Gastric Sleeve Surgery Helps Patient Lose 120 Pounds and Kick Diabetes

Elizabeth Chambers spent more than 40 years trying diet after diet with no lasting results. Today, thanks to gastric sleeve surgery at BASS Bariatric Surgery Center in Walnut Creek, she is over 120 pounds lighter, diabetes-free, and living her healthiest life yet.

A Lifetime Struggle with Weight

Elizabeth remembers being placed on diets as early as age 8. The repeated cycles of dieting, regaining, and struggling with self-esteem left her exhausted and discouraged.

“I have been overweight since I was 8 years old,” Elizabeth recalls.

As an adult, her attempts grew more extreme — crash diets, unhealthy regimens, and desperate methods that never lasted. Each time, she regained the weight plus more.

Discovering Gastric Sleeve Surgery

When bariatric surgery first became popular, Elizabeth was skeptical.

“When people started getting the gastric bypass, I followed their successes and complications. I felt it was not for me. I didn’t feel safe,” she says.

That changed when she learned about gastric sleeve surgery, also known as sleeve gastrectomy.

Unlike gastric bypass, the sleeve procedure removes 75–80% of the stomach, reshaping it into a smaller tube that both limits food intake and reduces the hunger hormone ghrelin.

“Gastric sleeve was different and didn’t seem so intrusive. I studied the outcomes and finally decided it was something I was willing to do.”

Meeting Dr. Chin at BASS Bariatric Surgery Center

Elizabeth was referred to Dr. Brian Chin, bariatric surgeon at BASS Bariatric Surgery Center.

“Dr. Chin worked with me and my barriers to losing the weight I needed to before surgery. His diligence and non-judgmental attitude made me feel completely confident going into surgery.”

Her surgery went smoothly, with no complications and a quick recovery.

Life After Gastric Sleeve Surgery

Post-surgery, Elizabeth began building a new lifestyle:

• Eating smaller, nutrient-dense meals
• Preparing food at home instead of eating out
• Incorporating simple exercises daily at home, outdoors, and at work

The results were life-changing.

• Lost over 120 pounds
• Reversed type 2 diabetes
• Weaned off five blood pressure medications
• Gained energy, confidence, and freedom from constant bloating and fatigue

“I went from feeling bloated, lazy, and in pain to being a fabulous 48-year-old living a healthy life and feeling good.”

Elizabeth’s Advice to Others

Elizabeth encourages anyone considering bariatric surgery to treat it as the serious opportunity it is.

“The surgery is worth it if you’re willing to do whatever it takes. Don’t squander the chance — take the life change seriously.”

The Best Bariatric Care in Northern California

At BASS Bariatric Surgery Center, Dr. Brian Chin and Dr. Jason Moy have performed thousands of successful bariatric procedures with life-changing results. From gastric sleeve to gastric bypass and revision surgery, their experience and patient-first approach set them apart.

Call (925) 940-1052 today or request a consultation online to learn how bariatric surgery can transform your health.

Like Elizabeth, you deserve a second chance at a healthier, more fulfilling life.