Bariatric surgery brings about many changes all at once. There are the emotions surrounding the actual surgery, the abrupt reduction in food intake, a whole new set of “rules” to follow, foods to find and try, physical changes surrounding new anatomy and a shrinking girth, and all of the social aspects that these changes affect. The first few months are a whirlwind. As the dust begins to settle and the comfort level with all of this newness grows, life is good. It is fun to watch the pounds drop off. It is amazing to drop medication after medication and see your health improve before your very eyes. You can shop at a regular store, fit into a restaurant booth and easily tie your shoes—freedom, really, to do whatever it is you want.
The tool of bariatric surgery is very effective as long as you follow the “rules,” but the “rules” can be hard to follow consistently as life happens. Unexpected job loss, money issues, relationship troubles, teenagers, injuries, illness or other stressors come up.
