I fluctuated in my weight a lot throughout my life and at a certain point realized I needed a more permanent solution. I depended on food to make me feel better emotionally; it was a coping mechanism for me. It’s not the same as alcoholism, but it is a coping mechanism just like smoking. At my heaviest, I could not get off the couch by sitting up. I would roll around to get up, but now I simply stand up without any problems. I used to wear a lot of oversized clothes, which I would order online because I didn’t want to go outside. My sluggishness and lack of confidence, combined with the tediousness of finding something to fit my size, held me back. My self-worth was low, and I didn’t feel I deserved to go out or date anyone.
It was my boss, who later became a close friend, who first told me about Dr. Davtyan. He had lap-band surgery and recommended it to family and friends. The collective experiences of the people I knew who went through trials and tribulations but found success with Dr. Davtyan inspired me to pursue the procedure as well.
The experience during the procedure was phenomenal. There was a genuinely kind and sincere assistant who welcomed me to the surgery center in Beverly Hills. Dr. Davtyan was very attentive and concerned about my comfort level both mentally and physically. He also repaired a sliding hernia on the same day, and I was very grateful for his thoroughness and generosity in taking care of it.
The recovery experience was as expected; the quoted recovery time was spot on. I was back to my physical work in no time, starting as soon as a week after the procedure, on a Monday.
The procedure has positively impacted my everyday life and relationships. I have more confidence to perform better at work and have a lighter step in my personal life. Getting my bounce back, I now go for walks, which is something I wouldn’t usually do before. I’m even considering getting a four-legged companion to accompany me on my walks. I go out to buy my clothes and try them on instead of ordering online. My energy levels have increased dramatically—I wake up sooner and go to bed later. I feel happier with myself, which has boosted my self-confidence.
Overall, my experience with Dr. Davtyan was lovely, personable, and sincere. He is a professional, outstanding, and phenomenal human being. He tells you what to expect, and is always spot on. He is personable because he had the lap band himself, and he shares his experiences, making it easy for me to relate to him. Because he has been doing this for 20 years, he is very knowledgeable in his field.
For anyone considering this procedure, you have to be sure you want this surgery. You need to be mentally ready to do this because if you aren’t, the lap band alone is not enough. You have to be mentally prepared to diet and exercise. It’s not the answer to excessive food consumption, but it can help you mentally break your addiction to food.