Day 5
“I wish I knew this before having bariatric surgery…”
I asked our Banana Bariatrics members about some of the major things they wished they knew or wished their bariatric team had told them prior to surgery. Here were their responses:
Back On Track Support
We couldn’t agree more! Life after surgery is more than the surgery itself. It’s more than just the amount, kind, and quantity of foods you can or cannot eat as well. Life after surgery requires lifelong support– including ongoing care from your bariatric team of clinicians and dietitians AND consistent support with others on a similar bariatric journey!
A 2013 study found support groups were such a positive influence, participants were twice as likely to adhere to regular activity (Dikareva et al., 2013). Exercise aside, patients can benefit from feeling more inspired, uplifted, understood, and re-motivated after participating in support group with other bariatric patients.
Even as a veteran/alumni patient, it can be a helpful reminder to return to the “bariatric basics” when new patients are in that fresh bariatric headspace right after surgery. We all can learn from one another and can get back on track together.
Weight Regain Is Common
Weight regain after surgery occurs in up to 30% of patients after surgery. It is common! But it also doesn’t define or label you as a “failure” after surgery. We often see a lot of our patients >9mo to 1 year start to fall off the bandwagon from their follow-up appointments. Patients may start to feel embarrassed or ashamed for gaining weight after surgery. However, the specialty of bariatrics is unique in that it is designed to support patients lifelong!
If it’s been awhile since you’ve last seen your surgical team, call them (TODAY) and just get yourself back on the books with them. While you’re on the phone, ask them to order a fresh panel of labs, and go ahead and take the initiative to get them collected. While you’re at it, order a fresh regimen of vitamins and make an effort to start taking them daily again once they arrive at your doorstep.
Long term success after bariatric surgery is achievable and maintainable with a healthy foundation of habits that you focus on doing consistently-day after day. Weight regain is common after surgery but it doesn’t have to mean “the end” for your health goals. Start with one day at a time.
If you are struggling with weight regain, consider reading our blog post: Tips For Long Term Success After Bariatric Surgery
