Hussein’s Gastric Sleeve Journey

Hussein’s story

Rediscovering the joy of exercise, and being able to keep up with his daughters

Like many people living with obesity, Hussein suffered from several obesity-related medical issues. However, it wasn’t until he realized just how much his weight was affecting the time he spent with his daughters, that Hussein made the life-changing decision to have gastric sleeve surgery.

He looked into having surgery abroad, then chose 360 Sleeve in Toronto after reading its reviews.

Before Hussein’s surgery, he weighed 307 lbs. and was looking for pants with a waist size of 48. After the surgery, he dropped to 141 lbs. (currently weighing in at 166 lbs.) and is happy to say he now wears a size 30.

Since having the surgery, he’s transformed his lifestyle: he now works out six days a week and is more active than ever. Most importantly, Hussein is healthy and can fully enjoy life with his family, keeping up with his daughters and being the dad he’s always wanted to be.

“I can run for 12 km, I’m squatting 350 lbs, I’m deadlifting 400 lbs.”

“I can go [shopping] anywhere and try clothes off the rack, and it fits me.”

Before and after

Individual results vary. This is one patient’s experience, not a promise of yours: your surgeon talks you through what to expect at a free consultation.

What to know

The topic behind Hussein’s journey, in general terms: what usually matters, what your surgeon looks at and questions worth asking.

Step by step

• Week 1: short walks at home or outside, a little more each day.
• Weeks 2 to 4: gentle stretching and light exercise with your team's OK. Nothing heavier than about 10 lb (4.5 kg) until your surgeon clears you.
• Weeks 4 to 8: once cleared, more cardio, such as brisk walking or cycling, about 30 minutes 3 times a week.
• From week 8: strength training, starting light and building slowly.

In studies, people who exercised after bariatric surgery gained fitness and strength and lost a little more weight. Sip fluids before and after activity, and stop if you feel dizzy or weak.

Moving with your family

Activity does not have to mean a gym. Walks after dinner, the playground, a bike ride or a swim once your incisions have healed all count, and they are easier to keep when they are part of family time.

Skin and clothes

After a large weight loss, some loose skin is expected. Strength training can firm up how arms, legs and shoulders look, but it cannot tighten stretched skin. Clothes sizes change quickly in the first year, so many people buy a few pieces at a time.

Care close to home

Some people look at surgery abroad. Wherever you go, plan how follow-ups, blood tests and any complications will be handled once you are home. The Government of Canada warns that provincial health plans and travel insurance may not cover care received abroad.

Questions to ask

• When can I lift, swim or go back to my usual sport?
• Who can help me start strength training safely?
• What is in my aftercare plan, and for how long?