If you are considering a bariatric procedure or you already had weight loss surgery, you may be wondering what your life will entail in the future. Weight loss surgery can instigate phenomenal changes to your health and appearance, but it does come with other changes as well. If you have been told that bariatric surgery is the “easy way out” of obesity, do not believe it. Your weight loss journey will have challenges, but they will be worth the reward of a new, healthier you. Here are some of the changes you may experience after bariatric surgery.
New Way of Eating
Bariatric procedures are based on restricting your food intake. This is a tool that can help you lose a significant amount of weight quickly, but it does not mean you can eat whatever you want. The bariatric diet after weight loss surgeries like Lap Band or sleeve gastrectomy are low calorie with a focus on protein. Getting enough protein is vital to preserve muscle mass and your metabolism. It is important to cut out high-calorie, low-nutrition foods to avoid weight gain and nutritional deficiencies.
Staying Active
Exercise is key to your long-term success after weight loss surgery. Fitness activities help build muscle and tone your body, which can help reshape your new small frame. Muscle also helps maintain a higher metabolism to make it easier to lose weight and maintain your weight loss.
Body Shape and Skin Changes
Depending on how much weight you lose and other factors such as your age, you may have changes in your skin and body shape. Skin can retract and shrink as you lose weight, but for those who are obese, it may not shrink completely. It is common to have loose skin after weight loss, especially in certain areas. Arms, breasts, abdomen and thighs are prone to sagging skin once the weight is gone.
For some bariatric patients, body contouring procedures are the final step of achieving their weight loss goals. Removing excess skin and tightening certain areas on your body can be a well-deserved gift to yourself once you reach your weight loss goal.
At The Weight Loss Surgery Center of Los Angeles, we are here for you every step of the way when you choose us for your weight loss journey. Our team will help you prepare for your surgery and life changes after surgery. We even offer body contouring services to help you achieve your best shape once you reach your goal – call us today to begin working toward a healthier, happier you!
Posted on behalf of Dr. David G. Davtyan MD, FACS, FICS
