Weight-Loss Success Story: Gina Molina

Gina’s Weight Loss Journey

Gina shares that she struggled with weight gain for many years, especially after having children. Chronic knee and leg pain began affecting her ability to walk, climb stairs, travel, and enjoy everyday activities.

After trying diets and exercise without long-term success, Gina decided to explore bariatric surgery after hearing about a friend’s experience. She eventually connected with Dr. Brian Chin and the team at BASS Bariatric Surgery & Weight Management.

More than two years after surgery, Gina describes major improvements in her health, mobility, and daily life.

How Bariatric Surgery May Help

For appropriate candidates, bariatric surgery may help improve:

• Weight-related joint pain
• Mobility and activity levels
• Type 2 diabetes management
• Blood pressure
• Sleep apnea
• Overall quality of life

Successful long-term outcomes typically involve:

• Nutrition changes
• Ongoing follow-up care
• Exercise and activity
• Lifestyle modifications

Preparing for Bariatric Surgery

Before surgery, patients may work with their bariatric team on:

• Weight loss goals
• Nutrition counseling
• Medical evaluations
• Lifestyle changes
• Surgical education

Many programs focus on helping patients build healthy habits before and after surgery.

What Recovery May Look Like

Recovery experiences vary by patient and procedure, but many people are able to gradually return to daily activities within a few weeks.

Patients often work closely with:

• Surgeons
• Nutrition specialists
• Primary care providers
• Support staff

Ongoing follow-up care plays an important role in long-term success.

About Dr. Brian Chin

Dr. Brian Chin is a bariatric and minimally invasive surgeon at BASS Medical Group and BASS Bariatric Surgery & Weight Management. He specializes in bariatric surgery, minimally invasive procedures, and comprehensive weight management care.

Video Transcript

Hi, my name is Gina Molina. I'm 54 years old, and two and a half years ago, I had bariatric surgery.

Since then, I've lost 110 pounds, and I feel wonderful.

I’ve struggled with my weight my entire life, especially after having my children.

The one thing that affected me the most was the pain in my knees. It was hard to go up stairs or walk anywhere without being in constant pain.

My relationship with food was unhealthy. Every vacation revolved around food, and my eating habits were horrible.

I didn’t realize the toll it was taking on my body until I couldn’t lose weight, despite working out.

I even tried diets, but nothing worked.

That’s when a friend who had bariatric surgery told me about her transformation, and I decided to ask for her doctor’s information.

I ended up calling the wrong doctor, but it turned out to be the best decision for me.

Dr. Chin was amazing from the start.

On my first visit, without me mentioning anything about the pain in my legs, he had me stand up and walk. He immediately ordered an ultrasound for my legs, and after two procedures, the pain was gone.

That was just the beginning.

Dr. Chin helped me lose 20 pounds before surgery, which was a huge accomplishment.

The morning of surgery, I was nervous, but the staff took such great care of me.

The surgery itself was a breeze, and I had no pain afterward.

It was probably harder for me to lose the 20 pounds than the actual surgery itself.

Since my surgery, my quality of life has improved tremendously.

I’m more active, enjoy spending time with my family and grandkids, and I’m living in the moment.

I can travel without worrying about my legs hurting, and I look forward to going to the gym.

It has truly been the best decision I’ve ever made for myself.

Dr. Chin and his staff have been amazing throughout this entire journey. They were always responsive and supportive.

If you’re thinking about bariatric surgery, just do it.

It’s the best decision you can make for yourself, and you’ll have a great experience like I did.

Read More Bariatric Success Stories

Explore additional patient experiences with weight loss surgery at BASS Bariatric Surgery & Weight Management.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much weight can patients lose after bariatric surgery?

Weight loss varies depending on the procedure, lifestyle changes, and individual health factors.

Can bariatric surgery help joint pain?

Weight loss may help reduce pressure on the joints and improve mobility for some patients.

Is bariatric surgery only for weight loss?

No. Bariatric surgery may also help improve obesity-related health conditions and overall quality of life.

How long does bariatric surgery recovery take?

Recovery varies, but many patients return to normal daily activities within several weeks.