Life After Surgery

Commitment To Change

It is important to remember that bariatric surgery is not a cure for obesity; rather, it is one of several tools designed to help you manage it. In addition to modifications made to your gastrointestinal tract, you also must be committed to permanent changes in your eating and lifestyle habits to achieve a successful and healthy weight loss postsurgery, as well as ongoing weight maintenance. Various factors determine your ability to resume pre-surgery levels of activity: physical condition, the nature of the activity, and the type of bariatric surgery you had. Adherence to follow-ups with your surgeon, family practitioner, and dietitian, as well as participation in exercise programs and support groups, are important elements to your success. With these commitments, you’ll be enjoying a new and healthier you postsurgery.

Support Groups

Support groups offer encouragement, education, and information in a non-intimidating environment for bariatric surgery candidates both pre- and post-operatively. That’s why we encourage our patients to become active members in our support groups. Patients interact with other patients, provide personal testimonials, and lend support to other patients. Guest speakers present information about hair loss, plastic surgery, fitness, and much more. Remember: Patients are obligated to attend one support group meeting prior to surgery, as well as three annually postsurgery.

• Adjustable Laparoscopic Band Support Group: Meets the third Wednesday of every month. Check our online calendar for dates, times and location.
• Gastric Bypass Support Group: Meets the third Wednesday of every month. Check our online calendar for dates, times and location.

Physical Changes

In the months following bariatric surgery, patients may begin to have excess skin. Routine physical activity and muscle strengthening exercises can reduce the amount of excess skin following rapid weight loss. Plastic surgery procedures such as body contouring can also help reduce excess skin. Exercising will increase the percentage of excess weight loss following surgery, as well as the percentage of muscle mass retained during the period of rapid weight loss. Patients should begin walking as soon as possible following surgery to maximize their weight-loss results.

Weight Management

The Hazleton Health & Wellness Center provides a comprehensive Weight Management Program as an extension of your postsurgery lifestyle change. The program combines the benefits of exercise and good nutrition with personalized training, education and goal setting.

For more information on the activity-based weight management program, click here or call 570-501-6767. Together, you and the weight management staff will develop goals that are specific to your needs.