Ese Milan, a 25-year-old from Las Vegas, was always the bigger person in her family, a fact she accepted as a part of her identity. Growing up in a Polynesian Samoan household, where larger body sizes were the norm, she never thought much about her weight. But at 22, after years of struggling with health issues and constantly feeling physically uncomfortable, Ese received a wake-up call that changed her life forever.
In 2021, after a routine doctor’s appointment, Ese discovered she weighed 412 pounds. This shocking number marked the beginning of her health journey. With type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and the looming threat of sleep apnea, Ese was forced to confront the reality of her weight. In just two years, she would undergo a life-changing transformation, losing 150 pounds and becoming a healthier version of herself. Here’s her story, filled with unexpected surprises, challenges, and triumphs.
The Moment I Realized Change Was Necessary
“I had always been bigger, and I was used to it,” Ese recalls. But everything shifted after her doctor’s appointment. “When I stepped on the scale and saw 412 pounds, I was completely shocked. I couldn’t believe it,” she confesses.
At that moment, Ese understood that her health wasn’t just a matter of weight—it was a matter of life or death. Her doctor informed her about the serious conditions she was at risk for, and it was clear that without change, her future looked grim.
“I knew I had to do something about my weight and health,” she says. “But it wasn’t easy to come to terms with the fact that I needed help to change.”
The First Steps: Dieting, Exercise, and Finding a Routine
Following her diagnosis, Ese decided to take immediate action. She joined a gym and started working out every day after work, determined to lose weight. “At first, I stuck to cardio machines,” she shares. “I was so self-conscious. I felt out of place when I saw other people lifting weights. They looked fit, and I had no clue what I was doing.”
It wasn’t easy, and progress was slow. But persistence paid off. “I became addicted to the sweat,” she says. “I loved seeing myself leaving the gym covered in it. It made me feel accomplished, like I was doing something good for myself.”
Despite her commitment to the gym, the weight loss was frustratingly slow. At 23, she had lost just 30 pounds, but it felt like it wasn’t enough.
Facing the Reality: Why I Chose Bariatric Surgery
After months of hard work, Ese still hadn’t reached the level of weight loss she hoped for. “The food part was the hardest,” she explains. “I was surrounded by friends who enjoyed food-centered socializing, and my family continued to eat the same way. It felt like I was fighting an uphill battle alone.”
Her struggles led her to consider bariatric surgery, a decision she once thought of as “cheating.” “At first, I thought I had to do everything the hard way,” she says. “But I came to realize that bariatric surgery could help me stop the cycle of constant dieting and food obsession, and help me make long-term changes.”
In November 2023, after doing extensive research, she opted for vertical sleeve gastrectomy—a procedure that permanently reduces the size of the stomach, helping her feel full with much smaller portions. “The surgery was quick—just 10 minutes,” she recalls. “It was a little uncomfortable after, but I was up walking around right away. I didn’t care what anyone thought. I was doing this for myself.”
The Weight Loss Results: 150 Pounds Gone and More to Gain
After her surgery, Ese’s weight loss journey accelerated. In the first year following the procedure, she lost about 110 pounds, and in the year that followed, she shed another 40 pounds, totaling 150 pounds lost in two years. “It feels amazing,” she says, “to look back and see the progress I’ve made. I feel unstoppable now.”
In addition to the dramatic weight loss, Ese’s health has improved significantly. “All the health concerns I had before are gone,” she shares. “My blood pressure is normal, my sugar levels are stable, and I feel healthier than ever.”
The Unexpected Changes: More Than Just Weight Loss
While the weight loss itself was life-changing, Ese Milan was surprised by the unexpected changes she experienced along the way. “I’ve always heard about the physical changes, but I didn’t expect some of the more emotional and social shifts,” she admits.
Here are the seven unexpected changes Ese encountered after losing 150 pounds:
1. People Are Kinder Now
“Before losing weight, I felt invisible,” Ese shares. “People weren’t as friendly, and I didn’t get the same level of attention. But now, people hold doors open for me, greet me on the street, and strike up conversations. It’s wild how differently I’m treated now.”
It wasn’t easy to admit, but Ese recognized how superficial societal perceptions can be. “It’s hard not to notice the difference in how people treat you based on your weight,” she says.
2. My Feet Shrunk
One of the most surprising physical changes was that her feet shrank. “I went from a size 9 to a 7.5,” she says, laughing. “I never knew weight loss could impact your feet like that, but I had to buy new shoes. It was weird but also kind of cool.”
3. My Voice Changed
Ese also noticed a shift in her voice. “It became higher and clearer,” she shares. While there’s no extensive research on how bariatric surgery affects vocal cords, some studies suggest weight loss can impact voice pitch and clarity.
4. Clearer Skin
“For years, I struggled with acne, especially along my jawline,” she says. “But since I lost weight, my skin cleared up.” Ese attributes this to cutting out sugar and processed foods, both of which are known to contribute to acne. “A low-carb, high-protein diet definitely helped my skin look better,” she adds.
5. I Started Enjoying Foods I Used to Dislike
“I used to hate avocados,” Ese says, “but now I love them! I also eat more vegetables and fewer fruits than before.” This change is common among those who lose significant weight, as taste preferences can shift with diet and lifestyle changes.
6. I Lost Some Friendships
“After losing weight, I lost some friends too,” she admits. “I didn’t expect that. I realized they were only my friends because of my size—because it made them feel better about themselves. But when I started taking care of myself and getting healthier, they had a problem with it.”
It was painful for Ese, but it became clear that her self-worth was no longer tied to her friendships with those who weren’t supportive of her growth.
7. I’m More Confident Than Ever
“Before surgery, I used my size as a shield to protect myself. But now that I feel confident in my body, I feel more like the real me,” she says, smiling. “It’s empowering to know that I’m finally living for myself, and I love the person I’ve become.”
What’s Next for Ese Milan?
Now, two years after bariatric surgery, Ese Milan is focused on maintaining her healthy lifestyle. She works out regularly, sticks to a high-protein, low-carb diet, and has embraced a balanced approach to living. “I’m not perfect, but I’m healthier than I’ve ever been,” she says. “I feel unstoppable, and I know I can continue to get even better.”
You Might Also Want to Know
Q: How did Ese Milan lose 150 pounds? A: Ese Milan lost 150 pounds after undergoing bariatric surgery and making significant lifestyle changes, including regular exercise and a high-protein, low-carb diet.
Q: What are some of the unexpected changes Ese Milan experienced after losing weight? A: Some unexpected changes include shrinking feet, a clearer voice, and improved skin. She also noticed that people treated her differently and that she lost some friendships along the way.
Q: What is Ese Milan’s exercise routine? A: Ese works out six times a week, focusing on a combination of strength training and cardio. She also stays active by walking and prioritizing regular physical activity.
Q: How has bariatric surgery impacted Ese Milan’s health? A: Bariatric surgery helped Ese overcome health issues like high blood pressure, diabetes, and sleep apnea. It significantly improved her overall health and energy levels.