Over the past 3 and a half years I have been on a life changing health journey.
Since February 2022, I have lost nearly 150 lbs. (146). 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 also henders me from the physical activites 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. I could obtain the surgeries cheaper in other countries, but my hope to stay in the US. Can you help me make these next steps possible?
Background
In February 2022, I underwent weight loss surgery which helped me to loose 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 goals 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 has freeing both physically and mentally. It has been life saving in many ways. The only hinderance is excess skin which causes chaffing 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 a insurance covered procedure there was 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 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 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!
