Clint69

While I agree that you have to fine tune your eating habits to accomodate what works for you, there is framework that should be followed. It's very simple: Count calories - You have to be able to know your intake vs your output to know how to achieve you goal. This includes your days for your exercise routine and rest days. Too much of a calorie deficit will force you to lose weight but not keep it off for the long haul. To much surplus will obviously promote weight gain. I think that a 300 cal. deficit is a good cutting deficit to ensure that you don't lost too much muscle while trying to lose weight. Eat a balanced diet - approximately 40% protein, 40% carbs and 20% good fats (omega 3s etc). Little to no saturated or trans fats. Small meals a day - this definately has an effect on metabolism. It has been scientifically proven to speed it up. The ultimate measurement is your BMI. If you lowering your body fat and increasing strength/size, you are on the right track (for lifters). BTW, vegetables are not worthless.

TTP, Yes, I have just experienced a couple and I am at month seven. Mine are a little more towards the crown which is where things have been lagging a little. I though for sure I would be done gaining density around month 6 but at month 7 it is getting thicker and I still get a few pimples here and there.

I have been taking NO products for several months with absolutely no issues. I would think that the increadsed blood flow would certainly help. I do not believe I have lost a hair since I have been taking them.

Whenever I get into a situation where I experience anxiety, I ask myself, what can I do about it today? Then, I just do it or let it go.

azza, Very nice improvment. I hope things continue to thicken over the next several month.

I never had a problem with flat bench. I did notice some tension with incline and decline press though. Only when I went heavy.

Opinions will vary slightly on this subject but they become secure at about the 8-10 day mark. Clint

HairIsThere, I am also an avid weight lifter and I had some of the same concerns. I went to a top doc and he stated that I could go back to my normal routine after 4 weeks. I started walking on a treadmill on week three and after week four I started lifting light weights. I resumed heavy lifting at about the 7 week mark. I have no visible stretching of my scar currently. Obviously if you feel any tension, stop the eexcercise immediately. That being said, you should follow your Drs post operative instructions to a T. Clint

Thats a very good head of hair. Clint

riky, I am the owner of a nutrition store similar to a GNC. I will sell you a tub of top line protein for $30 and you can get 30 quality protein shakes. You got ripped off.

riky, I would like to see your pre and post op photos. Do you mind posting them?

Thanks for the comments guys. It is quite a reliefe to finally see growth. I will keep everyone posted of the progress at month 5. Clint

jbkg, Thanks for the kind words. The scar visability is minimal at this point. I really have to look to see it. To the untrained eye, its not visible. I will try to get better pics. Good luck with your procedure, you are in great hands with Adrian and Dr Rahal. Clint

Hey Guys, Check out my blog for my most recent pics. I am just shy of 4 months. I have experienced a considerable amount of growth over the last 30 days. I am the world's largest skeptic but so far Dr. Rahal is proving me wrong. Considering I am only at 4 months, I am very optomistic of the next several months. IMO, I have had a considerable amount of change. Please excuse my poor picture quality, I was in a hurry today. Yes, it is as full as it looks. I do not use any concealer. Please let me know your thoughts. Clint

Hey Guys, Check out my blog for my most recent pics. I am just shy of 4 months. I have experienced a considerable amount of growth over the last 30 days. I am the world's largest skeptic but so far Dr. Rahal is proving me wrong. Considering I am only at 4 months, I am very optomistic of the next several months. IMO, I have had a considerable amount of change. Please excuse my poor picture quality, I was in a hurry today. Yes, it is as full as it looks. I do not use any concealer. Please let me know your thoughts. Clint