When considering bariatric surgery, the most common types performed today—gastric sleeve, gastric bypass, duodenal switch, and SADI-S—each offer varying levels of excess weight loss. While research indicates that more malabsorptive procedures like the duodenal switch and SADI-S can result in greater weight loss, the real key to success with bariatric surgery is developing and maintaining long-term healthy habits. Bariatric surgery is not a magic solution; it’s a powerful tool that works best when paired with consistent lifestyle changes. Let’s explore how to ensure your bariatric surgery journey is successful in the long run.

Setting Realistic Goals After Bariatric Surgery

One of the most important steps after bariatric surgery is setting realistic and achievable goals. A common mistake is setting goals that are too ambitious, leading to frustration and burnout. Instead, start with smaller, more manageable goals that you can realistically stick to over time.

For instance, consider these two exercise goals:

• Goal A: “I’m going to exercise 5 days a week at the gym for 45 minutes and hire a Personal Trainer.”
• Goal B: “I’m going to exercise 2 days a week in my basement for 15 minutes with the weights I have and free YouTube workouts.”

While Goal A sounds impressive, but it may not be sustainable, especially if you’re not already an active exerciser. Goal B, on the other hand, is more realistic and easier to integrate into your routine. Starting with a simple, achievable goal helps build consistency, which is crucial for long-term success. Once you’ve established this habit, you can gradually increase the intensity and frequency of your workouts.

Overcoming the All-Or-Nothing Mindset

Success after bariatric surgery is often hindered by an all-or-nothing mindset. This black-and-white thinking—where you’re either perfect or a failure—can be destructive and counterproductive to your long-term health goals. It’s essential to recognize that progress is not linear and that perfection is not required for success.

Instead of focusing on perfection, aim to make consistent, small improvements. Embrace the idea that “progress is progress, no matter how small.” By shifting your mindset to prioritize consistency over perfection, you’ll be better equipped to handle setbacks and stay on track.

Remember, life after bariatric surgery is a lifelong journey. It’s important to focus on the decisions that make you feel healthier and more in control. Even when life gets challenging, avoid letting an all-or-nothing mentality derail your progress. Recognize that one bad day, week, or even month doesn’t define your journey. What matters most is your ability to bounce back and continue making healthy choices.

It’s Never Too Late to Restart

Experiencing weight regain after bariatric surgery can be disheartening, but it doesn’t mean you’ve failed. The only true failure is giving up on yourself. If you find yourself struggling, remember that it’s never too late to restart. Rather than focusing on the setback, shift your attention to what you can do moving forward.

Consider setting a new, achievable health goal—something small that you can commit to every week. As you build confidence in your ability to meet this goal consistently, gradually increase the duration, frequency, and intensity of your efforts. Stay off the scale if it discourages you, and instead, focus on how these changes make you feel. The more you prioritize feeling good about your progress, the easier it will be to maintain these habits.

Conclusion: Consistency is Key to Success

In summary, the most successful bariatric surgery is the one that is complemented by consistent, healthy behavior changes. Surgery is a valuable tool, but it’s only one piece of the puzzle. By setting realistic goals, avoiding an all-or-nothing mindset, and understanding that it’s never too late to restart, you’ll be well on your way to achieving long-term success after bariatric surgery. Remember, time will pass anyway, so stay committed, and you’ll regain control over your health and well-being.

Need Support With Weight Regain?

Weight regain after surgery is common and occurs in ~30% of patients…but it doesn’t have to be the “end all” of your weight loss surgery journey!

Our FREE Weight Regain Resource will help you:

• Learn the reasons why you may experience weight regain after surgery
• Identify unhealthy habits that can lead to weight regain
• Find additional support and accountability with getting back-on-track with your weight loss