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Wish I'd done this years earlier *
  • Name: Jacalee Michaelis
  • Age: 62
  • Surgery: Gastric Sleeve
  • Surgery date: July 2nd, 2018
  • Testimonial date: October 2nd, 2018
  • Surgeon: Dr. Mario Almanza
As someone who had a lifelong weight problem, I'd tried everything: liquid protein diet, The Diet Center, Weight Watchers, Nutrisystem, the lemon juice-maple syrup-cayenne water diet, Atkins, LA Weight Loss, cabbage soup diet, HCG 'diet,' etc. Some worked and I lost weight, only to gain it back plus more.
Bariatric surgery was something I considered for literally decades. Unfortunately, when I got serious and tried to do it through my health insurance, the coverage was so limited and the multiple pre-approval requirements so stringent, I finally dropped the idea. Then I heard about Dr. Almanza from a coworker who had gastric sleeve surgery with him as her surgeon 3 years prior.

I took the plunge and in early July, 2018, traveled to Mexico to have the surgery.

Weight loss is not an easy road to follow; however, having had gastric sleeve surgery, I now have a 'built-in' tool that helps me to eat when I'm hungry, make conscious choices so I get my daily protein requirements, and guide me to good portion control. I am still learning about the changes from the surgery, such as foods I used to eat may taste differently now. How much I can eat at one meal is still a challenge; I've learned overeating is not only uncomfortable, but can even be painful.

Vertical gastrectomy is not an end-all. I can still cheat and not lose weight. Old habits sometimes reappear and when they do, I sometimes resist and sometimes succumb to their pull. Still I lose weight - just at a slower pace.

If you choose Dr. Almanza for your surgery, take at least a couple days' worth of loose, comfortable clothing for your recovery time in Mexico. Bring your simethicone, in whatever form you can find. I had a friend also suggest having sugar free hard candies. Optional - my roommate brought an abdominal binder which provided some pain relief for the 1st days following surgery. I bought one upon returning home but only used it for about a week. Immediately post op, I can see where it would be helpful; I found mine on Amazon.

Everything else, Weight Loss Agents will let you know about ahead of time.

To date, I've lost 34 lbs. post-operatively for a total of 54 lbs. since I began Dr. Almanza's pre-operative diet instructions.
    * This is an actual testimonial, however, your results may vary. For more information, please read our Testimonial Disclaimer and Risks of Surgery.
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    * The testimonials, statements, and opinions presented on our website are only applicable to the individuals depicted, and may not be representative of the experience of others. For more information, please read our Testimonial Disclaimer and Risks of Surgery.

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