Weight Loss Surgery Clinic Near Me: How Deborah Lost 95 lbs with Gastric Sleeve Surgery at NJBC

Being overweight was a lifelong struggle for me. I have tried weight loss pills when I was a teenager, Weight Watchers®, Jenny Craig®, and every other diet. I would lose the weight, but I was never able to keep it off. Then I found a weight loss surgery clinic near me, New Jersey Bariatric Center®, and decided to have gastric sleeve surgery.

How I Chose My Weight Loss Surgery Clinic Near Me

I chose weight loss surgery with NJ Bariatric Center after attending one of their seminars at Somerset Medical Center. I went with my husband to support him and it was then that I learned about the gastric sleeve and gastric bypass surgery for weight loss. They also explained the requirements: a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or more, or a BMI between 35 and 40 with at least one severe obesity-related condition, such as diabetes or high blood pressure. 

As I was listening to the doctor who explained the requirements for bariatric surgery, I realized I qualified. I signed up but my husband didn’t. After having gastric sleeve, I ultimately lost 95 lbs and have maintained most of my weight loss since then.

How Gastric Sleeve Helped Me Lose Weight

After my surgery, the weight came off quickly and it was great to see my results. What I didn’t fully understand at the time is that bariatric surgery is only a tool to help me achieve my weight loss goals, not a cure. It jumpstarted my weight loss by reducing the size of my stomach. A smaller sized stomach made me eat less and feel fuller on much smaller portions of food. 

It helped me to form better eating habits, learn the portion size that works for me and make smarter choices. I understand it now and it is something that I always have to be mindful of.  Years later I did regain some of my weight, but by getting back on track, I’m now still less than 10 lbs from my original goal weight.  

NJ Bariatric Center’s Role in My Weight Loss Journey

The doctors and staff at NJBC are great and very supportive! Having their support has been helpful in understanding that obesity is not just a matter of willpower. Dr. Goyal was good at explaining to me that after my surgery, I still have to do the work in maintaining my weight loss. 

Instead of fixating on the number on the scale, I focus on celebrating my small wins, like how my clothes fit and my overall well-being. I would definitely recommend New Jersey Bariatric Center® to anyone who is serious about losing weight and not just getting a quick fix.

Life Since Bariatric Surgery

Since my weight loss surgery, my health has improved. Even though I still have neuropathy in my feet, I’m no longer diabetic and I’m much more active. My eating habits have changed significantly; I’m much more mindful of every choice I make and what I eat. I love that I can now fit in an airplane seat without a seatbelt extender! 

FAQs about Weight Loss Surgery

• How long does it take to lose weight after bariatric surgery?

Weight loss following bariatric surgery is unique to each patient and is influenced by the specific procedure performed. After gastric sleeve surgery, the initial weight loss is 2-4 lbs per week. On average, patients lose between 40-70% of their excess body weight as early as 12 months.¹ The results depend on a variety of factors, including but not limited to adherence to post-operative guidelines.

• How do I qualify for gastric sleeve surgery? 

To qualify, a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or greater or a BMI of 35 with obesity-related conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or sleep apnea should exist. Calculate your BMI here to see if you are a candidate for gastric sleeve surgery.

• How much is a gastric sleeve in New Jersey?

Without insurance, on average, in New Jersey the cost of gastric sleeve procedures range from $8,500 to $18,500. The cost depends on each person's individual needs and the procedure. The self-pay costs in NJ typically include hospital or surgery center fees, anesthesia fees, pre-operative lab work, 1 year of post-operative visits, 1 year of nutrition counseling and exercise classes.

• Which bariatric surgery is best for type 2 diabetes?

The metabolic changes associated with both the gastric sleeve and gastric bypass, can support improvement in cardiovascular health and/or even lead to remission in type 2 diabetes and sleep apnea.

Sources

1. Ionut, Viorica, and Richard N Bergman. “Mechanisms responsible for excess weight loss after bariatric surgery.” Journal of diabetes science and technology vol. 5,5 1263-82. 1 Sep. 2011, doi:10.1177/193229681100500536