Mark’s Journey
Procedure: Duodenal Switch
Total Weight Lost: 250 pounds
Patient of: Dr. Ayoola – Weight Loss Specialists of North Texas
“I didn’t just lose weight—I gained a life.”
Before & After Weight Loss Surgery
A Life-Changing Decision
At 575 pounds, Mark Hawkins knew something had to change. His body was in pain, and his spirit was tired. “What inspired me to take the leap toward bariatric surgery was simple: I wanted to live—really live. I didn’t want to just exist anymore.” From there, Mark set out to find the doctor that could best help him navigate his weight loss journey.
Why Mark Chose Dr. Ayoola
As Mark recalls, “I met with other doctors, but none of them saw me the way Dr. Ayoola did. He looked at me like a person first, not just a number on a chart. He spoke to the life I was missing, and reassured me that change was possible.” It was that connection that made all the difference for Mark. He knew he’d found his doctor.
Life After the Duodenal Switch Procedure
After completing his insurance requirements and some preoperative tests, Mark finally had the DS procedure In February of 2023. Since surgery, Mark says his life has drastically changed for the better, including:
✅ Look and feel like a new person
✅ No longer have knee or joint pain
✅ Have a better relationship with food
✅ Overall outlook on life is more wholesome and positive
New Mindset, New Habits
By far, the biggest transformation for Mark has been mental.
Mark proudly says, “I now respect food. I know what fuels me and what harms me, so I think before I eat and have completely shifted the way I relate to food.”
The Unexpected Benefits
When Mark started considering bariatric surgery, it wasn’t just about weight.
He wanted to find a calmer, more centered version of himself – no longer subject to the mood swings and emotional reactions that had become routine. And post-surgery, that’s exactly what he found! His mood improved. His reactions softened. As Mark eagerly explains, “I began to genuinely like the person I saw in the mirror.”
Challenges Along the Way
Despite all the benefits, both physical and mental, there were definitely some hard moments for Mark. These are the three things he struggled with the most:
- Getting to my goal weight for surgery – because he was over 600 pounds, Mark had to lose weight BEFORE he could get the procedure.
- Realizing not everyone in my circle truly supported me – unfortunately, this is fairly common for weight loss surgery patients.
- Staying consistent when results take time – weight loss takes time, so staying focused on doing all the right things will help keep you on track.
As Mark laments, “Yes, I had to let go of some relationships that revolved around unhealthy habits. But what I gained in the end was far more valuable.”
Support System
As Mark so rightly says “You don’t need a big crowd—just the right people.”
“The care I received from Dr. Ayoola’s office in Denton helped me feel supported at every step.” That’s why it’s so important to find a doctor that you feel comfortable with and confident in guiding you along this life-long journey. A strong, compassionate medical team makes all the difference.
Advice for Others Considering Bariatric Surgery
When asked what advice he has for others considering surgery, Mark is quick to answer with “Pray first. Let God lead you.”
Then he advises you to take a clear, honest look at yourself. If you’re considering surgery, make the decision—and stick to the plan. It’s not easy, but it’s definitely worth it.
How Mark Maintains His Weight Loss
Here’s what works for Mark:
- Protein first
- Small portions
- No liquids while eating
- Walking and light exercise
- Mindset: I just wanna live and do better
Mark summarizes it with these words of wisdom: “There’s no magic formula. You have to want it—and then do the work.”
Final Thoughts
Mark is living proof that transformation is possible: physically, mentally, and spiritually. “I didn’t just lose 250 pounds. I gained confidence. Energy. Freedom. I gained a LIFE.”
📝 Interested in learning more about bariatric surgery with Dr. Ayoola?
👉 https://weightlosssurgeon.com/contact/
📍 Serving DFW and surrounding areas.
