Bariatric Support Group Topics

Bariatric surgery includes such surgeries as Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass and the Lap Band procedure. Patients who opt to have these surgeries usually need support both before and after the operation. They need support before to ensure they are making the right choice in opting to have such life changing surgery. Patients need even more focused support afterward to keep them on track and ensure that they continue with their program safely. A support group with salient topics is an important component of bariatric treatment.

Nutrition

• Eating after having bariatric surgery is a new and challenging exercise. The diet is high in protein and requires supplementation with a whole host of vitamins including vitamin B12 and high doses of calcium. Bariatric surgery patients need support in learning how to manage this new part of their lives to maintain their new weight loss and remain healthy. Topics on healthy eating, increasing protein and using vitamin supplements would be of interest to pre- and post-op patients alike.

Exercise

• Exercise plays a vital role in the weight loss process, and many people who have struggled with their weight may not have had the opportunity to have exercise in their lives. Topics on how to begin an exercise program and how to stick with it would benefit those just looking into the weight loss surgery process and those already trying to maintain. Introducing exercise neophytes to the concepts of aerobics and weight training would help their weight-loss journey greatly.

Plastic Surgery

• The rapid weight loss caused by bariatric surgery can leave many patients with loose skin that hangs from the body. Sometimes plastic surgery is the only solution in getting rid of this unsightly and unhealthy excess weight. Many patients need support in the road to plastic surgery for tasks such as finding a doctor, dealing with the excess skin and trying to find insurance coverage for the surgery. Plastic surgery is often at the forefront in the minds of bariatric surgery patients.

Psychological Changes

• Many psychological changes come with losing a lot of weight rapidly, and many people find it hard to cope. Topics on how to deal with the new person in the mirror and the difference in how people treat the patient could prove helpful for the recovering bariatric surgery patient. Dealing with the complex psychological issues that surround food is also important in conquering the demons that got the patient to the surgery in the first place.