For years, Bruce Van Tassel struggled with his weight, but it wasn’t until November of 2022 that he decided to make a change after a discussion at a primary care appointment.
“Within a week, I had an appointment with Valley LifeStart: The Center for Weight and Wellness™ where we went over different options and talked about what I was looking for,” said Bruce. “I had friends who had weight-loss surgery, so I had some ideas, but was guided to what was right for me.”
The Bergenfield, New Jersey native spoke with Edward Yatco, MD, Medical Director of Robotic and Minimally Invasive Surgery for Valley Medical Group and Subspecialty Director of Bariatric Surgery for The Valley Hospital, and together they decided a sleeve gastrectomy would be best. In this surgery, approximately 80% of the stomach is removed, creating a smaller stomach. Through this surgical technique, weight loss is achieved through decreased portion sizes and changes in the body’s gut hormones that control and regulate hunger and satiety, the state of feeling full.
In April of 2023, Bruce underwent a successful laparoscopic robotic-assisted sleeve gastrectomy. He spent one night in The Valley Hospital.
“The surgery went well and everyone at Valley kept me informed and answered any questions I had,” said Bruce. “I was put in touch with a nutritionist, which has been incredibly helpful. Everyone I came into contact with was very responsive, helpful, and friendly.”
Bruce had regular follow-up appointments immediately after surgery and continues to eat a healthy diet, take vitamins, and lift weights.
Over a year out from surgery, Bruce has lost over 160 pounds, going from a body mass index (BMI) of 48.7 to 26.1 and dropping his body fat percentage from 44.6 to 14.1. He emphasizes the importance of staying active, watching what he eats, and adjusting his mindset to remain successful.
“This surgery was a reset button for me. If you had told me two years ago that I would be at the weight I am now, I would not believe you,” said Bruce. “I love amusement parks and have not been able to enjoy them in years, but now I can. It is a dream come true, and my biggest regret is not doing this sooner. If anyone is thinking about making a change like this, call Valley, follow what they say, put in the work, and you will see results.”
For more information about surgical weight loss options at Valley, please visit ValleyHealth.com/WeightLoss.