Bariatric Behavioral Modification Groups

Before (and after) having weight loss surgery, patients still require hard work and life-long behavioral change in order to successfully lose and maintain weight. This is because their unhealthy habits have evolved over many years and therefore may not just disappear overnight.

Surgeons give patients a diet that they must stick to before and after surgery, which will help them with their weight loss and prevent future weight re-gain. It is recommended that patients learn new habits including:

  • Changing their eating habits: food choices, eating times, etc.

  • Eating smaller portions

  • Not drinking and eating at the same time

  • Increasing their exercise

  • Chewing slowly

  • Not eating for emotional reasons

  • Limiting certain foods: alcohol, sugar foods, high fat foods, carbohydrates, carbonation, etc.

Weight loss surgery can result in significant weight loss and an improvement in other obesity related medical conditions. We work with patients post-operatively to help them achieve success. While most patients are very happy with their surgical experience, some patients do need pre- and /or post-operative support to help them with the necessary long-term changes.

THERAPY AFTER WEIGHT LOSS SURGERY IS HELPFUL FOR THOSE:

  • having a hard time sticking to the recommendations.

  • not feeling happy and healthy or are experiencing depression or anxiety.

  • having body image concerns.

  • having family concerns at home (e.g., meal issues, food in the house, need support regarding exercise).

  • isolating yourself from friends and family rather than going to social events.

  • drinking too much alcohol instead of eating.

  • not sure if you have the skills to be on your own for this new world of eating.


COMMON TOPICS FOR BARIATRIC SURGERY PATIENTS INCLUDE:

  • Sticking to the Recommended Diet

  • Learning to Make Small Changes and Stick to Them

  • Lifestyle Activity and Exercise

  • Mood and Food (emotional eating) – Get to know the strong relationship between your feelings and eating.

  • Binge Eating

  • Restaurant Eating and How to Still Have Fun

  • Meal Planning

  • Managing Cravings

  • Mindful Eating – Slow Down

  • Triggers (Reasons for) Eating

  • Body Changes and Body Image

  • Discussing Surgery with Friends and Family – Pre-op

  • Discussing Surgery with Friends and Family – Post-op and noticing rapid weight loss

  • Goal Setting

  • Time Management to Exercise

  • Weight Maintenance for Long Term Success and more