Working two jobs on her feet all day, Denise of Ocean County, NJ, lost more than 150 pounds the first year after gastric sleeve surgery
“One year ago today, I had bariatric surgery…. 163 lbs down and I feel amazing… I still have a long way to go, but it’s amazing what a difference a year makes… I want to thank Dr. Seun Sowemimo and my family and friends for your support… Here’s to the next year and inching toward my goal of health and happiness!”
-Denise Hirth on Facebook (September 2023)
Denise Hirth is a busy woman, working on her feet at CentraState Medical Center and also managing the Deli department at a local grocery store. Her long battle with weight began to take its toll once she hit her 40s. She knew she qualified for surgical weight loss—but which bariatric surgeon was right for her?
Going directly to the source for a bariatric surgeon recommendation
With the benefit of working at a hospital, she sought the expertise of a trustworthy resource—the nurses who work in the OR. “They immediately recommended Dr. Sowemimo without a moment’s hesitation,” Denise, who lives in Ocean County, explains. “And my primary care doctor also seconded their recommendation.” After consulting with Dr. Seun and obtaining her surgical clearances, Denise took a leave of absence to focus on her own health in September 2022.
Weighing 440 pounds at the time of surgery, Denise had a vertical sleeve gastrectomy (VSG or gastric sleeve) and began her weight loss journey.
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“I don’t have anything dramatic to report about my first year after surgery, other than the fact that I lost 163 pounds,” Denise says with a smile. “Dr. Seun’s process is laid out for you from start to finish, so all you have to do is follow it.”
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Two significant improvements in Denise’s nutrition have been giving up soda (which she never thought was possible) and eating mostly a plant-based diet with Dr. Seun’s guidance. “I still eat chicken once a week, but I don’t need much anymore,” Denise explains.
Learn more about Dr. Seun’s Weight Loss Plan online course
“I realized the other day that I haven’t been the weight I am now since middle school—which definitely motivates me to keep going.”
At age 46, Denise has already dropped six clothing sizes. As she looks ahead to year two after bariatric surgery, her goal is simple: “I’ll continue to stick with what is working and introduce some weight training to begin to firm up,” she notes. “I’m excited about making my body stronger, which will also give me the energy I need. All I know for certain is that the best is yet to come.”
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Considering weight loss surgery?
Great! Start by watching Dr. Sowemimo’s Bariatric Surgery 101 Webinar. Then call our friendly bariatric team at 732-414-2707 to schedule a private consultation with Dr. Seun to talk about your weight loss goals. You’ll learn more about our exclusive Bariatric Success Program, which gives you all the tools (and more!) to chart your journey to weight loss VICTORY in 2024!