With a CMWL program, your personalized plan is modified and perfected until you get the results you desire, whether it is 100 pounds or 10 pounds. View past CMWL patients' successes and learn how they were able to keep weight off.

CMWL Success Stories

• 

  Howard, 37

  Lost 245 lbs**

  "Like most obese people, I was an expert on diets. I knew just about every diet..."

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  Howard with Dr. Kaplan

  •   * Results not typical
    Physician Biography

  • Howard's Story

    "Like most obese people, I was an expert on diets. I knew just about every diet but couldn't stick with anything."

    I knew that if I had a serious attack, I might need surgery. But what doctor would risk operating on someone as obese as I was? I was newly married and my wife was full of energy. All I wanted to do was stay home and watch TV, eat and sleep.

    At 505 pounds, I was in constant pain. My knees started making strange noises and started to give out when I stood up. I was living on anti-inflammatory medication. I couldn't do basic work around the house. There were weeks my pain was so severe, I missed work. My wife wanted to hug me but I would scream out in pain. I wanted to take my wife away on vacations, but my back pain left me confined to hotel beds.

    I was miserable because of chronic pain. I was depressed because my life revolved around eating. Life was passing me by. Finally, last January, something inside me clicked. I could no longer take the pain or depression. Over the previous 10-year period I had made several half-hearted attempts to get healthy. Like most obese people, I was an expert on diets. I knew just about every diet but couldn't stick with anything.

    Nothing people said to me had any impact or motivated me. The more depressed I got the more I ate. I made an appointment with Dr. Kaplan because I was familiar with a liquid diet from high school when it helped me lose 100 pounds. I kept the weight off all through college by maintaining a strict fitness program. I was pleasantly surprised to learn that shakes are now easier in a ready to drink form.

    Over the last nine months I have lost 285 pounds! I'll continue on the plan until I reach my goal of weighing 205 pounds.

    Dr. Kaplan saved my life. I no longer suffer with back or knee pain. I am no longer tired. I am able to engage in exercise and I have even been able to ride a roller coaster! I am no longer a prisoner trapped inside my body. I no longer worry whether I can fit into a car or whether a seat can hold me. I feel very fortunate that Dr. Kaplan's office exists. The low calorie diet gave me the results I was looking for without surgery. The liquid diet has given me an appreciation for my health. I never thought it would be possible for me to feel this good again.

• 

  Gabriela

  Lost 100 lbs**

  "I managed to lose over 100 pounds thanks to the medical weight loss technique..."

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  Gabriela with Elisabeth Cohn-Gelwasser

  •   * Results not typical
    Physician Biography

  • Gabriela's Story

    "I managed to lose over 100 pounds thanks to the medical weight loss technique and methodology I discovered through the Center for Medical Weight Loss (CMWL)."

    My name is Gabriela Rosenthal and I would like to share my extraordinary weight loss story with you. During the last three years I managed to lose over 100 pounds thanks to the medical weight loss technique and methodology I discovered through the Center for Medical Weight Loss (CMWL). I am indebted to CMWL for all of the positive advice and encouragement they provided me during my personal fitness endeavor. After utilizing the CMWL process, I feel like an entirely different person. I am the married mother of four young children with an extremely busy life style. It did not take long for me to realize that while taking care of the children I began to take myself for granted. Everything I did was for my family and I began to neglect my own needs. I can recall a friend of mine once asking, “Would you die for your kids?” Obviously, my answer was yes. However, I began to contemplate what my friend had just asked me when I realized what she should have asked was, “do you want to live for your kids?” Soon after I came to terms with my painful truth; carrying over 250 pounds was putting added pressure and stress on my back, hips and entire body. I was constantly in pain and felt tired all the time. To make matters worse, as a result of my excessive weight gain I began to develop serious medical problems. One day I stood in front of the mirror and was not happy with whom I saw staring back at me. This was the final straw and quintessential moment in time when I decided to transform my lifestyle and stop the madness I was putting myself through.

    I have always been a habitual dieter I didn’t feel there was much hope for me to lose all of the weight I gained. What I did know is that I was seriously tired of going through the yo-yo effect that millions of other people experience when they attempt to lose weight. Fortunately for me, I was able to find the help and assistance I needed to jump start my desire and ambition to develop a brand new me. This was a very important moment in my life because it was the crucial starting point for my lifestyle change. When I began my weight loss journey I draped a size 22 over my body when I got dressed. Today, I easily slip into a slender size 2. It fills me with great pride to tell you that I have been able to maintain my weight for over 2 years.

