Meet Yvette, a past patient of Mexico Bariatric Center® from the stunning landscapes of British Columbia, Canada. With firsthand experience navigating the challenges of bariatric surgery, she understands the uncertainty that comes before making this life-changing decision. Yvette is eager to share her weight loss story to inspire others on their path to overcoming obesity.
My Story
I’m a wife in my late 40s and a mom to two kids. I’ve struggled with my weight for most of my life, starting in my teens, and it became even more challenging as I got older. It didn’t just get hard; it became impossible to lose weight. I asked my primary care physician for help, but she dismissed me, saying I ate too much and offering no real support or encouragement. That was the turning point for me. I realized I had the power to take control of my health and advocate for myself.
How I Found Mexico Bariatric Center
Yvette referred her mother who got Mini Gastric Bypass with Dr. Jesus Ceja
My family has a history of heart disease, and I have been on medication for high cholesterol and high blood pressure since my late 20s. I understood that if I didn’t make a serious decision about my health, my body would force one on me, and I wouldn’t like it.
Paying the deposit for my mini bypass surgery was one of the scariest moments of my life. It wasn’t an easy decision. I truly understand how much courage it takes to decide to go forward and stick with it. Although it was frightening, it also was the bravest thing I’ve ever done.
Looking at my photos from before, I feel nothing but pride and gratitude for the person who made it happen. I was self-conscious, scared, and uncertain, but I knew I wanted a better life for myself and my family. Even today, I’m still in awe of who I’ve become and how my life has transformed with the help of Mexico Bariatric Center.
Traveling from Canada to Tijuana, Mexico
From the moment I stepped into the vehicle at the airport, I felt a sense of community and support. My driver was friendly and funny. I immediately connected with the other people in the van. We were all a bit nervous and excited, sharing laughs that probably sounded like nervous giggles. It brought us closer and helped us settle in.
If you’re worried about going through this alone without a companion, don’t be. Somebody will be there for you from the moment you arrive. The staff are warm and attentive, and they work hard to ensure you’re always comfortable and well taken care of. They constantly communicate with the doctors and respond quickly to questions or concerns.
My surgeon, Dr. Alejandro Gutierrez, was excellent—gentle, intelligent, and thorough. He answered all my questions and was very encouraging. I regret not getting a picture with the man who changed my life. He’s one of the people I’ll always be grateful to.
Before: June 2023 After: October 2024
Surgery Snapshot
Surgery Prescribed: Mini Gastric Bypass
Surgeon: Dr. Alejandro Gutierrez
Surgery Date: June 2023
Starting Weight: 242 lbs
Current Weight: 138 lbs
Goal Weight: 150 lbs
Mini Gastric Bypass Process
The mini gastric bypass is a modified version of the traditional RNY gastric bypass. During the procedure, the surgeon creates a small, tube-shaped stomach pouch and attaches it to a lower section of the small intestine, bypassing a portion of the digestive tract. This reduces the amount of food the patient can eat and decreases calorie absorption, promoting significant weight loss.
In the first two years after surgery, Mexico Bariatric Center patients have achieved an average of 85%* excess weight loss (EWL).
General Requirements:
- BMI 30+ or 80 lbs overweight
- 16-65 years old
- Realistic expectations regarding weight loss results
- Recommended for people who need gastric bypass but have heart or lung conditions
Mexico Bariatric Center’s all-inclusive mini gastric bypass package starts at $5,595*
My Life After Surgery
Where do I even start? I have lost 104 lbs. I’ve fallen in love with working out, running, and life. I have no more physical limitations. I can kayak, paraglide, ride go-karts, hike for hours, and swim without feeling embarrassed. My health is an entirely different story now. My blood pressure and cholesterol are normal levels, and I’m off all medications. I have no more acid reflux or knee pain. I sleep better than ever, and I don’t snore anymore. The list goes on!
Beyond the physical changes, my relationships have transformed. I’m a better wife and mother. If I could change one thing, I would have had the surgery earlier when my kids were younger. I missed so much because my size kept me on the sidelines. That’s a regret I’ll always carry. But I can’t get that time back. What I can do now is make new memories. This surgery has given me a fresh start in all aspects of my life.
The mental and emotional changes have been even more profound. Before the surgery, I often felt invisible and disregarded. After the surgery, I felt a shift in my confidence, happiness, and contentment. I can look people in the eye and speak up without shrinking inward, and people listen. As sad as it is, I’ve noticed that people treat me differently now that I’m at an average weight.
I’m more accepted, respected, and taken seriously. It breaks my heart to see someone struggling with the same feelings I used to have. When I see another bigger person who feels invisible or embarrassed, I make an effort to really listen and to show kindness. I want them to know, without words, “I see you. I respect you.”
A New Chapter
This journey has given me so much more than I ever expected. I’ve regained not just my health but also my joy, confidence, and sense of purpose. I’m living life fully now, and it’s incredible. THIS is what my life was always meant to be. If you’re considering this path, know that it’s not just about the weight you lose; it’s about the life you gain.
Watch the most recent Canadian weight loss surgery webinar to get more information and join the MBC Canada support group!
Related Articles:
- Gastric Bypass vs. Mini Gastric Bypass
- Mini Gastric Bypass vs Duodenal Switch
- Mini Gastric Bypass vs Mini Gastric Sleeve
MBC Staff Blogs:
Hi Yvete I’m in Montreal, QC. I’m worry of the hours on the plane and also the time to come back and be able to do
My normal
Life like drop my kids to school… can you tell me about this
Hi Ana! I will reach out to you via email about this! :) Thank you for reading my blog.