Ronda Villamagna

Surgery Date: 7/19/2021
Starting Weight: 244
Current Weight: 173

What made you decide to have weight loss surgery? After having thyroid cancer and a full thyroidectomy, weight loss was stressful and mentally exhausting without any success.

How long did it take for you to decide to have weight loss surgery? It took me 1 year to decide if weight loss surgery was for me.

Did anyone either encourage or discourage you from having surgery? My husband is always supportive and amazing.

What do you wish you'd known before the surgery? Iowa Weight Loss did a great job preparing me for surgery and set realistic expectations.

What things are you able to do now that may have been difficult or impossible before surgery? I get out of bed pain free. No knee pain or back pain.  Since back surgery 8 years ago, I had not been pain free until now.

Which conditions or diseases have you seen decrease or disappear since your surgery? My heartburn is gone and I no longer take meds to control it.  I also have Hashimoto's and have not had any noticeable issues since surgery.

How has surgery altered your outlook on life, your emotions, and/or relationships? My overall outlook is positive, and I am more comfortable in my own skin, which has given me more self confidence in group settings.

Why did you decide to have surgery with Dr. Eibes? I only considered Dr Eibes, because his record was impressive and I trusted him from day 1.

What would you say about Dr. Eibes and his team? Dr Eibes' team is always amazing, friendly and supportive.  I couldn't have asked for anything better.

What would you tell someone who is considering weight loss surgery? Avoid social media group pages, and talk to your Dr. for information to make the best decision for yourself.  No one else's story is the same as yours.

Is there any additional information you would like to share? I never thought I would ever wear a size 8 pant.  I am so happy with my decision and results.