Myth: Weight loss surgery and medications offer instant results and do not require lifestyle changes.
Bruce Young would come to disprove this myth, learning that medical weight loss options are designed to complement healthy eating and exercise. They are not replacements for lifestyle modifications, such as diet and exercise.
Bruce first came to Valley for help with losing weight in 2021.
He underwent a successful sleeve gastrectomy at The Valley Hospital. In this restrictive surgery, approximately 70-80% of the stomach is removed, creating a smaller stomach. Weight loss is achieved through decreased portion sizes and changes in the body’s hormone, ghrelin, which controls and regulates hunger and satiety, the state of feeling full.
Bruce lost more than 100 pounds. However, over the years, after enduring different medical issues and not incorporating consistent lifestyle changes, he gained weight back and lost the ability to walk in December of 2024. He was admitted to the hospital and, as a result of being immobile and in the hospital, lost over 50 pounds.
“I needed to get my knee replaced because I was too heavy. I also have diabetes. Because of this, I realized I needed to go back to the weight loss program at Valley,” said the 76-year-old.
Bruce made an appointment at Valley LifeStart: The Center for Weight and Wellness™ to discuss his options and met with Naser Gharaibeh, MD, Medical Director of the Metabolic Medicine and Weight Loss Program for Valley Health System.
Valley LifeStart works with patients to evaluate the many traditional and evolving treatments for weight loss and customize treatments based on the patient’s medical history, family history, lifestyles, and personal preference. Valley LifeStart provides patients with the tools to lose weight successfully, maintain success, and live healthier, fuller lives.
Dr. Gharahibeh and Bruce decided to move forward with medical weight management, including GLP-1 medications Metformin and Wegovy. Bruce has gone from 335 pounds to 229 pounds since starting.
“My A1C (measure of average blood sugar levels over the past three months) has gone down, and they were able to clear me for my knee replacement in March because of the results I have had,” said Bruce. “I am still continuing to lose weight. I have had a fantastic experience at Valley LifeStart.”
Bruce will continue to use medical weight management and lifestyle changes.
“These are not cures, but tools. If you continue to live the way you are living, surgical and medical weight management options will not do what they are supposed to do in helping you lose weight,” said Bruce. “This journey is a mindset, so listen to your doctor, follow the plan, and tell yourself that you are going to do this successfully, and do it!”
For more information about weight loss options offered through Valley LifeStart, please visit ValleyHealth.com/WeightLoss.