My 37 kg Weight-Loss Success with Gastric Sleeve Surgery

"Having Gastric Sleeve surgery is the easy way out!…"

That’s what I heard, and to be honest, until I started to consider this pathway seriously, I thought so too. I was wrong.

It’s an arduous journey, it’s hard work… It’s a complete lifestyle change, and I am happy I chose Dr Jason Maani to help me on this journey.

I had no energy, and food was my comfort.

I can’t remember a time when I haven’t disliked (or outright hated) what I see in the mirror. Clothing shopping was never something I looked forward to, so my wardrobe consisted of comfort clothes: leggings, shirts, and oversized jumpers.

I had anxiety over going out to eat with friends and rarely ate in front of anyone as I felt judged whenever I did. So I started doing some research and found Dr Maani… and Stephanie.

First Appointment

I remember calling to make that first appointment and being nervous beyond measure. Stephanie was just an amazing, calming, reassuring voice, honestly putting me at such ease as I made this decision.

When I saw Dr Maani, I weighed 122 kilos – except during pregnancy, this was my heaviest adult weight.

I met with Dr Maani in November, and after some consultation, surgery was booked for the end of January.

Solo Mum

I’ll take a moment to mention that I am a solo mum (by choice) to two young children (3 and 6 at the time), and I work full-time. I was very concerned with how I would recover, would I be tired or in pain – how would I do it?

I commenced the pre-op diet just after Christmas and managed to lose about 5 kilos in the lead-up to surgery.

Following the surgery, although I was in pain, I was able to function quite well and was able to look after the kids without too much disruption, and I came to love the post-op diet. Protein powder was my new friend, and ensuring I was keeping on top of getting enough protein and vitamins meant that my energy levels were no worse pre-surgery – in fact, as I recovered from the surgery incisions, I had more energy – and the weight loss started.

Weight Loss Success

I didn’t get on the scales every day, on purpose, I was honestly too scared to – what if I didn’t lose anything?? But I did!

I am now 8 months post-surgery, and I have lost 37 kilos to date. I am now at my lightest adult weight ever.

Now for the best bit.

I went clothes shopping a few weeks back, buying for a summer wardrobe – and it was SO MUCH FUN!

I have dropped five dress sizes, and am so happy with how I look now. But also, how I feel. I have more energy, I enjoy running around with the kids – heading to the beach, bike rides, and just being outside with them.

My relationship with food has improved; I no longer seek it out for comfort, and I feel comfortable eating with other people. I am happy, and I am so pleased I took this step.

For anyone considering it

Do your research, read or talk to whoever you need to, to get the information you need to feel confident in your decision. I was so happy with the pre- and post op treatment from Dr Maani and Stephanie.

I haven’t been left alone to figure out my way – they have been there to help whenever I’ve needed it. Yes, it was hard, and yes, there have been sacrifices – but that’s true of any weight loss journey. This was the right decision for me, and it has worked so well.

Good luck on your journey.