Weight Loss Barbie: Kayla Lavende’s 200-Pound Transformation (2026 Update)

Written by Bariatric Journal Editor on October 8, 2026 — Medically Reviewed by Bariatric Journal Editor

Kayla Lavende, better known as Weight Loss Barbie or WLS Barbie, is an Australian-born social media personality who gained attention after losing more than 200 pounds following gastric sleeve surgery in Mexico.

Originally from Sydney and now living in Las Vegas, Kayla shares her weight loss transformation, fitness journey, Barbie-inspired fashion, and experiences with bariatric surgery.

Who Is Weight Loss Barbie?

Kayla developed her love for Barbie dolls during childhood. Growing up with obesity, she struggled to find fashionable clothing that fit her. Barbie inspired her to experiment with colorful outfits and eventually pursue costume design.

At her highest reported weight, Kayla weighed approximately 342 pounds (155 kg). After years of unsuccessful dieting, she decided to pursue weight loss surgery.

Her turning point came after an uncomfortable airline experience that required additional seating accommodations.

How Did Weight Loss Barbie Lose Over 200 Pounds?

In 2018, Kayla underwent gastric sleeve surgery in Mexico, a procedure that removes a substantial portion of the stomach to help patients eat smaller portions.

Over approximately two years, she reported losing 92 kilograms (about 203 pounds).

Her transformation involved more than surgery. Kayla also described making significant lifestyle changes, including:

Eating smaller, protein-focused meals
Following a more structured eating schedule
Starting with walking and progressing to jogging
Incorporating strength training
Developing consistent long-term habits

In interviews with 7NEWS Australia, Kayla emphasized that bariatric surgery was a tool rather than an effortless solution.

What Is Weight Loss Barbie Doing in 2026?

Kayla continues to share her experience with bariatric surgery and medical tourism.

In March 2025, she published a first-person article about medical tourism, discussing her decision to undergo surgery in Tijuana, Mexico, and the importance of researching surgical providers.

As of 2026, Kayla is also listed as a social media and podcast host for Elias Ortiz & Company, a bariatric surgery facilitator in Mexico. She hosts Bariatrics and Beyond, a podcast featuring patient experiences and conversations about life after weight loss surgery.

Outside the bariatric industry, she is also listed as a co-founder of Vegas4Her, a Las Vegas community initiative.

Kayla’s affiliation with a bariatric surgery company is worth considering when evaluating promotional content and provider recommendations.

Did Weight Loss Barbie Have Plastic Surgery?

Yes. Following her substantial weight loss, Kayla publicly discussed undergoing plastic surgery to remove excess skin.

Loose skin is common after significant weight loss, particularly when patients lose 100 pounds or more. The amount varies depending on factors such as age, genetics, skin elasticity, and total weight lost.

Excess skin removal is separate from bariatric surgery and is not medically necessary for every patient.

Weight Loss Barbie Before and After Photos

Kayla’s before-and-after transformation has appeared in international media and across social platforms.

Readers can follow her journey through:

Her photos demonstrate her personal transformation following bariatric surgery, lifestyle changes, and subsequent skin-removal procedures. Individual outcomes vary.

What Can Patients Learn From Her Transformation?

Kayla’s experience illustrates how bariatric surgery can support substantial weight loss when combined with ongoing lifestyle changes.

Patients considering surgery should understand that long-term success also involves balanced nutrition, appropriate physical activity, lifelong vitamin and mineral supplementation, and regular medical follow-up, as recommended by the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery.