sticking to diet and completely changing my life. I’m hungry a lot of the time and marvel at the small amount of food (1/2 cup!) that totally fills me up. As tough as this has been, I have ZERO REGRETS! I have this amazing tool that I can use for a lifetime! I had zero pain and never had to take pain meds at all- Just very uncomfortable and nauseous for the first week. Feeling better every single day, so glad I took control of my health! Good luck to everyone!
I’m just beginning to look into this and am the same height and similar age and weight as you. Do you mind sharing what challenges you had with insurance and how you overcame them? congrats on your weightloss so far!
I had the gastric sleeve done only 4 days ago, just back home and I’m feeling pretty miserable. I have my diet plan, but because I went to Turkey its very hard to understand, alot of the food on it I’ve never heard of. If anyone has any tips would be much appreciated.
Thank you and good luck everyone.
Hey Melissa! I would recommend contacting your operating physician or dietitian regarding this question. That way they can conduct a full evaluation and provide you with recommendations based off of your individual circumstances. They may also recommend something that we do not. However, we recommend just 96 ounces hydrating fluids and protein shakes that contain less than 7 grams of total carbohydrates for the first two weeks post-op. Protein shakes do not count towards your hydrating fluids. You could call our front desk as well, and they will set you up with a virtual appointment to visit with one of our physicians/dietitians if you would like, at 405-359-2475.
Where did you do the surgery at ?
it has been exactly 2 months today i have only lost 25 lbs seem to be stuck and going very slow to lose more weight i walk everyday any suggestions
Good morning Charlotte! I would recommend contacting your operating physician or dietitian regarding this question. That way they can conduct a full evaluation and provide you with recommendations based off of your individual circumstances. I would recommend making sure that you are drinking your full amount of hydrating fluids daily, eating 3 times a day, not snacking, and not eating any occasional starches. You could call our front desk as well, and they will set you up with a virtual appointment to visit with one of our physicians/dietitians if you would like, at 405-359-2475.
I’m considering having the gastric sleeve. I have been diagnosed with Stage 2 Diastolic Heart Failure with preserves ejection fraction. Does anyone know how safe this is to have this procedure with this diagnosis?
Good morning Veronica! That would be a great question to ask on of our operating physicians. However, I will say that typically it does help. The first step to the program is to watch the free online seminar. Then someone will contact you to set you up with an appointment to see the surgeon whom will discuss the pros and cons of each surgery, review your health history, and discuss our process to operation.
You can watch the seminar online at https://weightwise.com/seminars/#seminar-tabs