Sleeve vs SIPS: Two Bariatric Surgeries, One Friendship

As I continue sharing my rediscovered 2018 bariatric videos on Bariatric Living 101, today’s video holds a very special place in my heart.

In this throwback video, I’m joined by my friend Penny. Penny and I met at the bariatric center and ended up having our surgeries on the exact same day. While we walked into surgery together, we chose two different bariatric procedures. I had Sleeve Gastrectomy, and Penny chose SIPS.

A Quick Protein Taste Test Before the Talk

Before our discussion begins, I share a quick taste test of a protein pudding I picked up from Aldi and give my honest thoughts. Finding protein-focused foods that actually taste good is a big part of bariatric life — and I’ve always believed in keeping things real.

Sleeve Gastrectomy vs SIPS: Our Experiences

In our conversation, Penny and I talk openly about:

  • What led us to choose different surgeries
  • How Sleeve Gastrectomy and SIPS differ
  • Early recovery experiences
  • What life looked like shortly after surgery

This wasn’t about saying one surgery is better than the other — it was about sharing real experiences so others could feel informed while making their own decisions.

Why I’m Sharing This Video Now

Many people following Bariatric Living 101 today are still in the research phase of their bariatric journey. Hearing firsthand experiences from patients who chose different paths can be incredibly valuable — and this video captures that honesty from the very beginning of my journey.

If you’re considering bariatric surgery, newly post-op, or just looking for community, I hope this video reminds you that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach — only the choice that’s right for you.

👉 Watch the full video on YouTube and don’t forget to subscribe for more bariatric lifestyle content, recipes, and rediscovered moments from my journey.