Overweight people often struggle with dieting for several years and are simply unable to keep the weight off. Bariatric, or weight loss surgery can ultimately be the answer for many to achieve their weight-loss goals.
According to Dr. James Siatras, Director of Bariatric Surgery at the Methodist Hospitals Center for Bariatric Surgery, many weight loss surgery patients are newly diagnosed with conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure. Others are morbidly obese and realize they must take immediate action to prevent further problems from happening down the road.
At 398 pounds, Renee Haltom’s weight made it difficult for her to play with her children, fit into a restaurant booth, and even hampered her walking and breathing. She also suffered from acid reflux and was diagnosed with fibromyalgia.
She turned to the Methodist Hospitals Center for Bariatric Surgery for help. In the Center’s six-month program prior to her gastric bypass surgery, Renee benefitted from counseling and learned valuable nutrition and diet habits.
Now at a much healthier 188 pounds, Renee no longer has acid reflux and says the weight loss has even helped with her fibromyalgia. Renee credits the Center for Bariatric Surgery team with teaching her to live a healthier lifestyle and having a positive impact on her life.
“My breathing is better and I’m able to play with my kids,” Renee said. “I’m actually going back to school to study nursing, and I’m engaged to be married.”
“The main motivation for many people to choose bariatric surgery is to get healthier,” Dr. Siatras said. “People who are morbidly obese are more likely to develop conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, high cholesterol and gastroesophageal reflux.”
He added that weight loss surgery patients must make a lifetime commitment to be successful.
“It is a life-changing experience, but not a quick fix,” Dr. Siatras said. “It’s a marathon, not a sprint.”
Anthony Garwick fell into a deep depression following a family vacation during which he was unable to go on any of the theme-park attractions with his children.
“My weight had gotten out of hand,” Anthony said. “No matter the diets and exercises I tried, I couldn’t lose weight.”
When he chose to have gastric bypass surgery in March 2020, Anthony weighed 385 pounds. He now weighs 180 pounds.
“You have to show a commitment to relearn how to eat,” Anthony said.
Both Renee and Anthony agree they are happier, healthier, and more confident at their present weights.
“They both took advantage of the bariatric surgery process and used it to reach their full potential,” Dr. Siatras said. “It’s been a life-changing experience for Renee and Anthony, and they’re both healthier, happier people.”
James Siatras, DO, is the Director of Bariatric Surgery at the Methodist Hospitals Center for Bariatric Surgery. Call 219-738-5617.