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From 21st to Size 10: My Unexpected Weight Loss Journey
6 Feb
Summary
- Initial weight-loss jab treatment failed to deliver long-term results.
- Gastric sleeve surgery led to a 9st loss in nine months.
- Weight loss allowed for the cancellation of necessary back surgery.
Pamela Phillips, who had struggled with her weight since her teens, initially found relief with a weight-loss jab in 2022. While it helped her lose 3 stone, the high cost and temporary nature of the medication led to weight regain, reaching 21st. Her health deteriorated, with severe back pain making simple tasks difficult, and she was informed that weight-loss surgery was too risky at that weight.
However, a subsequent diagnosis of morbid obesity (BMI of 41.2) at 20st 8lb made her eligible for a gastric sleeve. Despite initial hesitation and concerns from her husband, Pamela opted for private surgery in May 2023, costing £10,000. The keyhole procedure permanently reduced her stomach capacity by 80%.
The recovery involved strict liquid and pureed diets, followed by small portions. Within nine months, Pamela lost 9 stone, dropping to a size 10. This remarkable weight loss eased her back pain, eliminated the need for the planned surgery, and boosted her confidence, even leading her to win a Miss Bariatric UK pageant category.
