SUPPORT GROUP

Advice from Weight Loss Surgery Patients, Part 3

Learn more about weight loss surgery at Rocky Mountain Associated Physicians || www.RMAP.com || (801) 268-3800

As you prepare for bariatric surgery, it is normal to experience a range of emotions. Hopefully one of them is excitement as we are excited for you and the commitment you have made to work toward a healthier lifestyle. Weight loss surgery never has been or will be the “easy way out.” This is why we feel the support you receive before and after surgery are vital to your long-term success!

Rocky Mountain Associated Physicians (RMAP) requires all patients to participate in a comprehensive Education Program to help you prepare, and continue to support you on your journey post-operatively. Which is why in our private Facebook support group page, we have asked our patients “What advice do you have for patients considering weight loss surgery?”, and these were their answers:

Leesha – 1: don’t be afraid, better health is awaiting! 2: Start taking vitamins before surgery. 3: Hair will fall off, but will grow again. 4: Walk and drink lots of water. 5: RMAP has the best doctors and care.

Heather – LOVE YOURSELF!

Susan – Weight loss surgery is a tool, you still have to put in a lot of work. 2. Make sure you’re ready to make a lifetime change. 3. Don’t compare yourself to others, some lose slower and some faster. 4. It’s a marathon not a sprint 5. Trust the process and believe in yourself

Suzan – It literally saved my life! It hasn’t been easy but worth it! Always work in progress! Best decision in my life! It will be 11 years in December!

Shanna – It is life changing. Don’t put it off, just do it. Follow the blue Bible and the support of the FB page and staff at RMAP. You won’t regret it!!

Lisa – Drastic change amazing results and the best follow up support ever. I have friends who have got the surgery elsewhere and they are blown away by the consistency and overall care RMAP provides. It takes a village.

Rebecca – View the surgery as the beginning of your new lifelong health, not a diet to lose some weight. Research, ask questions, listen to the RMAP consults before the surgery so you are prepared. This surgery isn’t for everyone (but definitely was for me and no regrets!), but learning something after surgery is too late. Follow the RMAP plan and dietician training 100% for optimal success. Truly the best!

Stephanie – You may regret it, but when you are there, try to remember that just because you have regrets doesn’t mean it was the wrong decision.

Daniela – When you’re truly ready for the changes wls brings, it’ll feel like it was easy even when you know how hard it is. Take pictures before and every step during. It will help you get over your body dysmorphia a bit easier. Remember, it took you a lifetime of bad habits and genetics to get to the point you turned to the surgery for help freeing yourself from all the pain and discomfort of your fat cocoon. Expect it to take time to reach your goal. But don’t delay living your best life as you work towards goal. Everyone’s goal is different while similar. And that means everyone’s journey won’t be quite the same either. But trust the process. Drink the water! Take the vitamins! Eat the protein! Avoid the grains and potatoes and pastas and junk! Move your body! And laugh often. Love yourself enough to do this for yourself!

Jodi – The Rouen y gastric bypass saved my life. You need to understand that losing the weight is still going to take work. Also, it’s not going to solve every issue you have. It’s not a cure all. My advice is to make sure you are getting therapy. I also recommend if you have a partner that you go to couple’s therapy. It’s VERY important. This year marked 21 years since my surgery. I lost 165lbs and have been able to keep it off. So not get discouraged when the weight loss slows down. You’ve got this!

Michelle – Just do it! I was scared and put it off for years after my doctor suggested looking into bariatric surgery. I’d never had surgery before and had family that had bariatric surgery decades ago who experienced complications, and had put most of the weight back on which made me very hesitant to seriously look at this option for myself. Eventually, I joined FB groups and polled them all with one of the questions being, “would you do it again?” 100% said yes – even my family members and others who had had complications. The only regret they seemed to have was not doing it sooner. I’m only 8.5 month post op but I agree with them! Being able to breathe, not sweat profusely, willingly take the stairs, have energy and endurance to keep up with my kids, and work with my horses at 44 is life changing. I do wish I’d done it sooner!

