Weight loss expectations for VSG with 50-60 lbs to lose

Hello everyone,

I had lapband surgery in 2002 and had major complications over the past few years. In January 2012 I had it removed.

Since having the band removed I've gained weight, and am desperate. I currently have 50-60 lbs to lose.

One of my concerns is losing weight too quickly, so that my skin does not retract. When I lost weight with the band I worked out and my skin did okay. However, that was over 10 years ago and I've become flabbier since then.

I'm curious how quickly other "lightweights" lost the excess weight. Also, how did your skin do?  If I go through with the VSG I plan to hit the gym, do weight training, and perhaps take up swimming.  

How much weight did y'all have to lose and how long did it take you to lose it? 

I look forward to hearing from you.

Lexi

5'8", 210 lbs, 46 years old

Hi Lexi - (love that name!)

I was 49 when I had my surgery and had RNY.  I lost 93 lbs to hit my goal, then bounced back up about 8 lbs. 

When I was 35 I lost a lot of weight and my skin did fine, this time - not-so-much.  I had a panni that hung pretty good and my girls definitely went south. 

I've always believed that muscles get worked during exercise, not skin.  It all depends on how long you've been heavy, genes, etc. 

How did you come up with your goal weight?

I've been heavy my entire life and was more physically active when young.  In recent years I haven't exercised much and have grown flabby.  

I came up with my goal weight based on how I looked/felt in the past when I lost weight.  At 160 I'll look amazing!

Ok - that's what I thought.  In the past I got to 150 and felt/looked great - BUT - I went to 125 this time.  Be prepared to go even lower than you are expecting - and consider it a blessing!  150 now and I'd be in the overweight BMI. 

I remember my surgeon asking me for a goal weight - I said 150.  He looked at me real real funny... and now I know why! 

Your skin is either going to retract, or not.  Losing weight quickly, or not, will not have much to do with that.  It depends on genetics, how long you've been overweight, your previous weight loss attempts, your age, etc.  Essentially, there is nothing we can do to make it retract, or not.  I think you have a good plan, but please don't make it dependent on what you want your skin to do.

I was 61 when I had RNY, lost 100 lbs + over a year.  I had been heavy for quite a while and had a yoyo history.  I was surprised that I didn't have worse skin issues.  I couldn't pass for 30 but don't try to.  I look hot in clothes and after 40+ years, DH is ok with me.  We are all that matter.

I had Vsg aug 6, I've lost 34 pounds. I have 15 more to go. My skin is great, but I'm 33 also, that may or may not play a part?? I feel I lose slow , but I had VSG over several birthdays and two holidays so far . I could have been lots smarter on my food choices anyway good luck!

Hi Nikki,

Thanks for your note.

Which app do you use to keep track of your protein, carbs, etc.?  

Lexi

My Fitness pal

Thank you. :-)