Question:
I have lost 156 lbs since the beginning of this journey and have lost most of it in

my hips and butt and also shoulder area, however I have two terrible problem areas-my stomach-which looks like I swallowed a tire and under my arms to the sides of each of my breasts. It looks HORRIBLE! I have been doing sit ups to no avail-anyone got any suggestions or do I just have to live looking like a spinning top from my childhood? Thanks for any help!    — Marcie B. (posted on July 2, 2002)

July 2, 2002
I was very lucky and lost my big butt to WLS (if you find it PLEASE do not send it back! =) BUT I did have a lot of loose skin in the abdominal area. I have found that over the past 2 months or so (I am 14 mos out) it has started to kind of even out. I have heard of the "snap back" effect but didn't believe in it. I have to say that either I have just gotten used to the sag or it really does look better than it did at 7 months out. Once you get to goal and your body has time to "settle" a little you will probably even out some. That's not to say all the lumps will disappear but it will probably look a lot better than it does right now while your body is still wondering what hit it. Good luck!
   — ctyst

July 2, 2002
hi. 156lbs? AWESOME!! :) I am a very new post-op, only 4 weeks, so I cannot help you from experience, only from what I have heard. People who take BIOSHAPE and PROTIVITY pills for added supplements for protein (they are 4-6 grams of pure protein per pill is the official word according to distributors. But I have heard that it also helps make the eaten protein much more effective). Anyway, from people who have taken them for weeks and months, they say it has given them increased energy and BIOSHAPE helps with the flabby skin. I don't know these people personally, just have heard from the grapevine. I take these pills b/c it's hard for me to get in all of my protein, so I take 2 a day for 10 more grams a day, and i do have more energy. I know other people who are 4 weeks post-op who feel like doing nothing. (not to mention I have quite a few illnesses) They also contain vitamin C, calcium and other things. http://www.royal-health.com/bioshape.htm . <p> Otherwise, I have those underarm fat by my breasts as well, I can never wear tank tops, I am still losing weight. I am hoping it goes away. I wish you much luck. BUT CONGRATS on such a wonderful weight loss!! :)
   — Lezlie Y.