Bariatric Operation Support

Knowing how to support someone before and after weight-loss surgery gives them the best chance at achieving a healthier, happier life.

A bariatric operation, also known as weight-loss surgery, can bring significant physical and emotional impacts. That’s because surgery alone doesn’t guarantee success. Instead, it’s meant to kick start a patient’s weight-loss journey while building long-term lifestyle changes.

Your support before and after surgery gives the person you care about the best chance at achieving their goals by equipping them with tools to navigate many different doctor appointments, tests and screenings, nutrition education, major lifestyle changes and the emotional challenges they bring.

“Because of the complexity of the weight-loss journey, patients benefit from a strong support system,” says Vladan Obradovic, MD, a general surgeon specializing in bariatric surgery at Geisinger. “When someone undergoes a bariatric operation, they need the love, encouragement and guidance of their loved ones and healthcare team to successfully navigate this difficult journey ahead.”

And, hey, your health and well-being may just benefit, too!

Supporting a loved one prior to a bariatric operation

Supporting your loved one before a bariatric operation requires knowledge, encouragement and a compassionate attitude.

Understand what weight loss surgery means

One of the most important things you can do is educate yourself about weight-loss surgery. Take time to research and learn about the different types of bariatric procedures, risks and benefits, and expected outcomes. This knowledge will help you better understand the changes your loved one will go through, so you can provide informed support.

“Bariatric procedures like gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy reduce stomach capacity and alter nutrient absorption, so patients are required to adopt new eating habits or it could cause gastrointestinal distress,” says Dr. Obradovic. “Your loved one may need to eat slower and consume very small portions spread over multiple meals throughout the day.”

Build a pre-surgery support system

Weight-loss surgery isn’t a quick fix. It requires preparation and a commitment to permanent nutritional and lifestyle changes. That’s why your loved one will have a comprehensive evaluation by a team of healthcare providers to make sure they’re ready and able to make all the necessary changes.

For example, your loved one will have to complete a medical and mental health evaluation, meet with a physical therapist to build an exercise plan and work with a nutritionist on a diet plan.

Pre-surgery prep can be difficult, especially if your loved one developed unhealthy habits over time. You can help ease this transition by maintaining a supportive attitude. You also can help your loved one break up goals into smaller chunks. And offer to accompany them to pre-operative appointments, so you can ask questions and gain insights while offering emotional support.

“The person you care about is going through a major life change,” says Dr. Obradovic. “Emotional support is so important. Be an active listener without judgement and provide reassurance that they’re not alone and you’ll be there every step of the way.”

Supporting a loved one after a bariatric operation

After a bariatric operation, the best support you can offer is leading by example.

“Show them that you are committed to making positive changes and encourage them to do the same,” says Dr. Obradovic. “Your support will reinforce your loved one’s motivation and make them feel less alone on this journey.”

Help with dietary guidelines and meal planning

Understand your loved one’s dietary restrictions, so you can work together to develop nutritious and delicious meal options. Help the person develop healthy habits, such as making weekly grocery lists and sticking to them, swapping soda for water and adding veggies to every meal. Planning ahead can ease stress — and arguments over meal choices.

“Be careful you don’t become the ‘food police’ and constantly criticize,” says Dr. Obradovic. “Instead, ask the person you care about how you can better support their healthy eating.”

Eliminate temptation

Support your loved one’s new lifestyle by removing unhealthy foods from the house. Stock up on fresh fruits, vegetables and lean proteins. Keep healthy snacks or grab-and-go foods on hand, such as individual hummus packs and cut veggies, yogurt, nuts and berries.

“Weight loss surgery can have serious complications if patients go back to their previous eating habits or veer off their rehabilitation plan,” Dr. Obradovic says. “Family members often have to make big changes at home to support a loved one.”

Encourage regular exercise

Motivate your loved one to build physical activity into their daily routine by setting goals together. Join your loved one on walks, hikes or bike rides, go for a swim, play golf or tennis, or try a new exercise class at the gym together. Working toward a shared goal can make the journey more enjoyable for your loved one, plus you can hold each other accountable.

Avoid focusing on weight

Your loved one may be sensitive about their weight and body changes. So instead of constantly discussing weight, concentrate on the person’s overall health and well-being. Congratulate them on positive behaviors and accomplishments, rather than appearance. You might say, “I’m proud of the effort you put into today’s workout,” or, “You’re doing a great job incorporating vegetables into your diet.”

Encourage follow-up appointments

Encourage your loved one to attend follow-up appointments to address concerns and readjust goals, if necessary. Bariatric support groups also are helpful for your loved one to feel connected to others going through a similar situation. These are vital programs for patients to stay motivated, be accountable and stick to goals, while providing a safe space to share challenges and accomplishments.

“Providing support after weight-loss surgery is an ongoing process,” says Dr. Obradovic. “Keep an open line of communication and be patient, honest and understanding.”

He continues, “Weight-loss surgery is a life-changing event, and many patients over time start to discover interests in their life that they could not have imagined before. I often hear my patients say their weight-loss surgery was the ‘best thing I could have ever done for myself,’ and that is my biggest reward for doing this job.”