“What I would say to people considering this surgery is: DO IT! I was 21 years old and fighting all these years of dieting. I was at 317 pounds and although I was successful at different diets I always regained the weight. At that time I was being treated for sleep apnea and high blood pressure. My cardiologist referred to me as "morbidly obese" in his report. This shook me to my roots. I knew I couldn't live the rest of my life as a morbidly obese. The frustration of dieting and then regaining the weight was too much. I had to do something.

My friend from work recommended that I see Dr. Gabriel, at that time she was already scheduled for the same procedure. She prepared me before I had my first appointment so that I knew all the questions to ask.  Dr. Gabriel described very carefully the different procedures I could have done and left the choice up to me. I chose to have the lap-band. Dr. Gabriel gave me the all the attention, I knew I was in good hands. I became anxious the month before the surgery was scheduled because I had never undergone major surgery before. I decided to go join a support group which I strongly recommend  to anyone considering surgery. Speaking with other patients who had the surgery was reassuring and a tremendous help.

I experienced very little pain after the surgery. I was up and walking the same day. For the first 15 days at home I ate only pureed food. I have restricted the amount of sweet foods I eat but other than that I eat virtually everything I want to.  I was back to work within a week, and was up to full speed in every way within a month. I never experienced any vomiting and the results have been great.

I've lost 48 pounds in 7 weeks. I no longer have sleep apnea. My blood pressure is normal. All the pain in my knees, hips and ankles is gone. My cholesterol is down, my triglycerides are down, and I feel great. My only regret is that I didn't have the operation sooner! Other than that, I wouldn't do anything differently. If you are considering having this surgery, speak with people who have had it done. This will help you get over your fears. I would be happy to share my experience with anyone who would like to find out more about what is involved in this surgery."

Gabriella Karasik