This patient underwent gastric sleeve surgery with Dr. Michael Choi in Fort Lauderdale and shared her journey one and a half years after the procedure. Her case highlights the gradual but steady progress that comes with bariatric surgery when paired with healthy lifestyle changes.
Patient Story
When this patient first came to Dr. Michael Choi, she had struggled with her weight for years and found it difficult to keep pounds off despite dieting and exercising. After a detailed consultation, she chose gastric sleeve surgery because of its effectiveness, safety, and ability to help patients retrain eating habits.
The gastric sleeve reduces the stomach size by about 75–80%, meaning smaller portions create lasting fullness. It also lowers levels of the hunger hormone ghrelin, making it easier to stay on track with healthier food choices.
Recovery Timeline
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Immediately After Surgery: Like most sleeve patients, she started on a liquid diet and gradually transitioned to soft foods. Within the first month, she noticed her appetite had decreased significantly.
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3 to 6 Months Post-Op: By sticking to her nutritional plan and incorporating light exercise, she lost nearly 35 pounds. This period is often the most rapid weight-loss stage for gastric sleeve patients.
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6 to 12 Months Post-Op: Weight loss began to slow to a steadier pace, averaging about 1–2 pounds per week. By the one-year mark, she was down close to 55 pounds. Her energy levels were higher, and she felt more confident in her daily activities.
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18 Months Post-Op: At her testimonial, she proudly shared that she was down 65 pounds. She continues to exercise regularly, focus on protein-rich meals, and maintain her healthier lifestyle. She emphasizes that bariatric surgery is a tool—and that lasting results come from “doing her part.”
“Hi, my name is Patient, and I am a patient of Dr. Choi. I had the sleeve about a year and a half ago. I’m down 65 lbs and working harder to lose more, doing my part.”
