Transform My Life After 150 lbs Weight Loss

Over the past 3 and a half years I have been on a life changing health journey.

Total I have lost 150 lbs!. This has left my body with a lot of sagging skin which I'd like to have removed through three surgeries totaling $50,000. Not only is the skin awkward, it can be sore and uncomfortable, it also hinders me from the physical activities I enjoy. Insurance will not pay for these surgeries as it is considered cosmetic, but I have found a great doctor in San Diego who I trust to help me undertake these next steps in my journey. 

Background

In February 2022, I underwent weight loss surgery which helped me to lose an initial 100 lbs. over 6 months. Since then, I've lost an additional 48 lbs. through diet and exercise. I have maintained my current weight of ~235 since February 2024 - 1 year and 4 months. I have done this through a commitment to running and weight training. I work out 5 days a week and have enjoyed seeing great progress! Since the surgery I am no longer diabetic, my blood pressure is now considered normal-low (120s/60s), and my overall health has never been better.

I ran my first half-marathon in September of 2023. My 2025 goal is to run one 5k each month which I am on track to do! The ability to run is something completely new to me and is freeing both physically and mentally. It has been life saving in many ways. The only hindrance is excess skin which causes chafing and necessitates many layers of compression which then causes other issues.

In November 2023, I was able to get insurance to cover a panniculectomy which removed 12 lbs. of skin from my abdomen. But, since this was an insurance covered procedure there were not finer plastic surgery techniques done like lipo or contouring. My surgeon was fantastic, but it was truly a general surgical procedure - not cosmetic. This left me with oddly placed fat deposits and scars in addition to excess skin around my love handles, thighs, and pubic area.

The next stage of my journey to align my body with my new life is through three surgeries: a back lift (~$15,600), a mond reduction (~$14,600), and chest reduction (~$17,200). The surgeon has suggested I do the back lift, heal for 6 months, then complete the second two together. My hope is to raise the money for the first surgery so I can have that in December 2025 with the second surgery in June 2026.

I know given everything happening in the world right now this seems frivolous, but I am committed to myself and this journey despite everything else. I think we owe it to ourselves to find a piece of joy in the midst of worry. I also appreciate that money is tight for so many but I hope those with the means - every little bit helps - can help me make this dream come true!