    Nowadays, I dedicate my time and effort to helping others accomplish the very same goals I set forth for myself so many years ago. I have experienced great success with my personal weight loss and have inspired numerous people close to me in my life to do the same. I believe so strongly in the CMWL program that I was inspired to open my very own CMWL operation in Pembroke Pines, Florida in collaboration with Dr. Elisabeth Cohn-Gelwasser. As a CMWL weight loss specialist I help members of my community achieve their weight loss goals and develop healthy lifestyle skills.

    Dr. Michael Kaplan has created an amazing weight loss program that works for people from all walks of life. Dr. Cohn-Gelwasser and I have trained with Dr. Kaplan. We strongly believe in his program. CMWL works wonders for individuals who are tired of carrying around their extra weight and refuse to buy new, bigger clothes to accommodate their weight gain. Dr. Cohn-Gelwasser and I have developed an amazing program to help patients lose their desired weight and keep it off, permanently. After we review a patient’s test results I sit down with them to recommend a personalized weight loss plan. I work closely with a myriad of people; from those needing to lose in excess of 300 pounds to individuals only wanting to lose a few extra pounds.

    My story and experience with medical weight loss has inspired me to take the CMWL program one step further. I incorporated my personal success into our Pembroke Pines practice. We have implemented personalized fitness into the weight loss equation by utilizing a certified trainer. This individual was a true catalyst of my weight loss. I trained with her for 3 years and our patients admire her passion for fitness; empowering them to lose their weight and stay on the program. Within the confines of my office I have heard numerous inspirational stories from our patients. I absolutely enjoy what I do with CMWL and never imagined there could be anything more rewarding than losing the weight myself. In hindsight, I can honestly say that helping others change their lifestyle and achieve their goal weight stands head and shoulders above any rewards I could ever have imagined.

    So I ask you, “What is your destiny?” I say it starts by getting involved with the Center for Medical Weight Loss.

• 

  Josephine, 29

  Lost 65 lbs**

  "When I found the Center for Medical Weight Loss, I never dreamed that they..."

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  Josephine with Dr. Giannnakopoulos

  •   * Results not typical
    Physician Biography

  • Josephine's Story

    "When I found the Center for Medical Weight Loss, I never dreamed that they would help me discover a whole new life."

    I’m fit, 65 lbs. lighter and the world is a whole new place for me. I had been heavy all my life and kept looking for the right weight-loss solution. I tried virtually every diet out there from low-carb, to counting points, to buying pre-measured food – none worked, at least not over the long haul. It was easy to lose weight, but hard to keep it off.

    Once I realized that my weight problem wasn’t simply about portion control, but that emotions were triggering my binging, I began to make progress. No diet in the world was going to help until I learned to handle my emotions successfully. I’m only 29 and was just shy of 200 lbs at the end of last year when I decided to stop by the Center for Medical Weight Loss. Physically, I was a wreck. I felt sluggish, couldn’t participate in activities that I used to enjoy, and was beginning to have difficulty breathing. I felt disgusted and embarrassed by my weight and my self-confidence was at an all-time low. Even though I was a health professional, I was anything but healthy.

    At the CMWL in Westbury, Dr. G spent time explaining that what I needed was a combination of diet along with a series of exercises that would strengthen me physically as well as emotionally. What he was offering me were ways to cope with life stressors without using food. At last someone understood and would help me develop strategies to successfully manage stress and any uncomfortable emotions. Each week, I looked forward to receiving a new packet of exercises that would help me learn new ways to deal with life’s pressures. Whenever I hit an obstacle that I wasn’t prepared to handle, Dr. G. helped me figure out ways to successfully cope without relying on food to get me through. As a result, I lost 65 pounds in just over 5 months.

    At first, my diet consisted of a protein bar and four shakes a day. The shakes were tasty and satisfying, so I had no problem sticking to the diet and started losing weight. Then, as the weeks went by, the counseling and self-help exercises made it easier to keep the weight off.

    If you want to lose weight and have failed in the past, one of the most crucial lessons I learned is that you must believe in yourself. Have the faith and deep-down confidence that you DO have the abilities to succeed in what you want out of life – weight loss included. I found that with daily affirmations and actually visualizing the way I wanted to look and feel, I was able to make it happen. I sincerely hope my story helps someone else. If you can relate to the emotions and feelings that I experienced as a heavy person, I hope you will make the choice to commit to living a healthier and more active life.

    I feel completely different now – I’m fit, healthy and full of energy and the world has become a brand new place for me. Everything has changed. I’m more outgoing, I love fashion and clothes and I can wear what I want now. For years, I hid my personality underneath my excess weight and baggy clothing. Now, my clothing shows off my personality.