If you would like to read more patient stories for more information on how patients have done after weight loss surgery, go here.

www.RMAP.com
Rocky Mountain Associated Physicians
801-268-3800
1521 East 3900 South, Suite 100
SLC, UT 84124

Stress and Weight Gain

Feb 8 By rmap nurse

Learn more about weight loss surgery at Rocky Mountain Associated Physicians www.RMAP.com (801) 268-3800

Stress brought on by challenges or demands that lead you to feel worried, frustrated, anxious, or upset can cause the body to react in a negative way. Not only can stress affect your physical health, it can impact your emotional and psychological health as well.

You could be familiar with the terms “emotional eating,” “stress eating,” “head hunger,” or “emotional hunger.” Any of these terms can affect your weight loss. When people stress-eat, they often keep eating even though they are no longer hungry. It could be hard not to mindlessly eat, not paying attention to how much or what they eat.

Eating in response to unpleasant or uncomfortable emotions most often means turning to “comfort” foods, such as ice cream, chocolate, cookies, cakes, potato chips, and fried foods to name a few. When people are in emotional turmoil, hardly are salads, veggies, or a type of protein-packed snack reached for. When foods are high in calories and low in nutrition, it is a recipe for some type of weight gain.

It’s no secret that life is stressful. How often have you found yourself saying, “life just happened,” or “I’m dealing with a lot of stress right now.” If you turn to food to make yourself feel better, feel like food makes you feel safe, or a quick fix to heartache or loneliness, these are indications that it could be from an emotional-eating standpoint and not actual physical hunger.

The bottom line is that stress can lead to the release of hormones such as cortisol, which stimulates your fat and carbohydrate metabolism, creating a surge of energy in your body, increasing your appetite. Elevated cortisol levels can cause cravings for sweet, fatty, and salty foods.¹

Ways to Help Manage Stress

Identifying how you feel, recognizing what you need, and choosing what to do instead of grabbing for unhealthy food options is an imperative habit to form to help avoid stress-eating. You could be thinking that’s easier said than done, but with committed effort and resilient determination, you can develop this new habit over time and keep up with your weight loss, too!

Practice Relaxation: This can be done through mindfulness meditation, yoga, or deep breathing. These options can help bring hormones down to normal levels.

Consume High-Quality Foods: Even though you might be having cravings or want a “quick fix,” try to aim for whole, plant-based foods. These foods will be turned into energy instead of being converted into fat and stored by the body.

Exercise: Getting out for a daily walk, run, or getting into the gym is an excellent way to manage stress hormones. Any type of movement, such as dancing, swimming, sports, hiking, etc. is considered exercising. So, make it fun and enjoyable to do!

Getting Enough Sleep: Following a regular sleep routine calms and restores the body. Sleep also decreases cortisol levels, which if you remember, cortisol is accountable for your fight or flight reaction to danger, increasing your heart rate in anticipation of a fight. Is has been studied that getting less than five hours of sleep a night has been linked to cortisol-related issues, such as high blood pressure.² Try to get at least 7-9 hours of sleep each night to avoid the rise in hormone levels.

Support Groups: Participating in groups provide an excellent opportunity to be surrounded by others who likely know and understand similar situations you could be experiencing. It is a judge-free zone where you can talk openly and honestly. You can express your feelings while getting feedback from fellow patients who can share their experience, and can give helpful tips which could work for you too. Rocky Mountain Associated Physicians (RMAP) believes it very beneficial to our patients to provide group therapy for all patients who wish to be supported in this way.

For more information on our support groups and how to join them, please visit here.

It is imperative to take care of yourself and prioritize yourself, which means taking the time to do things that help you live well and improve both your physical and mental health. These are just a few examples to help you begin implementing healthy habits into your daily life.

