SamanthaC12

So for me, my BMI was a bit lower than what most doctors would consider for the VSG surgery. I really didn't want to go that route anyway. So, I was excited to learn about the ESG. It took me a LONG time to get my expectations in line. My friend had the gastric bi-pass and loss massive weight very quickly and I guess I had that in my head. But, she started out 100 pounds heavier than I did. While logically I knew I wouldn't drop weight that fast, somehow I kept being disappointed by slow and steady progress.
Even if I'd qualified for the VSG, I'd go the ESG route again. I'm still 20 pounds from my goal weight, but I'm fine with that. I've gone from a very tight size 16 to a comfortable 10. The most important thing is I'm comfortable in my skin for the first time since my early 20's.
My advice is don't wait. You can debate for another year and it will be putting your life on hold that much longer. You likely know in the back of your mind which route is the way you want to go. Pull the trigger and get things moving. Set realistic expectations. Do not expect this to be an easy fix. Instead of thinking of it as making weight loss easy, think of it as making weight loss completely possible and within reach. It will be hard and you will have set backs, even early on. This group helped me so much knowing it was just that, a small set back.
This is by far the best thing I've ever done for myself. Either route you choose will change your life for the better. Good luck!

So for me, my BMI was a bit lower than what most doctors would consider for the VSG surgery. I really didn't want to go that route anyway. So, I was excited to learn about the ESG. It took me a LONG time to get my expectations in line. My friend had the gastric bi-pass and loss massive weight very quickly and I guess I had that in my head. But, she started out 100 pounds heavier than I did. While logically I knew I wouldn't drop weight that fast, somehow I kept being disappointed by slow and steady progress.
Even if I'd qualified for the VSG, I'd go the ESG route again. I'm still 20 pounds from my goal weight, but I'm fine with that. I've gone from a very tight size 16 to a comfortable 10. The most important thing is I'm comfortable in my skin for the first time since my early 20's.
My advice is don't wait. You can debate for another year and it will be putting your life on hold that much longer. You likely know in the back of your mind which route is the way you want to go. Pull the trigger and get things moving. Set realistic expectations. Do not expect this to be an easy fix. Instead of thinking of it as making weight loss easy, think of it as making weight loss completely possible and within reach. It will be hard and you will have set backs, even early on. This group helped me so much knowing it was just that, a small set back.
This is by far the best thing I've ever done for myself. Either route you choose will change your life for the better. Good luck!

I'm from Central Florida and did a ton of research before selecting a doctor. The only place I felt comfortable with in Florida was mayo Clinic, but the price was insanely high. I ended up going to Dr. McGowan in Raleigh, NC. I flew in with my sister the day before the procedure. Had the procedure on a Friday, a nurse came to my hotel on Saturday to give me IV fluids, and I flew out on Sunday. McGowan and his staff are top notch. Their costs are 10 - 12k, depending on which package you pick. For example, the highest priced one includes 1 year of complication insurance, unlimited visits with the nutritionist, etc. I knew I'd have a ton of questions for the nutritionist, so I went that route.

I am sticking to the plan and tracking my food intake through myfitnesspal. Thank you for the encouragement. And congrats on how far you've come in your journey!