Bariatric surgery will change your life in a positive way. However, getting surgery is still a big decision and a long journey that requires preparation. Other than making sure that your body is healthy enough for the surgery, it is also vital for you to be mentally ready for a successful surgery. Being mentally prepared before surgery is crucial to help you get on your way to a healthy weight.
Doing your research is the key to getting a good start on your bariatric journey. Many surgeons recommend their own patients start their journey with a PatientPartner™ Mentor because they have seen how much more confident those patients become going into surgery and how successful they are after.
Check out three tips to help you start preparing mentally for the weight loss journey:
1. Have realistic expectations
It is important that the you have realistic post-surgery expectations. Something that you will keep hearing is that bariatric surgery is a not a miracle procedure, you won’t wake up thin the next morning. Keep in mind that the results are not immediate. The surgery is a tool in your weight loss journey. In addition, don’t get discouraged if you don’t see the same results as someone else. Difference in lifestyle and diet habits play a pivotal role in the difference of results and weight loss success. The type of surgery you are undergoing also plays a role in how much weight loss can be expected. Your weight loss journey requires time and effort. It may take you longe than others to reach your goal weight. Keep your goal in mind and stay on track with your plan.
2. Support is everything
Not only is physical and mental preparation a part of setting yourself up or success, putting together your support team is just as important. Your friends and family will play a vital role in supporting you through your weight loss journey as well as your surgeon and his team. Your surgical team is also made up of many members and not just the surgeon. There will be doctors, nurses, support staff and more helping you make surgery a success. Check out Who Makes Up Your Bariatric Surgery Team to find out more about each member of your support circle and the role they play.
Another vital member of your support circle will be a PatientPartner™ Mentor. A PatientPartner™ Mentor is someone who has had the surgery and has gone through the same challenges you will face. In addition to giving you practical tips they can support you emotionally and guide you through the same ups and downs they went through.
3. Recognizing The Role of Mental Health
Although you may have a new body after surgery, the same mental pitfalls or issues will still remain after surgery. If these are not addressed prior to surgery it may result in regaining all the weight that was loss. Good mental health has also been linked to improved overall well being. Many insurances will now cover mental health visits for both in-person and telehealth appointments, making access to a good mental health professional much easier. Being open and honest with your surgeon and his mental health team will help them identify which areas need more support and start effective treatment early in the weight loss journey.
Remember, bariatric surgery is a tool on your journey to a healthier you! Like any journey, it will have its challenges and ups and downs. Taking it one step at a time and thoughtful preparation will help you find success on your journey.
PatientPartner™ is proud of meaningful connections the program creates. Get insider tips on how to start or maintain your healthy habits by connecting with PatientPartner™ Mentor for free.
We connect those who are about to have a bariatric surgery with patients who have previously had that surgery so you get to know the surgical journey from the patient's perspective.
Our PatientPartner™ Mentors are there to guide you through your surgical journey each and every step of the way.
