Down 100+ lbs - Body Image Changes!

Carb_Story

Well-known member
Back when I was hospitalized with edema and struggling with both hypercapnia and heart problems, my weight hit a peak of 711 pounds. After starting on semaglutide, then switching to tirzepatide, I was down to 566 pounds, having already shed a lot of fluid.

Now, I'm at 460, which I realize still seems enormous to many, but it marks a significant loss of over 100 pounds and the journey continues. I'm finally noticing some real changes in my appearance, even compared to when I first began the medication. My face definitely looks different than it did in the hospital.

It's amazing how losing this much weight can transform your body! I'm only now starting to really see the difference. It took a loss that large before it became visible to me. (Though I could do without the sagging skin.)

From resembling an overfilled balloon, I feel like I now just look like… a really big fat person. And that’s a huge win. I can shop at plus-size stores. My knees hurt less. I can exercise in the pool for almost an hour straight.

These are good things. But what I'm really enjoying is reconnecting with my body. If I can get down to the 300s this year, it will be incredible; I might actually cry.

Ps- I think I look great in my new jeans—and I can tell!
 
That's a fantastic achievement. We're all cheering you on to get into the 300s. Come back and update us!
 
Wow! It's 7:30 AM and I'm tearing up reading this! Seriously, keep up the amazing progress...it changes everything! Keep sharing your journey, and have a wonderful year! Loving yourself lets you love others more! Thank you for such an inspiring story of strength and triumph.
 
This post is so uplifting. It really is all about *us* and how WE feel. Noticing the changes for ourselves. I tend to compare myself to others and wonder when they will see it too... but I need to focus on what matters to ME. Small wins. I don't have a massive loss, loose clothes, etc. No one has noticed anything. My victories are "small" including to me. Less tired. Easier sleep. Less achy back. I'll take it!!
 
I think I now understand why "just a fat person" is a good thing. I started at 377 primarily out of concern about getting a knee replacement and wanting to stay active. Looks-wise, I was content with my weight. You, however, had a medical crisis at over 700lbs, so I'm extremely happy you're recovering! Amazing job. That was clearly unsustainable. But if your health and mobility are going up, numbers that others consider high can still be awesome.

Once you drop below ~400, then ~350, you'll probably see more big jumps in things that become easier, and then major quality-of-life improvements come with even smaller losses. Under 300 made my body feel completely ordinary.

Anyway, I get what you mean and I can relate. I'm cheering you on as you enjoy this moment! I'm sure you'll love what's to come!
 
Brava! 566 to 460 is HUGE, be proud. A year ago I was at 460. Gastric bypass 12 years ago got me to 330 and I stayed there for a decade until starting Ozempic exactly a year ago. Mounjaro for 6 months now and I'm 270 this morning. Lowest in 2 decades. Slow and steady. But it is doable. I'm rooting for you to get into the 300s and beyond! I cried when I crossed that 300 mark, and you will too.
P.S. the saggy skin... We learn to hide it with clothing!
 
Carb_Story said:
Ps- I think I look great in my new jeans—and I can tell!
. You GO girl! I bet you look fantastic, and who cares about a little loose skin when you feel this good? Celebrate your body!
 
That's so awesome! I'm 5'3 and my highest weight ever was 230. I'm down to 158 and my goal is 130. I haven't weighed that little since middle school! I don't even know what to expect. Progress can be slow and frustrating, but it's all worth it!
 
Thank you all for the encouragement! It really helps to stay motivated. I know I still have a ways to go, but every pound down is a victory. And yes, I plan to update everyone when I hit the 300s! It feels like such a far-off dream still.
 
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