The Importance of Gastric Sleeve and Support Groups or Counseling
Gastric sleeve surgery can have many positive effects on a person's life. Not only will patients achieve a more ideal body mass and will experience much better health as a result of the weight loss, they will also notice a dramatic improvement in their appearance with time. The team at our bariatric surgery center has helped countless patients improve their health and realize their dreams.
Of course, bariatric surgery of any kind is a major lifestyle change that can be trying on a person. We'd like to take a moment right now to go over some of the challenges of post-surgical life and why support groups and counseling may be crucial for recovery.
Life After Gastric Sleeve Surgery Can Be Challenging
After undergoing a gastric sleeve surgery, patients will notice dramatic weight loss and reduced hunger. While this sounds like a positive overall, it is part of a major change in lifestyle. A person's eating habits will change, as will his or her relationship to food. The latter can be quite troubling for patients who may have found psychological or emotional comfort in certain kinds of foods or in certain eating habits.
In addition, the rapid weight loss will result in loose skin and sagging skin in different parts of the body. This change in body contour can leave you feeling self-conscious, and while the loose skin can be removed and tightened through cosmetic surgery, the impact of these changes can be pronounced for some people.
Depression After Weight Loss Surgery
A number of pieces have been written about depression after bariatric surgery given the above changes in lifestyle. A WebMD feature by Denise Mann covered some of the issues that we noted above.
If patients had unrealistic expectations about what bariatric surgery could achieve, they may feel depressed following surgery. Anxiety can also occur, especially give the amount of change that the patient experiences. Thankfully there is lots of support out there.
Counseling Can Help with the Major Changes In Life
If you should feel any anxiety or depression following bariatric surgery, be sure to discuss these matters with our team and your general physician. You may be recommended to a counselor or therapist who can help you work through these issues, which will be important in the short term and the long run.
Weight Loss Surgery Support Groups Provide Strength and Community
There are plenty of others who are adjusting to life after bariatric surgery. Joining a weight loss surgery support group in your area can be very helpful in that you can share experiences and receive moral support.
There are plenty of online forums, blogs, and groups to look into as well that can prove helpful. This is another opportunity to reach out and share while also helping others through their experiences after surgery.
Discuss Your Issues with Your Loved Ones
In addition to counseling and support groups, be sure to be open with your loved ones since the support they can provide will be more immediate. Spouses/significant others, parents, siblings, and close friends will be crucial as you get used to your new lifestyle and your new you.
Learn More About Gastric Sleeve Surgery
For more information about gastric sleeve surgery and how it can be of great benefit to you and your needs, be sure to contact our Tijuana weight loss surgery center today. The team looks forward to meeting you in person and helping you achieve a more ideal body mass. The team here will also assist you with the lifestyle changes that gastric sleeve surgery entails.
