Is Weight Loss Surgery Your New Year's Resolution?
Losing weight is a very common resolution this time of year, and it’s one of the more difficult goals to stick with. For many people, it's hard to stick with a long-term strategy of diet and exercise to lose weight. When a person gets to the point where they can’t seem to lose weight and they can’t exercise because they have pain in their knees or back, weight loss surgery may be an option to explore.
Weight loss surgery is not something that should be decided impulsively. If you are considering weight loss surgery, here are a few tips to help you.
Step One: Deciding to Have Surgery
Once you’ve decided weight loss surgery is the right option for you, you’ll have to determine what kind of bariatric surgery is best. With the help of a qualified bariatric specialist, you can understand the different options available and what your life will look like after weight loss surgery. In choosing to have the surgery, you’re resolving to do things differently. The surgery will help you lose weight quickly, but it’s very important to follow the dietary and physical guidelines before and after surgery. Weight loss surgery is a tool that can help you change your lifestyle and develop healthier habits for the rest of your life.
Finding the Right Bariatric Surgeon and Team
As mentioned, weight loss surgery should not be a decision you make quickly. A qualified bariatric center will have surgeons, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and dietitians as part of the team. All are there with the same purpose in mind- to help you achieve your goal of weight loss. In addition to the team on staff, outside support from therapists or counselors are available. Losing weight changes your life in many ways and asking for help or support is encouraged. Surgery of any kind not only requires a personal commitment but a financial commitment as well. Choose a bariatric surgeon and team that you feel comfortable talking to. They can help you navigate the weight loss surgery process. Finding the right bariatric surgeon and team with expertise and certifications is very important because there are many nutritional and psychological aftercare protocols that you need to follow through with.
Life after Weight Loss Surgery
Taking care of your physical and mental health after surgery is vital to your recovery,. There are specific dietary guidelines that need to be followed before and after surgery. Initially, you’ll be on a liquid diet that gradually transitions to regular foods. This will aid in keeping your portions under control and sets you up to make healthier eating habits in the future. Regular physical activity and a healthy diet combined provide the foundation for a successful and healthy weight loss journey. Support groups can be a great way to seek advice from people who have already undergone weight loss surgery and can help you navigate the process as well.
Weight loss surgery can be a life-changing tool to live a long, healthy life. By joining support groups, planning meals, and scheduling physical activity, patients can see a dramatic change in overall lifestyle and health. If you think weight loss surgery is right for you, check out our weight loss surgery program at Roger Williams Medical Center or call 401-521-6310 to learn more.