Patient Stories

“Having struggled with hypothyroidism, PCOS, and irregular menstrual cycles, I found myself gaining significant weight.

As a child, I was always on the fuller side and faced bullying because of my weight. Over time, a series of life events, including a stressful divorce and becoming a single mother, led me to emotionally eat. I was never satisfied with my appearance and tried countless solutions – from being active and eating less, to going fully vegan, and experimenting with various diets – all to no avail.

The weight began to take a toll on both my physical and mental health. In search of a solution, I researched bariatric gastric sleeve surgery. What truly convinced me was seeing my cousin’s incredible transformation after undergoing the same surgery. I was inspired and decided this might be the right path for me.

Further research showed that the surgery could help reduce the effects of PCOS, promote rapid weight loss, and balance my hormones.

I originally had an appointment with another bariatric surgeon, but after reading about Better Life Surgery online, I felt a strong connection to their team. I called and spoke with Maryanne, whose supportive, attentive, and non-judgmental attitude made me feel comfortable. It was then I decided to switch and make an appointment with Better Life Surgery.

From the moment I walked in, I was welcomed warmly by Dr. Mo Atalla, Maryanne, and the dietitian, Janet. I didn’t feel like just another patient; I felt listened to and supported. Dr. Atalla truly understood my needs and helped me make an informed decision about the surgery.

After discussing with my partner and family, including my daughter, I made the decision to go ahead with the surgery and paid to move forward.

Motivated and determined, I followed the pre-surgery plan with Optifast shakes and a vegetable stew that Janet had guided me on, and I lost 6kg in the first two weeks.

Just before the surgery, I had doubts and almost backed out. I called my cousin, who reassured me, and I reminded myself of the reasons I had chosen this path. When I arrived at the hospital, I was nervous, but Dr. Atalla’s calm and reassuring presence helped me stay focused and grounded in my decision.

The surgery went smoothly, and I woke up to see Dr. Atalla checking in on me, which reassured me further. Recovery was smooth, and I focused on the process of learning and adapting to my new life.

Whenever I felt overwhelmed or frustrated, I took a step back to remind myself of the reasons behind my decision. Nearly a year later, my weight has dropped dramatically, and I’ve noticed significant changes, both emotionally and physically. I’ve received compliments from others and feel more confident in myself. I’ve even started wearing lighter clothes, just as I promised Dr. Atalla I would.

I’ve also pursued a small coaching course to become a coach/counselor, hoping to help others navigate their health journeys and consider surgeries like this one.

I’m blessed to have a loving fiancé who has supported me through every stage, from my heaviest to now. Most importantly, I am happy with the person I’ve become. My menstrual cycles are now mostly regular, and I feel more in control of my health.

My advice for anyone considering this surgery is to be mentally prepared and resilient. Eating smaller meals can sometimes be challenging, and I occasionally experience discomfort, but it’s all part of the learning process.

I will forever be grateful to Dr. Atalla, Marianne, and the entire team at Better Life Surgery for their guidance, support, and care.

With gratitude,
Desanka Ogrizovic”

“It’s now been a year since my surgery, and after visiting Dr. Mo, Marianne, and Rebecca East for my one-year anniversary checkup, I can’t believe the transformation. As you can see from my before-and-after photos, my life, my relationships, and my attitude have changed dramatically.

The comfort I feel now—both physically and emotionally—is incredible. Not only has the pain in my joints decreased and my mobility increased, but even little things like sitting comfortably on public transport next to my wonderful, supportive husband have become so much easier. Attending footy games (Go Blues!) is now a pleasure instead of a challenge. It’s the small things, like being able to enjoy life without constantly worrying about my size, that a "normal" sized person takes for granted.

Dr. Mo has been my savior. It may sound dramatic, but it’s the truth. The weight loss surgery has truly given me my life back. While any other bariatric surgeon could have performed the surgery, none would have provided the level of support and care that Dr. Mo and his team have.

I’ve now lost 38.25 kg and gone from a size 22 to a size 12/14. For reference, I’m 67 years young and feeling younger with each passing day.

To anyone sitting on the fence about surgery, I encourage you to take the leap. As Nike says, "Just Do It." You won't find a better surgeon or support team to guide you through this journey.

Once again, thank you to Dr. Mo, Marianne, Bec, Janet, and the entire team for everything you’ve done for me and my husband.”

“My Journey with BetterLife Surgery

I began my journey with BetterLife Surgery in March 2024. From coordinating appointments and managing documentation, Marianne has been a wonderful support throughout the process. Mo is a personable, knowledgeable, and highly skilled bariatric surgeon who has been there for me every step of the way, both before and after surgery. Bec, the nurse practitioner, and Janet, the dietitian, complete the incredible team. Together, they work seamlessly to support bariatric patients and help them achieve the best possible outcomes.

So far, my journey has transformed me from a fatigued, 137.5kg woman into a 97.5kg woman who is loving life. It has been a slow and steady process, but I am confident I will reach my goal of losing another 17.5kg. I’m no longer focused on how long it takes—I'm too busy enjoying the best life I can.

Thank you, Mo and the entire team, for giving me this life-changing opportunity and for supporting me throughout my weight loss surgery journey. You've truly given me my life back.”

“Dr. Mo literally saved my life. The way I was heading, I would’ve been dead within a few years. Since he helped me lose 65kg, my mobility has improved more than I ever thought possible. I’ve stopped taking many of my medications, and my diabetes is now in remission. I no longer need to rely on a podiatrist to cut my toenails, and I don’t use a walking stick to get out of my recliner anymore.

I can even run again, for a little while, and work long shifts without getting tired. I’m pretty sure my sleep apnea is nearly gone—I just need to rest to confirm that. Overall, I feel amazing—probably the best I’ve ever felt in my entire life.

I can’t thank Dr. Mo enough for the care he’s shown me. If you’ve struggled with weight loss for a long time, do yourself a favor: get Gold Cover private health insurance, wait the 12 months, and get the surgery. You won’t regret it once you’ve healed. Talk to others about their experiences and spend those 12 months preparing your mindset.

Good luck on your journeys, everyone! Xx”

“It’s almost been three years since my Gastric Sleeve surgery, and Mo and the team continue to inspire me every time I visit. So much has changed in every aspect of my life.

Yes, the goal was to lose weight, but more importantly, I was given the tools to make this journey a success. There’s so much more to this process than just shedding the pounds.

There have been many changes I didn’t anticipate. The tools provided me with more than just physical transformation—they’ve helped me mentally navigate all the changes I needed to make. From how I eat to the clothes I wear, to my physical appearance and activities, everything has shifted.

I used to hate going clothes shopping, going to the gym, being around people I didn’t know, and I despised having my photo taken. I was the person who would sit in the back row, staying in the shadows.

Today, I love going to the gym, shopping, and having the energy to play with my grandchildren. But most of all, I now walk into a room full of strangers with so much more confidence.

A huge thanks to Mo and the entire team for helping me transform my life.”

“Before photos and after photos, 3 years ago 120kgs now 60kgs never felt better. Everyone calls me the little pocket rocket because l never stop. Can't thank you enough mo and your awesome team, been 3 years on and things just keep getting better 😊 my mental health and happiness hav never been better. thankyou for changing my life for good”