Bariatric Surgery Success Story: Gina Molina Lost 110 Pounds

At 54 years old, Gina Molina had tried everything to lose weight. Decades of diets, endless exercise plans, and even medical checkups that gave her no clear answers left her discouraged. Weighing 278 pounds and living in constant knee pain, she finally found hope at BASS Bariatric Surgery Center in Walnut Creek. Today, Gina is 110 pounds lighter and enjoying a new life of energy, health, and confidence.

A Lifetime of Weight Struggles

Gina had battled her weight since childhood, but after having children, the challenges grew. Her lifestyle revolved around food, with vacations and outings planned around what to eat next.

“Everywhere I went it was based on food — pizza in New York, beignets in New Orleans, burritos in San Francisco. It just wasn’t healthy, and it showed in my weight,” she recalls.

Her eating habits took a toll on her health. Climbing stairs left her breathless, her knees ached constantly, and even daily walks were painful.

Even worse, despite going to the gym, her body resisted change.

“My workout partner lost 40 pounds. I lost one. I was done — there was no other way.”

Meeting Dr. Brian Chin

Everything changed when Gina saw a friend who had bariatric surgery. Inspired, she asked for a referral and—by chance—ended up calling the wrong office. That “mistake” connected her with the right surgeon for her: Dr. Brian Chin at BASS Bariatric Surgery Center.

At her first appointment, Dr. Chin noticed something Gina hadn’t even mentioned: leg pain caused by vein issues. He immediately ordered an ultrasound, and Gina soon had procedures that eliminated her pain before surgery even began.

“It amazed me how he knew without me saying anything. He cared about all of me, not just my weight,” Gina says.

Preparing for Surgery

Before surgery, Gina needed to lose 20 pounds — a number that felt impossible after years of failed attempts.

With Dr. Chin’s guidance, a structured plan of protein shakes, exercise, and careful nutrition finally worked. For the first time, she hit her pre-surgery goal and felt hopeful about the journey ahead.

The Day of Surgery

Gina’s surgery took place during the COVID-19 pandemic, meaning she had to go in alone. Despite her nerves, the care team kept her calm and comfortable.

“It was probably harder to lose the 20 pounds than the actual surgery,” she laughs. “I had no pain, was up walking, and felt good right away.”

Life After Bariatric Surgery

The transformation went beyond weight loss. Gina’s quality of life improved dramatically:

• 110 pounds lost and counting
• No more knee or leg pain
• Increased energy and confidence
• Ability to enjoy time with her grandchildren and family
• Active lifestyle, including going to the gym and walking without pain

“I no longer live around food — I live in the moment. The best decision I’ve ever made for myself.”

Gina’s Advice for Others

For anyone considering bariatric surgery, Gina’s message is simple:

“If you’re on the fence, just do it. It’s the best thing you can do for yourself. Dr. Chin and his staff made my journey amazing, and I couldn’t be more grateful.”

The Best Bariatric Care in Northern California

At BASS Bariatric Surgery Center, Dr. Brian Chin and Dr. Jason Moy have helped thousands of patients just like Gina. From consultation through recovery, their expertise and compassion make them leaders in bariatric care.

Call (925) 940-1052 or request a consultation online today to learn if bariatric surgery is right for you.

Like Gina, you deserve a healthier, more fulfilling life.