Don’t forget the most important thing during your life time…which is YOU!

www.RMAP.com
Rocky Mountain Associated Physicians
801-268-3800
1160 East 3900 South, Suite 4100
SLC, UT 84124

Resources

William Shaw, PhD; Susan Labott-Smith, PhD, ABPP; Matthew M. Burg, PhD; Camelia Hostinar, PhD; Nicholas Alen, BA; Miranda A.L. van Tilburg, PhD; Gary G. Berntson, Phd; Steven M. Tovian, PhD, ABPP, FAClinP, FAClinHP; and Malina Spirito, PsyD, Med, “Stress effects on the body”, American Psychological Association; 2018 Nov 1, https://www.apa.org/topics/stress/body
Leproult, G. Copinschi, O. Buxton, E Van Cauter, “Sleep loss results in an elevation of cortisol levels the next evening”, 1997 Oct; 20(10):865-70, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9415946

Setting Goals after Bariatric Surgery 2023

Dec 21 By rmap nurse

Learn more about weight loss surgery at Rocky Mountain Associated Physicians www.RMAP.com (801) 268-3800

People often criticize bariatric surgery as “taking the easy way out.” We know that there is nothing easy about the decision and commitments you have made. We acknowledge your bravery and hard work to get you where you are today. As we enter the New Year, we hope you will continue to focus on the new you.

Finding worth in self is probably the biggest challenge all of us face. We forget who we are. Once we remember and reclaim our worth, our loves take on new meaning. Positive self-talk is one of the keys to your long-term success. If you think positively about yourself, you are more apt to shower yourself with rewards and self-praise that will keep you on the path of a healthy lifestyle.

Even though bariatric surgery affords many physical advantages, you may still struggle with some other emotional difficulties. Most of us fall into the trap of assuming a change in our lives will solve all of our problems. How often have you thought to yourself: “If I just had a new house, more money, more time, a new job or more space, I would be happy?” Many of you may have thought to yourselves before having bariatric surgery that losing weight would make you forever happy and your problems would go away. Many of us have realized that way of thinking is in vain. None of these things will take away emotional difficulties. The road to health is not an easy one. You will experience a lot of challenges that will be difficult to deal with.

Tips for Setting Goals for 2023

Here are suggestions and tips as you set your goals for the New Year. Keep these in mind and remember you are of worth and that you are accomplishing so much:

Refrain from negative self-talk where you call yourself stupid, dumb, fat, lazy, or a failure. Replace these words with verifiable examples of successful behaviors, not concepts.
Refrain from talking negatively about yourself to others. When you talk negatively about yourself to others, you are providing them with instruction on how you wish to be treated. Begin to put a voice to your success no matter how small.
If you are part of a religious sect, turn to your faith for peace.
Check out books from the library about self-esteem.
Keep a journal on your emotional stability day to day. Record the choices you make that bring you joy and stability.
Continue attending support groups. Make friends with patients in your groups. It helps to confide in someone who has had the same experience as you. Share your challenges and successes.
Emotional difficulties are a part of life, but sometimes a more serious problem is present. If you feel that you suffer with a psychiatric problem, do not be afraid to consult your primary care physician.

As you set your goals, it is also important to reward yourself for your accomplishments. Rewards should not be food related. Food is for nutrition. Reward yourself with something of value, such as a massage, new golf clubs, or a charm bracelet. Some have put money away for each 10 pounds lost, then gone on a vacation. Take the time to thank yourself and acknowledge yourself.

We hope you have a wonderful and happy New Year from us here at Rocky Mountain Associated Physicians (RMAP)!

www.RMAP.com
Rocky Mountain Associated Physicians
801-268-3800
1160 East 3900 South, Suite 4100
SLC, UT 84124

Finding Support and Being Aware

Oct 2 By rmap nurse

Learn more about weight loss surgery at Rocky Mountain Associated Physicians www.RMAP.com (801) 268-3800

Weight loss surgery not only transforms the physical body but also the emotional, social, and spiritual elements of an individual. There won’t be a single area of your life that goes untouched from the many changes that occur after weight loss surgery. You will be experiencing many emotional changes and feelings. For some patients, it can be a very difficult time. It can be strange to look in the mirror and realize that you are suddenly thinner, or seeing your clothes hanging differently on your body. It’s a time of transformation. You will be making decisions and become aware of what works and what doesn’t as you transition to a healthier lifestyle.

Losing weight and becoming healthier sounds ideal and wonderful, however, along with the fact of change, even when good, it can present obstacles and barriers of its own that must be overcome. Even with all of these positive changes, you may feel overwhelmed, alone, guilty, or just sad. Most surgery patients find that they have to redefine how they look at and feel about the world and themselves. The world may also look and treat you differently than you are used to.

