By Seun Sowemimo, MD, FACS, FASMBS
For many surgical weight loss patients, year two after gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, or bariatric revision surgery is critical in their weight loss journey. By this time, dramatic weight loss has often slowed or plateaued, and patients are entering the long-term maintenance stage. While it’s a time to celebrate hitting major milestones—such as reaching or nearing their goal weight—this phase can also present new challenges.
The initial excitement from family and friends often fades, and old habits can begin to resurface for some. Nighttime snacking, grazing, emotional eating, or reintroducing unhealthy foods can lead to weight regains. But don’t worry! At Prime Surgicare, we’ve helped thousands of patients successfully navigate this phase of the journey. Here are expert tips to keep you on track.
1. Reconnect with Your Bariatric Support System
Attend Bariatric Support Groups: The first step to staying on track is to reconnect with your support system. We offer twice-monthly free Zoom and in-person support group meetings. These meetings are an opportunity to gain expert advice, share your struggles, and get encouragement from fellow patients who understand exactly what you’re going through. These connections can reignite your motivation and remind you that you’re not alone.
Join Online Bariatric Communities: For more flexible support, consider joining online communities like BariatricPal.com or ObesityHelp.com. These forums provide ongoing support, anonymous advice, and an outlet for sharing challenges and successes. Staying engaged is key during the maintenance phase.
2. Be Aware of the Sugar Trap
One of the biggest threats to long-term weight loss success is the reintroduction of sugar, especially in processed foods. Refined sugar is a major contributor to weight regain for many bariatric patients, as it can trigger cravings for other high-calorie, nutrient-poor foods. During year two, slipping back into the comfort foods you once turned to for emotional reasons is easy.
My team and I encourage patients to focus on whole foods with minimal sugar. This includes fresh vegetables, whole grains, legumes and healthy fats. If you find yourself reaching for sugary snacks, pause and ask whether it’s hunger or habit driving your choice. You can stay one step ahead of the sugar demon by making conscious food choices and reading labels carefully.
3. Return to Bariatric Basics: Baby Steps Count
Mindfulness & Meditation: If you find yourself slipping, returning to the basics of bariatric post-op care is important. Start by engaging in a mindfulness activity, such as meditation or deep breathing. These practices can help you refocus your attention on your goals and reset your mindset toward health.
Portion Control & Hydration: Another crucial habit to reinforce during this phase is portion control. Measure your meals and practice mindful eating to avoid overeating. Also, be sure you’re hitting your hydration goals each day—dehydration can sometimes be mistaken for hunger.
4. Vary Your Exercise Routine
Physical activity is a critical component of successful weight maintenance. However, doing the same daily routine can lead to boredom and plateauing results. Year two is the perfect time to switch up your workout plan. Try new activities like hiking, swimming, strength training, or group fitness classes. The key is to stay active, challenged, and engaged.
5. Stay Connected with Your Prime Surgicare Bariatric Team
We understand that long-term weight loss is a journey, and staying motivated can be difficult as the months go by. If you’re struggling, don’t hesitate to contact our team. We support you every step of the way, whether answering questions, offering a check-in visit, or helping you address any specific concerns.
Reach out today to schedule a follow-up appointment if you’re stuck or want to recalibrate your goals. We also offer nutrition counseling and personalized fitness guidance to help you get back on track.
Final Thoughts: You’ve Come So Far—Don’t Stop Now!
Over the past two years, you’ve accomplished so much! Now is the time to maintain those hard-earned results. By leaning on your support system, being mindful of your eating habits, and staying active, you can continue to thrive. Remember—this journey is not about perfection; it’s about progress. Even small steps can lead to significant long-term success.
If you need help, your Prime team is just a phone call away. Let’s keep moving forward—together!
About Dr. Seun Sowemimo, MD, FACS, FASMBS
Dr. Seun Sowemimo is a leading bariatric and general surgeon in New Jersey and the medical director of Prime Surgicare, based in Freehold. A board-certified surgeon with fellowship training from Columbia and Yale, Dr. Seun specializes in advanced laparoscopic bariatric procedures, including gastric sleeve, gastric bypass, and revisional surgeries. With over a decade of experience helping patients achieve lasting weight loss success, Dr. Seun and the Prime Surgicare team are committed to providing personalized care throughout your weight loss journey. Dr. Seun is an in-network provider with Blue Cross Blue Shield of NJ and on staff at Hackensack Meridian Health and Atlantic Health (CentraState Healthcare System.)
To learn more and schedule a consultation with Dr. Sowemimo, call (732)-761-1740 to schedule an appointment.
