- Name: Julie Mendez
- Age: 47
- Surgery: Gastric Sleeve
- Surgery date: August 11th, 2017
- Testimonial date: September 26th, 2017
- Surgeon: Dr. Galileo Villarreal
I had my procedure 8/11/2017 I was weighing 256lbs. I drive to Laredo. Our driver picked us up and drove us across. No problems. We went to the hospital and did my pre op.xray. lab work then to the hotel to rest. Woke up went to the hospital at 0700. Surgery at 0800. My Dr was there every step of the way.He spoke English very well and his nurse Karen was outstanding!!! I woke up in my room.Not in very much pain but was told I needed to walk to get the gas out. So I did. It really works.2 days in the hospital and barium swallow test was done. No leaking! Yay!!!! I was discharged Sunday and taken across the border.got home in 6 hours.and been walking ever since.I'm done to 222 fitting into a size 14. Did my follow up with my pcp. This has been an awesome journey for me.I'm no longer taking diabetic medication.and soon I get to go to the gym.I am swimming but no other exercise until my 8 weeks.the diet was hard at first but now it's easy.I haven't had not one complication. Of your thinking about this surgery and safety issues please feel free to call me.I'm a nurse also and did my research. Best decision I made for me!!!!