After surgery, you will have the same life experiences, some joys but also same stressors that you held prior to surgery. In some ways, with your transitioning body, you will become a different person. Be positive. Co-morbidities will start resolving and you find that you want to do more. You will have more energy to deal with life challenges. New interests are apt to develop. You may find that you are attracted to doing things that in the past held no interest for you at all.

Sometimes we think that if only we were thin our problems will be solved, or we won’t have any problems. Yet, to our surprise, the weight is coming off, and the problems are still there. Weight loss may even present new issues.

Relationships with friends and family members may have to transition to new levels of understanding and areas of common interest. Increased intimacy with spouses is a common report among patients. However, the divorce rate among weight loss surgery patients is a cause for concern. If you are experiencing marital or relationship difficulties, consider seeking professional counseling. It is important to keep core beliefs and values in sight as the body makes the transition to health. Avoid important life altering decisions during the first eighteen months after surgery. Use this time to build new skills and implement practices that support and transition you to a lifestyle of health.

There will surely be relationship changes with spouses, family, friends, co-workers, and relatives. As you are getting out and doing more it might possibly be harder on them. It may even be their issue, but remember they are also dealing with these changes. It is possible that you may feel guilty over losing weight, when there are other people close to you who are still struggling with being overweight.

Weight loss and improved health is positive change. Success changes lives, circumstances and relationships. Reactions to an individual’s weight loss and change may vary. Keep in mind you cannot control the reactions of others. Some people may not know how to approach you anymore. Others may be jealous or envious and you may have to decide if you want to continue the relationship. These are normal reactions to major changes. Talk with people you are closest to and let them encourage you. Much is changing in your world. There will be people that don’t acknowledge your weight loss and others who seem to go on about it forever. Notice your responses to others and find positive ways to interact with them.

Clothing presents new opportunities of awareness. Dressing yourself will help you to acknowledge you weight loss success. Try new colors, cuts, and lengths. Realize that your style choices may change as your weight drops. Purchasing inexpensive clothing provides you with the opportunity to change your style and preferences as your weight and clothing size drops lower.

If you find that you have problems resolving situations in your life and your emotional state seems to be deteriorating, please seek some help. Professional counseling for just a short time has proven to be very helpful. We here at Rocky Mountain Associated Physicians are a great resource for referrals.

Communication and understanding with family and friends about side effects, health status, and emotional changes is imperative to help them alleviate fears and concerns about your well-being. Let your spouse, family, and friends support you. They may undergo a grieving process for the old lifestyle and patterns of food they were accustomed to. Spend time with them and develop new ways of interacting and socializing with each other.

Including your loved ones with your surgery can help both you and them long-term; the risks and the benefits. Discuss the nutritional changes that you will be implementing in your home and the roles they will play in your weight loss process. Invite your supporters to attend the informational classes, doctor appointments, and seminars. Having a support system will help you prepare both mentally and physically for changes, and for long-term success.

Attending support groups and classes are a great way to interact with others who have undergone weight loss surgery. Support groups and classes provide interaction and support with other patients. In these meetings the sharing of personal experiences helps provide support both emotionally and physically. Support group and education will help you ensure your long-term success.

The surgeons at Rocky Mountain Associated Physicians require that all patients invest real dollars into an educational program. Utilize your program, websites, classes and support groups to continually assist and remind you of the lifestyle of health that is essential for your success.

Here are some other ideas you could try to help find support:

Find a good listener, not necessarily an adviser, but someone who can listen and understand—maybe a spouse, a friend, a parent, a sibling, or someone who has been through the same experience.
Attend support group meetings in your area, or participate in our online support group on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/groups/RMAPsupportgroup/.
Call your nearest support group leader; they are delighted to listen to you.
Practice enjoying compliments; don’t let yourself make excuses or reasons to not accept a compliment. Just say “Thank You” when a compliment is given.
Do something for a special person. Write a note, send a card or call a long lost friend. It will add a lot to your day. This will help you not to be so concerned about yourself.
Surround yourself with emotionally healthy people and become one yourself.
Exercise reduces depression and anxiety. It increases feelings of well-being by causing the body to produce more endorphins. It improves ones ability to handle stress, and improves self-image.

