That's great Donna, just remember no matter what the scale reports, as long as you are following your plan and exercising, you are good and have nothing to be upset about.
I don't know how old your scale is but if its an older spring type, you need to toss it and get a good electronic scale.
A plateau like you describe is do to putting on muscle, which weighs more than fat, which is not a bad thing. You are still slimming down at the same time. Building muscle and slimming down both excellent results in your weight loss journey, Win Win!
Your protein drink should have 20-30 or better grams of protein. The higher the protein the better satiated you will be. There is a lot of so called protein drinks out there that are pure junk. Still I sympathize with you but it will be worth it.
The truth is that for bariatric surgery the long term success rate is forty percent over all. That compares to only 3 percent for all traditional weight loss long term. Its not that the surgeons aren't doing their stuff or the surgery has failed.
I know that I don't intend to end up on the red...
If you're following your program, the weight loss will come at its own accord. Having over heightened expectations will only leads to disappointment and discouragement. Relax and let nature take its course. Good things come to those who wait.
My advice is to stay away from the scale and weigh...