Honey Boo Boo is taking a drastic step on her weight loss journey.
The reality star - real name Alana Thompson - shot to fame as a child and become renowned for her adorably chubby features.
However, now 16, Thompson is looking to lead a healthier life. Her manager confirmed to Page Six this week that after she turns 17, the star will be heading to New York City to have a suture sculpt endoscopic sleeve fitted by weight loss doctor Steven Batash.
Per TMZ, the surgical treatment can cost up to $13,000. However, for many people, it can be a life-changing way to kick start their weight loss journey.
Former Toddlers & Tiaras star Thompson is said to weigh around 275 pounds. After trying to drop pounds through diets, the teenager has reportedly become concerned that her extra weight is genetic - and that surgery is the only way she can reach her goals.
Luckily, she won't be going through the procedure alone. Her boyfriend Dralin Carswell, 20, will be undergoing the same surgery alongside her, as they embark on their healthy living campaign together.
The pair first went Instagram official with their relationship in September 2021, after dating for a few months.
Meanwhile, news of Thompson's surgery comes just weeks after it was reported that her mom, 'Mama June' Shannon, had lost custody of her to her sister, Lauryn 'Pumpkin' Shannon, 22.
Per The Sun, a Georgia judge awarded Shannon sole custody of her sister, saying: "It is in the best interest of the child that the plaintiff is awarded sole custody."
Shannon has been acting as Thompson's guardian since April 2019, when their mom's addiction issues spiraled out of control. As well as being arrested on drug possession charges, she also sold the family's Georgia home at a loss for fast cash in October 2018.
As well as having the right to make day-to-day care decisions for the young star, Shannon also has sole authority to allow her to go ahead with more major choices - such as the decision to undergo weight loss surgery.
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