Losing weight is not all about quantity, rather quality. What does that mean? There’s no right weight for everyone, rather a right weight for you. Unfortunately, many weight loss surgery patients are their own harshest critics. What they imagine themselves to look like is different than what they actually do look like. They have a distorted body image. While this is not uncommon – after all most lived with obesity for years and decades – it must be overcome to make ways for the pride and joy that comes with a true accomplishment.
If you turn on the television or pick up just about any magazine, you will most likely see images that have contributed to the generally incorrect image of what is normal. Too often the message reads “Thinner is better.” Unfortunately, that is not the reality. The average American should not be a size 0, so why are we expected to be?
Body image issues affect women more than they do men and the problem can be harmful if left untreated. With counseling, patients are often able to confront and overcome these thoughts and learn to appreciate the journey they’re on.
With weight loss surgery, a patient has the ability to lose a great deal of weight very quickly. But you shouldn’t expect to feel thin right away. Most importantly, don’t be afraid to talk to someone. Weight loss surgery is a life-changing procedure and with a drastic change comes the need to adapt – often slowly – to the new times. That’s what friends, family and counselors are there to help you with.
