These testimonials showcase the outcomes of Tulane Weight Loss Center’s multidisciplinary approach to medical and surgical weight loss, where individualized treatment plans help patients achieve lasting health improvements and meaningful life changes.
Joseph Blake Davenport
SADI-S
I had SADI-S surgery on July 21, 2025, with Dr. Levy. I have lost 120 pounds since starting my weight loss journey.
Non-scale victories include:
- No longer taking NSAIDs daily because my osteoarthritis no longer bothers me
- No longer needing a seatbelt extender when flying
- My CPAP settings decreased from 15 psi to 4 psi
- No longer experiencing shortness of breath when walking long distances
- No longer needing medications for hypertension, gastric reflux, or diabetes
- Shirt size decreased from 3X to L
- Pants size decreased from 44 to 34
I chose Tulane Weight Loss Surgery because my primary care doctor recommended it, and a personal friend who is a surgery resident also encouraged me to consider it. After my initial consultation, I knew they would make my journey easier because everything was clearly explained to patients from start to finish.
The entire process went smoothly. Tulane Bariatric has been an amazingly great experience.
Sandy Hebert
Gastric Bypass
I struggled with my weight after having my children and never really lost the baby weight. I work with kids and often had trouble keeping up with them. I started wearing slip-on shoes because tying them was becoming a challenge, and getting off the floor was embarrassing to do in front of people.
I work at a public library, so I see people daily and often felt judged about my weight — or at least felt like I was. I lead crafts and activities with children, and I finally decided to do something for the long term to help myself. I didn’t want a shot that might or might not work, especially knowing that if I ever stopped taking it, I could gain the weight back plus more. I wasn’t looking for a miracle cure or quick-fix drug.
I called for a consultation with the Tulane Weight Loss Center, and it was the best decision of my life. There’s no looking back now — I’m going to keep pushing forward.
The team at Tulane introduced me to the eating habits that needed to change and the routines that needed to be created. Dr. Levy listened to what I had to say, and we agreed that gastric bypass would be in my best interest.
Before surgery, I had fluid on my legs and mild sleep apnea — now both are gone. I’m walking much more, I have significantly more energy, and I’m eating less while still maintaining my goals. I’m no longer eating because I’m bored.
My surgery was on July 1, 2025, and I’ve lost 88 pounds so far. This isn’t the end of my journey — it’s just the beginning of a lifetime. I have my life back, thanks to the team at Tulane.
Shakita Carter
Duodenal Switch
Hi, my name is Shakita Carter. I was a patient at the Tulane Weight Loss Center. My surgery date was August 13, 2024, and I underwent Duodenal Switch surgery.
At the time of my surgery, I weighed 358 pounds. As of January 8, 2026, I weigh 207 pounds, for a total weight loss of 151 pounds so far. I feel more refreshed and overall better physically.
Before weight loss surgery, I had severe sleep apnea. Since the surgery, I’ve experienced major improvements. I no longer have to sleep with a CPAP machine, and my rest is no longer interrupted.
I find that I have far more energy than before. I used to have to take breaks and sit down as often as possible. Now, I’m constantly on the go without needing breaks or hesitation.
I’ve always been a confident woman, but the surgery has definitely boosted my confidence to a new level. I am forever grateful to the Tulane Weight Loss Center for the opportunity it gave me and my life.
Heidi Corley
SADI
I had SADI surgery on May 6, 2024, which was truly the best decision I have ever made for myself. Since then, I’ve lost 100 pounds, and my quality of life has completely changed.
I no longer wake up in pain or end the day with back and knee pain. I’m off my high blood pressure medication, my migraines are almost nonexistent, and I can do things I once took for granted — like crossing my legs and tying my own shoes. In just seven months, my shirt size went from 4XL to size L, and my pants went from size 24 to size 14, which still amazes me.
I was referred to Tulane by a friend who had the surgery, and the way she spoke about the doctors and nurses gave me so much confidence. From the moment I made my first call in January 2024, everyone was kind, supportive, and never once made me feel ashamed of the weight I had gained.
Dr. Levy is absolutely amazing — she always took the time to explain everything clearly and made me feel comfortable every step of the way. I truly couldn’t have done this without Mrs. Casey and Mrs. Quinn. They were always there to answer my questions, ease my concerns, and offer constant support throughout the process.
I know without a doubt that I chose the perfect place for my surgery, and I would 100% recommend Tulane to anyone considering weight-loss surgery. This experience has changed my life for the better, and I am forever grateful.
Aurua Alvarado
Gastric Bypass
Back in 2022, I decided that it was time to finally do something about my weight. I had been overweight all my life, but for the first time in 50 years, the scale read 358 pounds.
In April 2022, I reached out to Tulane Weight Loss Center and made my first appointment. I had already gone to other clinics, the last one in 2020, but at Tulane, I felt heard, cared for, and educated.
My surgery, a bypass, was in September 2023, and I have already lost over 100 pounds — from 358 pounds to 230 pounds. My goal is to reach 200 pounds by the end of 2026 and, of course, maintain my new weight.
This journey is just at the beginning, but I have already celebrated several non-scale victories:
- No more seatbelt extenders
- Size 14 jeans, down from size 26
- Walking 10,000 steps in one day
These are just three of my victories.
Thank you again, Tulane Weight Loss Center
Thank you, Tulane. Gracias por devolverme mi salud.



