• Name: Northern Gal
• Age: 38
• Surgery: Gastric Sleeve
• Surgery date: December 12th, 2014
• Testimonial date: January 12th, 2015
• Surgeon: Dr. Almanza

Hi, my name is Stephenie, and I am patient of Dr Almanza. I had a gastric sleeve performed one month ago today, as I am writing this. I have lost 29lbs as of this morning including the pre op diet. I am currently very comfortably able to wear my skinniest jeans.
ok, so those are the numbers, but we know that the experience, the fight, the decision you are making right now, it all has nothing to do with numbers. It's about safety, its about money, and it's about primarily your self. Whatever your reason for thinking of having gastric surgery, health, appearance, prosperity, longevity, or all the above.. it's a hard decision, and a scary one. I can't tell you the right decision for you, only tell you my experience.
First of all, throw out everyone else's opinion about it. It's your opinion that counts. Only you know the demands of the hungry beast in your stomach that drives you to the fast food lane again and again. Only you know if you can defeat that hunger, or if you need help. I can tell you now, that feeling of hunger what was once a starving incessant gremlin demanding to be fed, is now a distant rarely felt twinge. What I feel now is freedom, and control. I feel proud of myself as well, that I recognized that I needed help, and took back control of my life.
I know you might be afraid. To that I say a bit of healthy fear is a good thing. Be informed. Do not go into this thinking it will be a walk in the park. Be sure that you ask every question, and do what is best for you. Dr. Almanza's staff was amazing in answering all the questions I had, candidly, professionally and with humour. They are a terriffic resource for you. At the same time though, I want to tell you not to be afraid of yourself and being a healthier you. I want to reach my hand through this computer screen and put it on yours, and tell you, you deserve this, I am proud of you for having the courage to consider it, and that it is ok to take back your life.
As for the brass tacks, I recieved excellent care from Dr. Almanza, and his wonderful nursing staff. It was comparable to going to a clinic at home, and having home care afterward. If you have a long flight after your surgery though, I advise staying a few extra days before handling baggage and airports etc. I realized I had pneumonia a week after due to the flights etc. I got up and walked, but it is very hard on the body regardless. Expect the first night to be rough. Get up and walk anyway. The walking afterwards is the key to feeling better quickly. Once you can drink, try the mangoe juice, it is divine! Do get yourself a really good blender. (Montel Williams) At this point I find it really hard to keep down canned soups, but I made home made soup, and if I blend it just a few pulses, I can eat most things I have tried. This is my experience. Don't expect yours to be the same. I am only telling you so that you will understand there will be these kind of challenges.
So I will leave you with this.. I went shopping yesterday, and bought a few dresses. I looked better in them than I have in quite some time. And in about a month, the one that didn't quite fit, definately will. By summer... well I'm excited about the beach season. I am excited to show off my body and voice on stage in two weeks.. I feel healthy, and light. I wish you the best with whatever decision you make. Make it for you. Make it right for you. And if you do decide to go with Dr. Almanza, know you are in very safe supportive hands.

* This is an actual testimonial, however, your results may vary. For more information, please read our Testimonial Disclaimer and Risks of Surgery.