Bariatric Surgery | Gastric Bypass Surgery | Gastric Banding | Obesity | After Surgery

People who choose to undergo weight loss surgery (WLS) think that it is the permanent cure to their obesity, an easy fix to their social relationships or God’s answer to all their problems. Little do they know that bariatric surgery is not a magic potion. It is there to help you quick start to a lighter and healthier you.

It is important to prepare one’s self with the emotional hurdles and changes you will encounter along the way. Being prepared will help you adjust with the new you after surgery. Here are some tips to assist you cope with the psychological impacts of WLS:

1. Get to know the “new you” after surgery. It may be difficult to adjust to your new body especially that you have spent years seeing yourself as obese or fat. Give yourself time, don’t rush it. Exercise more often. Join support groups as they may help you accept your new body and in the future develop a healthier body image.
   
2. Set proper expectations. Be realistic. Rocky social or marital relationships before surgery will most likely still be rocky after surgery. Do not expect that WLS can fix everything in your life. WLS has numerous benefits. Use them for self improvement.
   
3. Stay committed. Keep your weight loss in perspective. Having undergone WLS doesn’t mean you won over obesity and weight gain forever. You may regain weight along the way and this may result to depression. Maintain weight loss by staying committed to your diet and healthy lifestyle.
   
4. Keep your family and friends close. It is vital to have a strong support system. This is of ten the key to success.
   
5. Stay away from alcohol and drug addiction. In some cases, post surgery patients will regret having WLS. This is because they cannot enjoy their favorite food anymore. Addiction swapping happens when drugs or alcohol takes the place of food.