Many people live by the perception that if something is meant to happen it will happen, and if obstacles get in the way, then ‘this shouldn’t happen’. In many circumstances this may truly be the case – after all why do we have gut feelings? And how often is a gut feeling right?

When it comes to weight loss surgery, many people allow themselves to be talked out of something they need by emotion-driven thoughts. Indeed, both in Georgia and The United States as a whole, only a fraction of the people who would benefit from weight loss surgery actually undergo the procedure. Most people forget that if they want something, they can make it happen.

Continue reading →

Sometimes it can be a little challenging when it comes to getting started with bariatric surgery. Wishing, hoping, praying, waiting on insurance approval, phone calls to retrieve old medical records and test results can seem like a never-ending task. But have patience. You are not alone and there’s much you can do in the meantime to kick start your weight loss.

Start by attending your surgeon’s support groups. Getting some of your questions answered prior to surgery, can give you great insight and make your experience just a little smoother. Find some inspirational blogs. There are many people out there who have outstanding and motivating blogs chronicling their weight loss efforts. Or better yet, start your own blog! Online message boards are also extremely helpful and free.

If you find yourself in a stall pattern, waiting for paperwork or other hold ups, consider asking your surgeon what other options are available in the meantime. They may offer medical weight loss programs, work out groups, nutritional counseling, psychological counseling or expert advice on exercise custom tailored to you. Take advantage of everything offered, even before your surgery, and you’ll be that much further when your paperwork comes through.

And last but not least, don’t sweat it. It took careful consideration to make the decision to have weight loss surgery.  The excitement is huge and you just want to do it. The simple reality is that paperwork simply takes time. Hang-ups happen. But your surgeon’s office is working hard to get you the surgery you need and a little patience goes a long way.

Your body and mind will experience a number of changes throughout the weight loss process.  It is not only beneficial and exciting to document those changes, but it can be fun as well. Journaling will help you organize your thoughts and process the many changes that you are experiencing. Continue reading →

While checking someone’s Body Mass Index or BMI is the fastest way to test eligibility for weight loss surgery, prospective patients must undergo a series of tests to make sure they are prepared, mentally and physically, for the procedure. Continue reading →