Lisa Beck

Surgery Date: October 2014
Starting Weight: 254 lbs.
Current Weight: 174 lbs.

After 30 years of trying every diet that existed, Lisa decided it was time for a change. Today, she’s 80 pounds lighter, her health has improved, and she no longer needs medication. Her elevated energy levels mean she can now go hiking and biking with her husband and kids. Lisa says: “My only regret is that I didn’t do the surgery sooner!”

Before your surgery, what medical conditions were you suffering from?  I had severe knee pain, joint pain, and gastric reflux.

Since your vertical sleeve gastrectomy, in which conditions or diseases have you seen a change? I now have full range of motion in my knees, and I can climb up and down stairs without pain. I also no longer have pain or stiffness in my other joints!

What made you decide to have a vertical sleeve gastrectomy? After a lot of research, I found that the sleeve gastrectomy surgery seemed to be the least invasive with the best outcomes and had fewer side effects than other options.

Besides the external changes you have experienced, how has the surgery altered your outlook on life and your relationships? I believe that my life expectancy has greatly improved. I am able to spend more active quality time with my family, and I’m in a much better mood!

What kinds of things are you able to do now that before the surgery were difficult or impossible? I am able to climb stairs and walk further distances; in fact, I did my first 5K this year! I can cross my legs and fit into any chair. It’s so wonderful that I’m able to walk into any clothing store and find clothes that fit. I no longer have to worry about whether or not there is a plus size store around or if the store will carry my size.

What do you wish you’d known before the surgery? I wish I knew about the effectiveness of this surgery sooner in life! 

What would you say about Dr. Eibes and the Iowa Weight Loss Specialists team? Dr. Eibes and the team are fantastic. They really do care, and they will go out of their way to make sure you are taken care of.

What would you tell someone who was considering weight loss surgery? Don’t keep putting it off, take control, and start living your life instead of watching it go by. DO IT NOW!