Weight Loss Surgery: Sleeve Gastrectomy - Total Lost: 55 pounds lost so far*
*Weight loss results can vary depending on the individual. There is no guarantee of specific results. Read disclaimer | More patient stories
"I am forever grateful for the care and experience I received thru this program." —Jean
I have always been a “big girl” large boned and tall. I had gained weight over the years and tried many different diets, but could not keep the weight off. I was also pre diabetic.
My primary physician suggested I look into the Gastric Sleeve in 2014. But I insisted that I could lose the weight on my own. I proceeded to lose and gain the same 20lbs over the next year. In 2015 my doctor asked me again to consider the Gastric Sleeve and this time I really did. I went to an orientation for Bariatric Surgery through the UCLA COMET Program in late 2015. The staff was so friendly and knowledgeable, they really made me feel comfortable and welcome. Over the next several months I developed Type 2 Diabetes and high blood pressure. I was put on meds to control both of those conditions.
Dr. Chen really helped me understand what I was going to be dealing with and assured me that I was in good hands. I read reviews and asked my primary doctor about Dr. Chen and I was delighted with what I read and heard.
The Staff at UCLA COMET always made me feel comfortable and were so very helpful in preparing me for the surgery. I learned so much from the dietitians. They gave me a packet of information with all the details of what would happen before, during and after the surgery. It had lists of what I could eat and meal recommendation’s. It had information about which over the counter meds I could or couldn’t take. That packet was a life saver, I referred to it daily after my surgery. It was very easy to follow and I learned so much.
I think my initial success after surgery was a little slow but I was ok with that. I trusted the process and was able to adjust my lifestyle for success. I bring a lunch with me every day to work, filled with good protein options. I consider myself lucky because I don’t have a food addiction, I feel for others that deal with that situation. I like following a program and have learned to make some great dishes for myself and my family. I have always had a lot of energy but after my surgery I found a new level of sustained energy. I can now walk for miles and my knees and hips don’t hurt.
I have not needed to take diabetes or high blood pressure medicine since my surgery in June 2017. I have gone from a size 22 in pants to a comfortable size 14. I am now 20 months post op and I continue to learn and adapt to my new stomach and life. I am forever grateful for the care and experience I received thru this program. I continue to recommend this surgery and the UCLA COMET program to anyone who will listen.
