I had the surgery about 10 years ago. Before the surgery I was 333lbs. I now weigh 160 and am 5'8. Most people with lose about 3/4 of their goal weight. The rest of the weight, I found I had to work at to lose. The surgery has been a blessing to me. I lost the weight fairly fast, and to this day I am able to run and exercise at the gym (something I couldn't do before) I am so much more healthier, and feel so much better. But, the surgery isn't easy. For about the first two years I got sick alot, due to the fact I was adjusting and trying to learn what I could eat. I finally figured out little tricks that helped. For example-I can eat bread alot easier if it's toasted. I have a really hard time with meat, and must eat very little. I have had to take iron, and vitamins just to make sure I am getting everything I need. In the beginning I lost weight so fast. I think about 20lbs my first month. I had lost 50 lbs within 3 months. But, overtime my hair thined out. And, I also don't have as good of teeth as I use to, this is from getting sick so much for the first few years. But, other then that I am fine.
It takes awhile to adjust. You don't realize how much you base your life around food. I remember eating not being fun at all for awhile. Today, I love to eat, and can eat most foods, just in small amounts. I also missed the feeling of chowing into a big hamburger, or something similar. I would see a steak or a hamburger commercial and it would drive me crazy. But, it doesn't bother me at all anymore. I am so use to the surgery I feel like anyone else. You also have to get use to eating out, I mostly enjoy appetizers, or side dishes, or soups or salads. It's all just a change that before long you won't even notice. The benifits were far more for me! I feel and look great! I never thought I could weigh this little or wear such a small size! You should definately join a support group, after surgery!