Life After Gastric Sleeve Surgery: My Comeback Story of Healing and Growth

Whew, where do I even begin? After getting my gastric sleeve surgery, I thought I’d bounce back quickly, but life had other plans. I recently looked through my blog posts and realized I haven’t written anything since April 2023. I only published seven times that year. I started strong, but once the surgery happened, I completely disappeared. I knew the year had been mentally draining, but I didn’t realize how much it really affected me until I looked back.

2024 Was a Rollercoaster

Let’s be honest…2025 came in swinging.

I tried dating again, and let me tell you, that experience was the definition of a red-flag parade. I usually leave at the first sign of nonsense, but for some reason, I kept giving this guy chance after chance. People around me kept saying he was a great guy, but the truth is, he lied. A lot!!!

The twist? We were still friends after the breakup, until recently. We’ve known each other forever, and I do believe he’s a good person, just not a good person to me. He did show up when I needed help after surgery and took care of me when I returned to Georgia. I’ll give him that. But relationship-wise, I finally had to admit we couldn’t even be friends. I decided to move on. Now, dating after him was also eventful! I dated one guy who ended up keying my truck. Like, seriously!!! Now, I’m just working and minding my business. I don’t need the drama.

I Lost 90 Pounds After VSG and Had Surgery in the Dominican Republic

Yes, you read that right. I lost 90 pounds after my gastric sleeve procedure.

As part of my transformation, I traveled to the Dominican Republic for a tummy tuck and liposuction in September 2024. I asked my surgeon to contour my shape without doing a full BBL. While the results were great, the recovery was a journey. I developed a seroma in my lower abdomen that lingered for almost six months. Healing wasn’t linear, but I’m finally feeling better and stronger every day. I love the way I look and am considering another surgery to have the girls lifted.

Tip: If you’re considering plastic surgery after weight loss, make sure you understand the full recovery process, especially if you’re traveling for surgery.

Back in School and Managing Anxiety

Despite everything going on, I decided to go back to school. And honestly? I’m thriving.

Dealing with anxiety while juggling schoolwork has been challenging, but I’ve been intentional about pushing through. I’m proud to say my grades are strong, and I’m finally doing something for me that aligns with my long-term goals. I’ve managed to get my GPA to a 4.0, which allowed me to get the Dean’s approval to increase my course load. This moved my graduation from January 2027 to August 2026. I’m excited about that and what comes after.

My Natural Hair Journey Had a Setback

I wasn’t expecting this one.

After months of wearing my hair in tight buns (yes, the lazy natural life got me), I noticed my ends were thinning badly. It hurt my soul, but I had to do a major trim. My hair sat just above bra strap length. I’ve officially restarted my natural hair growth journey, and I had another setback. I decided to have my hair colored since it was healthy again. The first time she colored it, it looked good, but needed a small tweak. Somehow, she completely miscolored my hair, didn’t tone it, and damaged my curls. That sent me into a bit of a funk because I didn’t want to cut my hair. I’m fighting to regain the health of my hair. Once, it gets to a point where I’m satisfied, I will recolor it myself. I still want to grow my hair out, and I aim to reach tailbone length again.

Hair Tip: Protective styles are great, but make sure you’re not sacrificing your ends in the process.

My Personal Goals for the Rest of 2025

Now that I’ve reset my mindset and routines, I’m setting intentional goals to close the year strong. Here’s what I’m working on:

Post weekly on all platforms (Instagram, blog, YouTube)
Lose 15 more pounds and reach 159–160 lbs
Regrow my hair to tailbone length with consistent care

Final Thoughts: This is My Comeback Season

2023 and 2024 came with challenges, growth, healing, and more self-awareness than I ever expected. But I’m standing tall: physically, emotionally, and spiritually. I’m ready to share more, connect more, and keep showing up as my most authentic self.

If you’re going through a transformation, healing from surgery, or just starting over like me, know that you’re not alone.

We’re doing this together.

Thanks for reading. Be sure to follow along as I continue this next chapter of healing and growth!