R. Steven Jones, MD

I’m turning 42 at the end of this month. I’m a mother of 2 teens and struggle with stress and depression as most middle aged women do. I have a high level job with much stress, I’m the family breadwinner, and I’ve allowed life to get in the way of me. I’ve had enough. My whole life has been a struggle with weight and you name a diet, I’ve succeeded in losing weight, only to put it back on. Hell, I’m even a WW Lifetime member. I had set a goal of getting back in shape when I turned 40, but 40 came and went. I’ve allowed negative self image and negative internal dialogue to sabotage any progress I make, slipping back in to bad habits. Well, after doing all of the possible diets available through my life, I’m ready to work on behavior changes. I do not view this as a magic pill that I will wake up from and be thin. It’s going to take commitment, planning, and effort. I’m lucky in that I do not suffer from hypertension, diabetes, etc, (yet) but I am having back pain and other “nether region” issues that are most likely due to weight. I’m doing this to be proactive. I’m doing this to spend the next 40 years living, not dieting. I’m doing this to be there for my family. I’m doing this for me.

Updated on 15 Jan 2018:
I’m so ready to get this started! Thought I’d post some before photos. I’ve been reading a cognitive behavioral therapy book for weight loss and keeping it off. Although my main goal is to lose weight, my ultimate goal is to keep it off, for good! Let the clear liquids begin!!

Updated on 13 Feb 2018:
So, went for my 1 month follow up today and I’m down 10 lbs from day of placement but if I track from weight prior to a two day liquid fast I have lost 15 lbs! In the end, this is all a mental process as tackling food addiction is going to be lifelong, like giving up alcohol. I’m still hungry, but fill up after half a plate vs whole serving plates. Keeping calories around 900-1200/day and trying to exercise at least 15-20 minutes daily. I have also really focused on a Keto style diet, and avoid nutrient poor carbs. My Fitness Pal app has been a great help and I can track daily net carbs, trying to keep below 30 gm. I have ~30 lb to go until goal weight and I still feel motivated and pumped seeing my body change. I told myself before and I continue to tell myself, this is just a tool. It won’t do the work for me but it can help remind me. At 1-2 lbs per week for next 5 months, I think I got this!

Updated on 11 Mar 2018:
So, I’m two months in and still going strong. My waistline is down 2”, hips 4” and I’m back in the 160’s. What I’ve noticed the most from having this tool is that I’m much more aware of the quantity of food I’m eating. I’m not having many problems with heartburn or discomfort and I have change the type of food I’m eating. I’ve cut out most processed carbs, trying to keep to a Keto diet, and hold my calories to 1000-1200 per day. I don’t feel bloated anymore or the have the gas like I used to (my husband said I was worse than a man LOL). I’ve been able to find a multitude of recipes, especially dessert recipes, that are keeping me from feeling deprived. I just made low carb everything bagels this morning and they were divine! I think the biggest thing I’ve done to maintain success is TRACKING EVERYTHING and tracking every single day. I’m pretty sure I’ll be tracking forever because whenever I stop being aware of my input, I lose control. Exercise is still a struggle for me because I did not realize how out of shape I had gotten. I’m now struggling with lower back issues and sciatica. Just when I start feeling I am able to push myself, I’ll throw my back out. I’m on round two of physical therapy so hoping I can strengthen my core. I’m slowly making my way back but definitely not where I’d like to be fitness wise. Overall, yes, I’m still having to put in the work as this is just a tool, but I’m thankful I have the balloon to help keep me focused.

Updated on 14 Jun 2018:
This has been a pretty great experience overall. I only have a month left with the balloon and the thing scaring me the most is “will I still feel full once it’s out?” I really have learned to listen to my body and stop when I feel full. I’m following a low carb high protein/fat regimen, eating 1200-1500 calories per day, playing tennis 2-3 times a week, and walking in the evening when I can. I really am struggling with “working out” per se. I would rather go play tennis but I know that’s not doing the core exercises I need. So, I’m buckling down this last month, staying strong and finishing strong. But the real struggle is just about to begin. Can I keep it off? That’s the plan, at least.

Updated on 20 Jul 2018:
I am scheduled this morning for removal. 6 months has flown by!!! I am down 37 lbs and feel great! I wanted to lose 45-50 but realistically, my result is typical with orbera. I wish I could go longer to have the extra help reaching my goal, but I’m also realizing the weight loss was up to me. The saying “no” to treats and carbs and changing my behavior was all me. Orbera gave me the opportunity to recognize fullness and gain control of my weight gain spiral. I still plan to continue with my new found diet regimen and lifestyle. I feel mentally under control and have stopped self sabotaging thoughts. I love feeling smaller and clothes fitting better. I love having energy and feeling hopeful again. So, I had to do 3 days of liquids (2 full liquids, 1 clears) prior to today. I’m being told there is not really any nausea or anything after. I’m just so curious to see what the next 6 months will bring. To those considering the Orbera, it’s not a big deal and is reversible. With any weight loss surgery, how you use the device/surgery is up to you. I see too many coworkers and friends getting sleeves and bypass, do great initially, then gain it all back. You have to do the work regardless. Good luck!