Julie S's Story

“I had weight loss surgery in July of 2004 at Cedar’s Sinai Hospital with Dr. Khalili. My highest weight was 315 pounds. I had several complications due to the excess weight includes, high blood pressure, diabetes, sleep apnea, infertility, and depression. Since my weight loss surgery, I have lost a total of 180 pounds. 140 pounds was in the first 18 months after surgery and I was left with unsightly and uncomfortable hanging skin. That’s when I decided to see Dr. Katzen. As with weight loss surgery, I did my research. I consulted with 3 other surgeons prior to doctor Katzen and visited various websites in search of the right surgeon to meet my needs. Some told me that I was far beyond what plastic surgery could fix. And other’s told me that they could help me with the loose skin, but they didn’t have experience with WLS patients. When I saw Dr. Katzen, he was like a breath of fresh air. I was already discouraged about having surgery done, so I was so happy and excited to hear how familiar and experienced Dr. Katzen is with WLS patients. He talked with me, not at me, and made me feel at ease. He understood my concerns and truly listened to me with concern. I felt like I was with a long family friend, and I trusted him with my life. On November 11th, 2005, I had a circumferential body lift. Dr. Katzen removed approximately 20 pounds of excess skin and fat around my body and thighs and continued to loose another 10 pounds on my own. This makes my total weight loss of 180 pounds — GONE FOREVER!! I went from originally wearing a plus size 30/32 to now wearing a petite size 2.I am a new woman now. I have self confidence that I never knew was in me. I feel great, I like looking in mirror now, and shopping for clothes is the funnest thing I love to do! I am so grateful and completely happy with how Dr. Katzen has taken care of me. He truly understood my needs, and gave me the results that I always believed could never happen. Thank you Dr. Katzen!!”