    I’m having more fun, I love to exercise and I am finding things out about myself that I never knew. I even enjoy weight lifting! Now, I go out dancing and don’t stop. I used to go out with my friends and stand in a corner all night. And, there’s a dramatic difference in how people react to me. Instead of looking away or ignoring me, people smile. I’m a happier, healthier person with a new outlook. CMWL has given me a brand new beginning.

• 

  Essie

  Lost 110 lbs**

  "It made a permanent difference in my life and I'm most confident that it will..."

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  Essie with Dr. Giannnakopoulos

  •   * Results not typical
    Physician Biography

  • Essie's Story

    "It made a permanent difference in my life and I’m most confident that it will make a difference in yours too!"

    In the last five months my life has changed significantly for the better. At 110 lbs. lighter than I was, my self esteem is on the rise. I was at my all time highest weight, weighing in at 343 lbs!! After trying many diets in the past, I was desperate. I was praying and asking God to help me. One day while reading the NY Post, I saw this advertisement for The Center for Medical Weight Loss so I called and five months later, this is the new me. The considerate and courteous staff was great and the doctors were very patient as well. They never hesitated to address any questions or concerns that I had. They even worked closely with my medical doctors!

    If you are serious about changing your life too, I totally recommend The Center for Medical Weight Loss. It made a permanent difference in my life and I’m most confident that it will make a difference in yours too!

• 

  Bettyna, 32

  Lost 82 lbs**

  "Losing weight is a full-time commitment that pays off in increased energy and a healthier..."

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  Bettyna with Dr. Giannnakopoulos

  •   * Results not typical
    Physician Biography

  • Bettyna's Story

    "Losing weight is a big decision and a full-time commitment that pays off in better health, increased energy and a healthier attitude toward life. Now, I actually look forward to what the scale says each week!"

    When I first stepped through the front door of the Center for Medical Weight Loss, I was 228 lbs., 32 years old and had a body-mass-index which indicated that 49.9% of that weight was body fat. Not surprisingly, that’s considered morbidly obese. At least my health hadn’t suffered, as yet, but my energy level was taking a noticeable nosedive. Moreover, I wasn’t exactly in the best frame of mind. You might even say I was depressed. And, in my business, which is sales, energy and attitude are everything. So, I knew I needed to make a change. Part of me knew what I needed to do, but part of me also knew I needed structure and guidance in order to succeed.

    I’ve tried fad diets in the past and even joined a popular weight loss group, but it wasn’t until visiting the Center for Medical Weight Loss that I got the counseling I needed. When I sit down with Dr. G, he’s my doctor, my analyst and my dietician. He’s an M.D. with real experience that’s full of fact and not fiction. He’s not just another so-called weight loss “expert.” And, his “homework assignments” become helpful tools; they are handpicked articles that are appropriate to what I need to work on. For instance, he may provide me with a story to read on balanced nutrition, on how to deal with stressors, or on how physical activity can enhance well being and speed weight loss. Education has been a huge part of my learning to lead a healthier everyday life and Dr. G has been a most inspiring teacher.

    My life has turned around. Now, instead of food, the gym has become my outlet for stress relief. Four to six days each week, I work out my problems and anxieties with a good workout at the fitness center and I even have a gym buddy to help keep me on track. Exercise has become enjoyable because not only do I feel better, calmer and more relaxed afterwards, but at the same time it’s encouraging knowing that I’m burning fat and helping to maintain muscle mass.

    Over the past 8 months, the Center for Medical Weight Loss has helped me lose more than 82 lbs (70 lbs of fat) and has helped me to reach a new, energetic weight of 146 lbs. In addition, working with a personal trainer helps me target problem areas and build muscle, while my cardio workouts are terrific fat burners. People who see me only once a month don’t even recognize me; the changes are that significant from one month to the next. Now, when I get together with friends, we meet at the mall instead of the diner. We get plenty of exercise while window shopping and sometimes even land a few hot buys – and some flattering new clothes.

    But, the best part of the weight loss has been the energy gain – and that has reenergized my career as well. It was amazing, but as the pounds were falling off and my enthusiasm and energy level returned to normal, sales began to skyrocket. I was happier, more focused and more passionate about my job, so I started closing more deals and as sales grew, so did my income.

    Once I was on the path of a healthier lifestyle, it was time to take control of my TV viewing. Television bombards us with temptation, so why not just blast past the 30-second tempters with the push of a button? So, I set my TiVo to tape my must-watch TV shows and then simply fast forward through all the fast-food commercial's. Still, what do you do about those special celebrations that center around food? I start by using what I’ve learned. I fill up on high density, low calorie foods first. Which means starting my meal with a big salad and then, by the time the dessert cart rolls around, I’ve had my fill and can say no to temptation.