Change, even when positive, causes stress and may present obstacles that you need to overcome.

Discouraging thoughts are common to have after weight loss surgery. Some commonly reported thoughts are:

“How many times have I lost this much weight before only to regain it?”
“I’m afraid that I’ll stop losing.”
“Is it really going to stay off this time?”
Why do people tell me I look ill?”

Stay out of the trap of negative self-talk. It serves no purpose. Implementing a lifestyle of health in combination with the surgery has put you in the position of success. Celebrate that fact and celebrate yourself.

For more information on RMAP’s support groups, go here.
For more information on RMAP’s seminars, go here.

Find more answers to Frequently Answered Questions here.

www.RMAP.com
Rocky Mountain Associated Physicians
801-268-3800
1160 East 3900 South, Suite 4100
SLC, UT 84124

Be Kind to Yourself

Jun 13 By rmap nurse

Learn more about weight loss surgery at Rocky Mountain Associated Physicians www.RMAP.com (801) 268-3800

People often criticize surgery weight loss surgery patients, saying they took the easy way out. There is nothing about surgery that is easy. It is important that you acknowledge the bravery it took to make and follow through on your decision.

Self-acknowledgement propels progress and is a tool for transformation.

Resolution of Co-Morbidities
With weight loss the body moves from a sick place towards health. Physiological changes occur such as the resolution of co-morbidities. You are now becoming free of physical limitations and experiencing a great quality of life. For continued success it is important that you acknowledge and recognize the positive changes.

The Reflection in the Mirror
For most of your life you have grown accustomed to a certain reflection in the mirror. This reflection may not be what you wanted to see, but it was familiar. Letting go of the familiar whether it be your reflection, self-concept, or self-esteem can be emotionally upsetting and difficult. Because of the rapid weight loss you are experiencing what you see in the mirror is changing frequently.

You may have based your self-worth and value as a human being on what the scale read or your appearance. Some individuals with morbid obesity go through life with negative self-persecuting thought processes that place them on self-trial, and self-condemnation. A rendering of a variety of negative self-punishments often takes place that leads to a life filled with self-defacement and self-dehumanization. This self-dehumanization is often used to reinforce negative self-talk. Here a thinking process occurs that no matter what you accomplish or do it simply is not good enough.

Be kind to the reflection you see in the mirror as you transform. Recognize that not everyone looks like s upper model. Focus on physical features that you like. This will help you accept areas you consider to be liabilities. We all are unique and everyone possesses beauty of some type. Recognize and acknowledge your own value and personal beauty.

The surgeons and staff of Rocky Mountain Associated Physicians embrace the fact that every individual is of value and worth. Your value and worth is independent of social status, financial assets, and level of education, past personal history, accomplishments or personal failures. All individuals contribute to the world and are of value. Please follow this example and acknowledge this in yourself.

Accept the new image that is forming in the mirror. When you accept and are kind to yourself you are able to welcome and accept lifestyle changes. These lifestyle changes will give you the gift of a more enriched and fuller life.

Some individuals may reject the emerging self and seek to sabotage the surgery and further punish themselves by eating foods that will slow down or reverse their weight loss. Take steps to emotionally accept yourself as a thinner person. This is something you may have dreamed about all of your life. Self-rejection will sabotage that dream.

Some steps that you can take to more fully accept yourself now and the emerging you are:

Refrain from negative self-talk where you call yourself “stupid,” “dumb,” “fat,” “lazy,” or a “failure.”
Refrain from talking negatively about yourself to others. When you talk negatively to others about yourself, to others you are providing them with instruction on how you wish to be treated.

Ask yourself if you want to live in a reality that provides positive life experiences or a reality in which you set yourself up through negative self-talk and self-bashing to experience unnecessary challenges and conflicts. It is in your control.

Positive self-talk is one of the keys to your long-term success. If you think positively about yourself you are apt to shower yourself with rewards and self-praise that will keep you on the path of a lifestyle of health. You deserve nice things and experiences. Refrain from self-fault finding and the making of self-determinations that you are simply not worthy of having a good life.

