Supporting a Loved One Through Weight Loss Surgery

When a person decides to undergo surgery to facilitate weight loss, the procedure affects more than that person. As the spouse, companion, friend or close relative of a surgical weight loss patient, you have likely been told of the procedure and what to expect before and afterward. It’s natural, of course, to have concerns and offer any assistance and support to your loved one in this time. Weight loss surgery represents a drastic change in one’s body for the better – the opportunity to achieve optimal health at a manageable weight. Just as your loved one prepares for the operation, so you should be ready to do your job when it is time.

What is this job? It goes without saying that you will be around for emotional and spiritual support and to assist when necessary with minor tasks while your loved one is in the operating room, but once he/she is home and ready to continue with the second step of the weight loss journey, you’ll find there are ways you can supply the love and comfort needed to see the process to complete fruition.

Keep Spirits High: Good humor always makes for the best medicine. If your loved one should experience any feelings of doubt during this time, be there for an emotional pickup. If you are concerned about saying the wrong thing with regards to your friend’s changed appearance (and be assured you will see a difference over time), take cues from the patient to determine what is good-natured.

Attend Support Meetings: Once the patient is through with surgery, there are support groups where surgical weight loss patients meet to discuss their post-operation lives and experiences. They are typically welcome to friends and relatives as well, so go along with your loved one for a better idea to help with the post-surgery care.

Share the Healthy Lifestyle: Your loved one may meet with diet and fitness experts regularly to work toward healthy weight management. Why not adapt some of those lifestyle changes for yourself, and help with nutritious cooking and act as a walking buddy? The shared activities can help keep your friend’s progress going and his/her attitude positive.

The decision to have weight loss surgery usually doesn’t happen lightly, as one must qualify for the procedure. Once your loved one goes through with the operation, you can help see him/her through a successful post-operative journey toward health by lending your support.

Kathryn Lively writes about Hampton Roads health issues.