    Losing weight is a big decision and a full-time commitment that pays off in better health, increased energy and a healthier attitude toward life. Now, I actually look forward to what the scale says each week! But, I also make sure to come in every week because, when I skip a week, I tend to lose focus. Losing weight is a day-by-day process, so, for me, the support of family, friends and the good doctor has been priceless.

• 

  Ginny

  Lost 91 lbs**

  "With his help, I was on the weight loss diet program that was right for me..."

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  Ginny with Dr. Giannnakopoulos

  •   * Results not typical
    Physician Biography

  • Ginny's Story

    "With his help, I was on the weight loss diet program that was right for me and I began to see weight loss results fast."

    I came to the Center for Medical Weight Loss because I was frustrated with the drastic ups and downs of my dieting and wanted to have gastric bypass surgery.

    As soon as I entered the center I was greeted very warmly by staff member Renee. When I spoke to Dr. Giannakopoulos, he convinced me that gastric bypass surgery would not be right for me. With his help, I was on the weight loss diet program that was right for me and I began to see weight loss results fast.

    Part of my program includes “power hour” exercise sessions on Sundays which are very nice added attraction that helps tone your muscles as well as meet other motivated people.

    So far, I have lost 91 pounds and plan to lose at least another 40. With the support of the staff and the expertise of Dr. Giannakopoulos I am determined to never put myself through the ups and downs of dieting again.

    Thank you Center for Medical Weight Loss for all of the weight loss guidance, motivation and help.

• 

  Paul, 49

  Lost 120 lbs**

  "Meeting Dr. Kaplan for the first time, you realize he's a man on a mission..."

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  Paul with Dr. Kaplan

  •   * Results not typical
    Physician Biography

  • Paul's Story

    "Meeting Dr. Kaplan for the first time, you realize he's a man on a mission. His passion for his patients is very apparent."

    On February 27, 2003, my father lost his battle against diabetes. His death had a profound impact on my life. Before he died my father would explain how he had had several opportunities to keep the diabetes under control. Unfortunately, he did not follow his doctor's instructions and eat the appropriate foods. He was overweight and he had only himself to blame.

    In July of 2003, I found my own weight spiraling out of control. I suffered from morbid obesity. I could not find a scale strong enough to support my weight. One hospital suggested I go to their shipping and receiving department to use the scale they use to weigh laundry before it's sent out to be cleaned. I was mortified.

    I had to take action immediately. I found Dr. Kaplan's ad in the newspaper and made an appointment. Little did I know that phone call would change my life.

    Meeting Dr. Kaplan for the first time, you realize he's a man on a mission. His passion for his patients is very apparent. He wants to tackle the obesity epidemic one persona at a time. His examinations are very thorough. He makes his patients feel special because he focuses his expertise on each individual's unique situation. He has demonstrated to me that he will do whatever it takes to assist his patients in their weight loss endeavor.

    Dr. Kaplan's support staff is equally outstanding. They are always friendly and extremely helpful. I highly recommend Dr. Kaplan and his staff. They will make a difficult task seem effortless.

    By the way, did I mention I've lost 120 pounds in five months!!!

• 

  Irene

  Lost 50 lbs**

  "Two years ago I was at my heaviest weight of 187 lbs..."

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  Irene with Dr. Giannnakopoulos

  •   * Results not typical
    Physician Biography

  • Irene's Story

    Two years ago I was at my heaviest weight of 187 lbs. Now, after my treatment program at the Center for Medical Weight Loss, I'm weighing in at a slimmer 137 lbs.

    Thanks, Dr. Giannnakopoulos, for helping me get closer to my goal! I can’t wait to reach my final target weight! I couldn’t have done it without you!

• 

  Claudia

  Lost 28 lbs**

  "I wish I could tell everyone who is struggling with their weight to drop everything and run to Dr. Kaplan's..."

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  Claudia with Dr. Kaplan

  •   * Results not typical
    Physician Biography

  • Claudia's Story

    "I wish I could tell everyone who is struggling with their weight to drop everything and run to Dr. Kaplan's and get on this program as soon as possible."

    This has been the best thing that I have ever done for myself! And, I must say, the easiest to stick to. Taking one day at a time rather than looking too far ahead worked for me. Now I look far into the future and see that I will never go back to the bad eating habits I had. Everything changes. Not just your body, but your mind, as well. The results are amazing!

    I truly feel like my old self. I greatly appreciate Dr. Kaplan's support and terrific knowledge, but most of all, his way of caring about you. You will be motivated to continue on the program after seeing the results after just one week! I promise.

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