Weight Loss Surgery: Sleeve Gastrectomy - Total Lost: 72 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
"This surgery opened doors that I never would have dreamed." —Lolita
I struggled with 20 years of yo-yo dieting and a new heath problem arising each new year. In February 2018, my health got worse. I now was diagnosed with High Blood Pressure and was out on meds. I already was dealing with current ailments of hypothyroidism, metabolic syndrome, polycystic ovarian syndrome , acid reflux, heartburn, pre-diabetes, asthma, migraines, sinuses, foot and knee pain. I was told when I was 20 years old that I needed to get the lap-band or gastric bypass. I refused and struggled for the next 20 years.
I finally agreed whole heartedly and was in 100%. This was the smoothest experience ever. I experienced such royal VIP treatment. I felt like a billionaire. I wasn’t judged. Dr. Chen, the dietitians, the RNs and nurses took such great care of me. They treated me like I was the most important being on earth. Dr. Chen and all of his staff were and are informative, nice, welcoming and had such a genuine hospitality that hugged you with care, love and support. They rooted for me and everyone else going through this journey. They wanted us to live. They wanted me to succeed. The hospital staff was also memorable all the way down to the anesthesiologists and gave excellent bed side manner VIP care.
I will always be grateful for them all. I am blessed. Dr. Chen and his team keeps you informed every step of the way and they make sure that you understand everything from what you may feel before and after surgery to how to deal with life, years after your bariatric surgery. They give you the tools and interactive teachings to make the process easy. You are kept informed of where and what you can buy. And they offer you examples of meals that are easy to follow so that you won’t lose track of progress and success.
I no longer have High Blood Pressure, hypothyroidism, metabolic syndrome, polycystic ovarian syndrome, acid reflux, heartburn, pre-diabetes, asthma, migraines, sinuses, foot and knee pain. I no longer take any medication. It feels good. I feel more motivated to take chances. This surgery opened doors that I never would have dreamed. It gave me the confidence to take on a new and higher position at work. I feel like life has a whole new meaning to it. I no longer feel invisible. My only regret is that I wish I would have done this earlier and sooner. My journey isn’t over. When I saw Dr. Chen in 2018, for a consult, I was 254. Today, I am 192 pounds a size large in shirts and between a size 12-14 in pant.
