For a multitude of reasons, the weight loss surgery journey — mentally and physically — is easier for some than others.
The first month or so can be understandably challenging.
I have treated hundreds of weight loss surgery patients here at Prime Surgicare and can assure you of one fact: if you follow the weight loss surgery diet and exercise plan we give you, you’ll lose weight.
But it’s probably not going to be smooth sailing from day one; like real life, there are going to be some obstacles thrown in your path.
I’d like to help you overcome some post-op issues that may come up.
“I’m Not Losing Enough Weight!”
That’s a common concern and one that is certainly justified! Often patients think they will never be able to overcome obesity and metabolic disease since WLS was a last-ditch effort after years of dieting didn’t work.
Keep your nutrition diary updated. Keep moving. Drink all that water every day. If you didn’t see the scale move this week, you’ll be happier next week. If not, let us study your case in detail to determine what is causing this temporary setback. You and our Prime Surgicare staff and support group are on the same team and we’re not going to lose this game!
Doubting Your Decision
I view the first few weeks or even months after weight loss surgery as a perfect storm for generating self-doubts about your choice to have the gastric sleeve, gastric bypass or the lap band.
You now realize that subscribing to a lifetime commitment of changing your eating habits and lifestyle is a pretty big deal. Additionally, you have not eaten solid foods for weeks, which can also be unnerving to some people.
These feelings are completely normal — and temporary. You’ve undergone a big life change that’s going to take some time to get used to.
Just make a little note to carry with you that says:
- You are fighting back against obesity-related diseases.
- You are lengthening your lifespan.
- You are going to enjoy a significantly improved quality of life.
- You will look better and feel great every day.
Comparing Your Weight Loss to Others
Everyone fighting obesity is completely unique. While Bob may lose 28 pounds in the first month, Linda may lose only 15. Months down the line, the weight loss figures even out, more often than not.
Think about it. A general round number for great first-year weight loss after bariatric surgery is 100 pounds. That’s an average of 2 pounds a week, or 8 pounds a month.
If you lost 20 pounds in your first month, you’re doing fantastic! To hit 100 pounds in your first year, you won’t even lose a pound every three days.
Don’t worry if the scale doesn’t go down every single day. If you’re eating right, you’ll lose weight. In fact, only weigh yourself about once a week.
Recover From Your Operation First, Then Focus on Weight Reduction
You’ve prepared for weight loss surgery for a long time, and you’re eager to start losing weight. But first, it’s far more important to heal properly. That’ll help you lose weight faster later and avoid complications which could potentially set you back.
Take Weight Loss Surgery One Day at a Time
No matter how frustrated you may feel at times, stay positive and focus on following your bariatric team’s instructions to the letter.
- Continue to eat a liquid diet and then pureed foods.
- Use this recovery time to plan a day-to-day system to help achieve your long-term success.
- Learn to measure your food.
- Schedule specific days/times for food prep, sleep and exercise.
Should you have any pain or discomfort of any kind, call the office sooner rather than later. Yes, it’s often gas, but it’s better to be safe than sorry.
We want to hear how you’re doing, I assure you. Weight loss surgery is a lifetime adventure. Your world is changing for the better. When you are temporarily frustrated or disappointed, move forward and look ahead because your future is going to be very bright (and healthy!) indeed.
Are you or a loved one interested in learning if a bariatric weight loss solution might be right for you? Meet Dr. Sowemimo (“Dr. Seun”) in person at his next New Patient Info Seminar at CentraState Medical Center in Freehold or call 732.982.2002 to schedule a private consultation.
About Dr. Seun Sowemimo, MD, FACS
Dr. Seun is a top NJ bariatric surgeon and the medical director at Prime Surgicare, with offices in Freehold serving Monmouth and Ocean counties. He is board-certified, Columbia and Yale University fellowship-trained in advanced laparoscopic, bariatric and general surgery.
To learn more, visit his YouTube channel or call Prime Surgicare at (732)-982-2002.