Fitness
Acknowledge the freedom that a healthy weight is giving you. Focus on the simple things such as walking in the mall, not needing to park next to the entrance when you go out, carrying in your own groceries, walking up or down stairs, or no longer being winded or hot during simple exertion.

Reward Yourself
Set incremental goals for weight loss and fitness. As you meet each short-term goal you may find yourself in a new place. Reward yourself with something of value. Rewards should not be food related, or clothing related. Food is for nutrition. Your clothing size is rapidly changing. Reward yourself with something of value like a massage, new golf clubs, or a charm on your charm bracelet. Take the time to thank yourself and acknowledge yourself.

www.RMAP.com
Rocky Mountain Associated Physicians
801-268-3800
1160 East 3900 South, Suite 4100
SLC, UT 84124

Psychosocial and Emotional Effects of Weight Loss Surgery

May 2 By rmap nurse

Learn more about weight loss surgery at Rocky Mountain Associated Physicians www.RMAP.com (801) 268-3800

Weight loss surgery is only a tool. When utilized correctly it is an effective means of losing weight and keeping it off. Most patients are surprised to discover that even after surgery they have to be aware of what they are eating, drinking and engage in exercise to maintain long term weight loss.

The patients who adopt the recommended lifestyle of health by being aware of their eating, drinking, and exercise will maintain long-term success. Tracking progress with frequent weighing and measuring will help improve the awareness you have of your actual success. The surgeons and staff at Rocky Mountain Associated Physicians (RMAP) will help you to be a long-term success but the ultimate decision is yours and yours alone to make.

Weight loss surgery not only transforms the physical body but also the emotional, social, and spiritual elements of an individual. There will not be a single area of your life that goes untouched from the changes that occur after weight loss surgery.
Post-operatively, you will have the same life experiences, same joys but also same stressors that you held prior to surgery. In many ways you will become a different person. Co-morbidities will start resolving and you find that you want to do more. You will have more energy to deal with life challenges. New interests are apt to develop. You may find that you are attracted to doing things that in the past held no interest for you at all.

Most surgery patients find that they have to redefine how they look at and feel about the world and themselves. The world may also look and treat you differently than you are accustomed. Overtime you will discover that you have broken free of the stereotypes and social limitations that are assigned to the morbidly obese.

All of this sounds wonderful to you now. However, you must be aware of the fact that change, even when good, presents obstacles and barriers of its own that must be overcome. Developing strategies now for dealing with the changes you are about to experience will make life easier on you and those who support you in your lifestyle of health.

Weight loss surgery patients have reported difficulties in seeing themselves as the different person everyone perceives them to be. You may still look in the mirror and see or feel like the obese person you once were. Although this may not be true for all weight loss surgery patients, it is important to make you aware that this has proven to be common for many patients. Patients have found professional counseling to be beneficial in this transition.

Support Groups and Classes
Attending support groups and classes are a great way to interact with others who have undergone weight loss surgery. Support groups and classes provide interaction and support with other patients. In these meetings the sharing of personal experiences helps provide support both emotionally and physically. Support group and education will help you ensure your long-term success. You are welcome, and we recommend that you attend a support group meeting in your area.

Communication with Loved Ones
Don’t forget to include your spouse, family and friends in your transformation. When you commit yourself to living the lifestyle of health your family should participate in that process with you.

It is expected that you’ll need the support of your spouse, significant other, family members, or extended support system following surgery. However, it is imperative that you carefully consider what your surgery and its outcome means to them.
Please talk with them at length about the surgical procedure and its risks and benefits. Discuss the nutritional changes that you will be implementing in your home and the roles they will play in your weight loss process. Having a support system will help you in the long-term.

Relationship/Marital or family counseling is highly encouraged for those who are experiencing problems or having difficulty making the necessary adjustments. Please talk to RMAP if you are in need of any referrals.

The decision to undergo this life changing surgery should never be taken lightly. Begin your preparation both mentally and physically now! This will minimize your risks and improve your long-term success.

