Bariatric Surgery in Las Vegas, Nevada – Patient Support Groups

Many successful bariatric surgery patients say that their support network helped them immensely in maintaining their new healthy lifestyle changes. From family and friends to bariatric program support groups, there is a wealth of support available for people interested in bariatric surgery.

The first step in getting support is talking to your family and friends about weight loss surgery and your interest in it. You might find that they are completely supportive. While this is always ideal, you might find that some family members and friends are against your decision. Often this is because your loved ones are concerned about you or have preconceived notions about weight loss surgery. Explaining the advantages, benefits, and risks of weight loss surgery may open their minds to its importance.

If you find that they are unsupportive, it doesn't mean you are alone. Many weight loss surgery Las Vegas patients have had bariatric surgery and have been very successful with the support they received from their bariatric program team. Blossom Bariatrics has support groups and all patients, both pre and post surgery, are encouraged to attend.

Support groups are an excellent resource. You'll find people who share your goals of health and wellness. A support group is a forum for celebrating successes, such as the improvement or resolution of co-morbidities. The support group is devoted to people who have common experiences, who can share their feelings in a safe environment, and develop relationships that can contribute to improved physical and emotional health. Support groups are a wonderful place to meet people and get perspective on bariatric surgery. You'll hear about successes, frustrations, plateaus, and special moments, and have a chance to share your own experiences. Successful patients attend support groups regularly.

If you are thinking about weight loss surgery, such as Lap Band or Stomaphyx, and you want to learn more about the patient's perspective or help reluctant family and friends understand, attending a support group meeting can be invaluable.

Getting family and friends to support my decision.
It's important to realize that for many people, not just patients, any surgery can be frightening. For bariatric surgery patients, family and friends may not be supportive in the beginning because, as with all surgical procedures, they are concerned about possible risks and complications.

If you find that your family and friends are not supportive, providing information and education may calm many of their fears. In addition to support groups, Blossom Bariatrics provides information sessions and encourages the attendance of prospective patients, their family, and their friends. Seeing and hearing the successes of other can help people understand the importance of bariatric surgery.

What if my family and friends don't support me?
Unfortunately, some bariatric patients find that their family and friends do not support their decision. It can be very disappointing, but it doesn't have to alter your decision to have bariatric surgery.

The program at Blossom Bariatrics includes two additional components that can help: program coordinator and supportive groups. The program coordinator can provide tips and techniques for dealing with unsupportive people and will listen to your frustrations without judgment.

Support Following Surgery

Do I meet with a nutritionist after surgery?
Personal nutrition counseling after surgery is available as needed or as required by your physician.

What is the long-term follow-up schedule?
Although the short-term effects of bariatric surgery are well-understood, there are still questions about the long term effects on nutrition and body systems. Over time, you will need regular checks for anemia (low red blood cell count), vitamin B12, folate and iron levels. In addition, some patients might require Lap Band adjustment or revision bariatric surgery.

Useful Links
This internet site may provide links or references to other sites. Blossom Bariatrics has no responsibility for the content of other such sites and shall not be liable for any damages or injury arising from that content. Any links to other sites are provided merely as a convenience to the users of this internet site.

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American Society of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS)
The Society was founded in 1983. Foremost American surgeons have formed this society's leadership and have established an excellent organization with educational and support programs for surgeons and allied health professionals.
www.asmbsfoundation.org

Obesity Help
Is an online support group which strives to be the top weight loss site on the Web by providing you with helpful and complete information about weight loss surgery and support.
www.obesityhelp.com

Lap Band
www.lapband.com

Ethicon Endo-Surgery
www.bariatricedge.com

Obesity Action Coalition
The mission of the OAC is to elevate and empower those affected by obesity through education, advocacy, and support. The OAC strives to educate obese individuals, family members and the public on obesity.
www.ovesityaction.org

American Obesity Association
The Association will champion the cause by promoting education, research, and community action that can improve the quality of life and self-image of sufferers.
www.obesity.org

Weight Loss Surgery Info
If you're still unsure about bariatric surgery and want to take a step back to learn more about the basics, please visit our companion website. While you're there, sign up for the newsletter, WLS NewsSource.
www.weightlosssurgeryinfo.com