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In the final episode of the Health Lifeline special series, host Larry Kwirirayi takes us deep into one of the most profound and personal health journeys we’ve followed on the show—Sabelo’s experience with bariatric surgery.
After exploring her reasons for undergoing the procedure and taking listeners into the operating room in earlier episodes, this chapter dives into the most complex and meaningful part: life after surgery.
Following bariatric surgery, Sabelo’s relationship with food underwent a complete transformation. With her stomach physically smaller, her capacity for food diminished, and suddenly, portion sizes mattered in an entirely new way.
“A slice of toast can fill you up,” she explained. “And you can’t drink anything for 30 minutes before eating, or 30 minutes after.”
Sabelo became intentional with her meals, trading in her larger dinner plates for breakfast plates, minimizing carbohydrates, and discovering a love for vegetables. Her culinary creativity flourished, making clear vegetable soups and beef broths while steering clear of overly sweet or processed foods. Even her cravings changed: sugary foods became intolerably sweet, and she found satisfaction in xylitol-sweetened alternatives.
According to Ruvimbo Danda, a Harare-based dietician, this shift is essential: “Weight loss is based on being in a negative energy balance. Post-surgery, controlling food intake helps maintain weight loss and avoid complications.”
Dr. Munya Muriva, a surgeon in Harare, adds that while surgery plays a critical role in initiating weight loss, maintaining the results hinges on dietary quality: “Besides reducing the amount, you need to watch the quality. Nutritionists are key in helping patients avoid high-calorie pitfalls.”
Sabelo’s first weigh-in post-surgery was an emotional revelation. “I bounced in my seat,” she said joyfully. Starting at 155.5 kilograms, she lost 14 kilograms in just eight weeks – eight before surgery and six immediately after.
After three months, the total reached 20 kilograms. Clothes once tucked away for a decade began to fit again, and pictures started documenting the visible progress. At five months post-op, she reports a total loss of 26.5 kilograms – and feels better than ever.
But the journey wasn’t without emotional hurdles. “I grieved my stomach,” Sabelo admitted, describing the unexpected sorrow of losing part of herself.
She found solace through conversations with a friend who had undergone a similar surgery and with her psychologist. “It’s very normal,” her therapist reassured her. “Any major procedure can leave you emotionally fragile.”
Sabelo noticed the subtle yet powerful shifts in how others perceived her. Friends and family commented on her dimples and newly visible neck. But not everyone responded with enthusiasm – some people withdrew or ignored her transformation altogether.
Despite this, she embraced her new self. “Now I can wear my short dresses again. I think I’ve got very nice legs!”
Dr. Muriva outlined the critical follow-up care after surgery. This includes assessing how well patients are adjusting to smaller food volumes, checking haemoglobin, kidney, and liver function, and occasionally conducting endoscopies to monitor for ulcers or acid reflux.
One of Sabelo’s proudest moments was returning to the piano.
“I’m a pianist,” she said, “and when I was larger, crossing hands was difficult. But I can do it now. That’s the biggest milestone for me.”
While rare, Dr. Muriva warns that weight regain is possible, typically seven to ten years post-surgery. In such cases, a secondary procedure might be necessary to re-reduce the stomach’s size.
Sabelo’s experience is a powerful reminder that weight loss affects more than the body.
“I haven’t felt this good in 20–25 years,” she shared. “I no longer walk with a walking stick. People don’t give me that look of pity anymore.”
Her sleep improved drastically – no more waking due to sleep apnoea.
She learned to view food as fuel rather than identity and embraced her rejuvenated appearance with joy.
“The dimples are back. I can wear baggy clothes. I feel good.”
Beyond physical appearance, the health improvements from bariatric surgery are profound. Dr. Muriva emphasized the reduction of comorbidities such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and joint pain. Many patients find they no longer need walking aids or asthma pumps, and even sleep-related issues improve significantly.
Danda’’s top tip for keeping the weight off? Consistency.
“It’s not about perfection,” he explained. “It’s about repeating healthy choices daily. If you stay consistent, you build a healthier relationship with food.”
Sabelo’s final advice for those contemplating the procedure is clear: “Talk to your doctors. They have the answers and can guide you.” She also recommends engaging a psychologist, working closely with a dietician, and finding peer support—perhaps even starting a group herself.
“Your joints will hurt less, your blood pressure will come down, and you’ll feel better,” she affirmed. “But first things first – talk to your doctor.”
One of the most empowering aspects of Sabelo’s story is that her life-changing surgery took place right here in Zimbabwe. In the past, procedures like bariatric surgery often required international travel – an option not accessible to many due to the cost, logistics, and lack of follow-up care.
Now, with experienced local professionals and healthcare infrastructure, Zimbabweans can undergo bariatric surgery without leaving the country. Sabelo emphasizes how critical this local support has been to her recovery and ongoing success.
“You can get follow-up advice. And it’s easier for your team to assist should anything go amiss,” she explains. “Your doctors, your anaesthetist, your psychologist, your dietician -they’re all here. They’re just a phone call or a visit away.”
Listen to the full episode below:
Also available on Spotify and Apple podcasts
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