Drew Carey's Life-Saving Surgical Procedures
Drew Carey has been public about a few significant surgeries he has undergone, each addressing a specific medical concern. These procedures were critical to his health, though none were for weight loss.
Coronary Angioplasty (2001)
In August 2001, while filming The Drew Carey Show, the comedian experienced alarming chest pains. After being rushed to the hospital, doctors discovered one of his arteries was 95% blocked. He underwent an emergency coronary angioplasty, a procedure where a tiny balloon and stent are used to clear the blockage and restore proper blood flow to the heart. This event was a major wake-up call that prompted him to seriously re-evaluate his health and lifestyle.
LASIK Eye Surgery
At some point during his career, Carey had LASIK eye surgery to correct his vision. Despite the successful procedure, he continued to wear his signature glasses for many years as part of his celebrity persona. This was a common detail of his image that many fans found endearing, even after his need for glasses was medically eliminated.
Herniated Disk Surgery (2014)
In 2014, Carey underwent a surgery to address a herniated disk. He was candid about the experience on social media, tweeting about the process before and after the operation. A herniated disk occurs when the soft center of a spinal disc pushes through a tear in its tough outer layer, causing pain and discomfort.
Cataract Surgery (2020)
Later in his life, Carey also underwent cataract surgery in 2020 to address vision issues related to aging. This is a very common procedure in which the eye's clouded lens is removed and replaced with a clear, artificial one.
The Truth About Drew Carey's Weight Loss: No Surgery
Despite widespread rumors, Drew Carey's significant weight loss was achieved entirely through dedicated changes to his diet and exercise regimen, not through weight-loss surgery. After being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes in 2010 and with his heart history in mind, he took decisive action to transform his health.
His approach was straightforward:
- Dietary Overhaul: He adopted a very strict low-carb diet, eliminating starches like bread, pasta, and potatoes. His meals focused on lean proteins and vegetables. He also cut out all sugary drinks, opting to only drink water.
- Consistent Exercise: Carey committed to a consistent cardio routine, performing at least 45 minutes of exercise several times a week. He later took up running, which he said provided extra motivation.
- Mindset Change: Beyond the physical changes, Carey has stressed that a fundamental shift in his mindset was crucial to his success, embracing a self-loving attitude toward his health.
Clarifying Misconceptions and Celebrity Comparisons
Some online sources have incorrectly reported that Carey underwent bariatric surgery, possibly confusing his weight loss with other celebrities who have had such procedures. A side-by-side comparison helps highlight the key differences.
| Feature | Drew Carey's Weight Loss | Other Bariatric Surgery Patients (e.g., Mariah Carey) |
|---|---|---|
| Method | Diet and Exercise (Low-carb, cardio) | Surgical procedure (e.g., Gastric Sleeve, Gastric Bypass) |
| Surgical Intervention | None for weight loss; surgical history for other issues (heart, back, eyes) | Yes, procedure is the primary intervention for weight loss |
| Motivation | Wake-up call from heart scare (2001) and Type 2 diabetes diagnosis (2010) | Often for health reasons related to weight |
| Timeframe | Achieved 80 pounds of loss over approximately 7 months in 2010 | Varies significantly depending on the individual and procedure |
| Result | Reversal of Type 2 diabetes, significant weight loss | Significant weight loss, often with improvements in related health conditions |
The Remarkable Health Outcome
Carey's commitment to his new lifestyle yielded remarkable results beyond just weight loss. By losing 80 pounds, he was able to completely reverse his type 2 diabetes, no longer requiring medication to manage the condition. This outcome is a powerful testament to how significant lifestyle changes can positively impact chronic health conditions.
His success story resonates because it is an example of sustainable change achieved through consistency and self-discipline, rather than a quick fix. Carey's journey shows that even in the face of serious health challenges, proactive and dedicated efforts can lead to profound and lasting improvements. His various surgeries addressed specific medical needs, while his weight loss was a personal victory earned through sustained hard work.
Conclusion
While Drew Carey has undergone several important surgeries over his lifetime—including a coronary angioplasty, LASIK eye surgery, and procedures for a herniated disk and cataracts—he has made it clear that his impressive weight loss was not achieved through surgical means. His health transformation was driven by a powerful mindset shift, a strict low-carb diet, and a consistent cardio routine. This commitment allowed him to shed 80 pounds, reverse his type 2 diabetes, and dramatically improve his overall health and well-being. His story serves as an inspiring example of how dedicated lifestyle changes can lead to incredible and lasting results. The various medical procedures he has undergone were separate, targeted interventions for specific health issues along his journey toward a healthier life.
