"I met Dr. Mark Paya at Bariatric orientation seminar in July 2004.  I went to see him for a consultation and together we discussed my alternatives for weight loss. Dr. Paya was extremely thorough in his discussion and I asked him many questions. He answered all of them, and I had a feeling that I could succeed with bariatric surgery.

As in the case with many bariatric patients, I had been obese for over 20 years and tried many food programs along with exercise routines. I could lose some weight, but I could not maintain the weight loss. On September 3, 2004, Dr. Mark Paya performed the Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery.

His care after the surgery was superb. I saw him both days while I was in the hospital. It has been 2 months since my surgery. I have used this surgery as a tool. I have been compliant with the food program and the exercising. This surgery has changed and improved my life. I have experienced excellent weight loss, increased energy, and more confidence. I am continuing to see Dr. Paya for follow up visits. We are both pleased with my success. I am willing to talk to anyone about this surgery that is interested."

"I can highly recommend the lap-band procedure and Dr. Paya as the surgeon to perform it. I have just finished the eight-week post surgery and have lost 28 pounds with and side effects. This procedure marks the beginning of a major lifestyle change for me. I am not hungry and am easily able to manage small food portions.

Although my weight loss is slower than if I had gastric bypass, the surgical procedure is far less invasive with fewer possible side effects. In any case rapid weight loss is not my goal. I view the band as an aid in getting my eating habits under control. Another plus is that I can have the band adjusted at any time if I begin to feel hungry or don’t get full after a small meal."

"I had to write you, in addition to telling you numerous times, how thrilled I am with the way you and your team handled my bariatric surgery. The thorough preparations, mentally and physically, enabled me to maintain a positive and excited attitude throughout. I can’t say enough about how helpful, kind and supportive your staff was and continues to be. Any fears were subsided by your confidence, skills, professionalism and compassion.

Although I am only six weeks out, the excitement and exhilaration I am feeling of an improving mental and physical image is beyond words. The pounds are flying off and everyone is noticing, especially me. Throughout my life, I have been through every diet program, every fad, every pill only to regain every pound, plus more. Thanks to you, those days are over and I have finally begun my “rebirth.” Thank you again for all your support."

"How do you thank a team of members enough after they give you a life? Dr. Paya has saved me. Four months after surgery, I’m down 50+ lbs, engaged, eating just about anything I want in very small portions, and I’m satisfied! This is the best I have felt and the happiest I have been in my life."

As many obese people have fought with their weight all their lives, I too have had an uphill battle to no avail. I had tried every diet imaginable and had not been successful long term. I finally reached a point in my life where I decided that I had to take action. That’s when my journey to weight loss surgery began.

From the first time that I visited Dr. Paya’s office to the follow-up after surgery, I have been utterly impressed with his professionalism and awesome staff members. The entire experience has been life changing and weight altering! I would highly recommend Dr. Paya to anyone who is interested in having weight loss surgery. He really seems to understand the concerns of his patients and is genuinely concerned for our health and well being. I have lost 61 pounds in 3 months and I owe it all to him. Thank you Dr. Paya and staff for giving me my life back!