For more information on Support Groups, go here.
For more information on Bariatric Surgery support with Michelle Lewis, LCSW, go here.
For some inspiring words from Social Worker, Leslee Miller, MSW, LCSW, go here.
Find more answers to Frequently Answered Questions here.

www.RMAP.com
Rocky Mountain Associated Physicians
801-268-3800
1160 East 3900 South, Suite 4100
SLC, UT 84124

Bariatric Surgery Support with Michelle Lewis

Feb 20 By rmap nurse

Learn more about weight loss surgery at Rocky Mountain Associated Physicians www.RMAP.com (801) 268-3800

Do you live out-of-area or find it difficult to make it to Support Group each month? We are excited to share that Michelle Lewis, LCSW with Salt Lake Weight Counseling is offering online coaching for emotional eating. Experience one on one video coaching sessions to help you change your relationship with food and remove barriers to weight loss.

Choose from an 8-week coaching package or purchase seminar videos without coaching sessions.

Call to learn more or make an appointment today at (801) 907-7391 or here.

www.RMAP.com
Rocky Mountain Associated Physicians
801-268-3800
1160 East 3900 South, Suite 4100
SLC, UT 84124

Follow Us on Facebook!

Jul 19 By rmap nurse

Learn more about weight loss surgery at Rocky Mountain Associated Physicians www.RMAP.com (801) 268-3800

Follow Rocky Mountain Associated Physicians (RMAP) on Facebook! Like Rocky Mountain Associated Physicians on Facebook and stay up-to-date on Support Groups, new stories, and RMAP events.

If you are a current patient post-op from weight loss surgery and would like to join our private Facebook support group, please send a friend request to RMAP Nurse or email Jessica at jessica@rmapinc.com to be added into this group.

www.RMAP.com
Rocky Mountain Associated Physicians
801-268-3800
1160 East 3900 South, Suite 4100
SLC, UT 84124

Advice From Weight Loss Surgery Patients – Part 2

May 31 By rmap nurse

Learn more about weight loss surgery at Rocky Mountain Associated Physicians www.RMAP.com (801) 268-3800

As you prepare for weight loss surgery, it’s normal to experience a range of emotions. Hopefully one of them is excitement as we are excited for you and the commitment you have made to work toward a healthier lifestyle. Weight loss surgery never has been or will be the “easy way out”. This is why we feel the support you receive before and after surgery are vital to your long term success! Rocky Mountain Associated Physicians (RMAP) requires all patients to participate in a comprehensive Education Program to help you prepare, and continue to support you on your journey after weight loss surgery.

One suggestion the RMAP surgeons have for those considering weight loss surgery is to speak with someone who has had surgery. Go directly to the source. Ask questions about how they prepared for surgery, their recovery and the tips they have found helpful throughout their journey.

If you are interested in talking with someone who has had weight loss surgery, you can read our Patient Stories on our blog.

On Rocky Mountain Associated Physicians Facebook page, weight loss surgery patients were asked,

“What advice do you have for patients considering weight loss surgery?”

Jerilyn- Do your research. Make sure you understand the physical and emotional work this entails. Also, you need to understand this is not a temporary thing. You have to make a major change in your lifestyle. Don’t think that once the weight is gone that you can go back to your old habits. For this to work, you have to change your habits and attitudes about food and activity. Talk to people that have done this and find out about their journey.

Tara- Just keep going. No regrets. You’ll have rough days! But the end result is so worth it. You’ll be the “you” you’ve always known you could be. The reflection in the mirror after a year will make you smile and love what you see! Trust yourself. Trust your body. Trust that you can do hard things!

Mary- Yes, research. Plan on getting a god therapist that understands this journey! Believe in yourself. You will go through ups and downs and have highs and lows. This is a lifelong commitment. Don’t ever give up! Remember to take care of yourself first! RMAP is a huge support; you are never alone on this journey! Enjoy the decision you made…some days you may wonder why you did it. Your reflection in the mirror is your reward! Take pictures…lots of pictures! They will mark the milestones of the journey! Good luck!

Teresa- Take the time to research the doctors as well as speak to individuals who have had success as well as those who have not so you can ensure you’re walking in with your eyes open. Other doctors send patients home with a piece of paper and tell them after a few weeks they can eat what they want. Don’t listen to them. RMAP provides long term support and teaches you better habits for long term results. The support is there, but don’t expect them to do everything for you. You need to take ownership of your own life. Surgery isn’t the solution. It’s just a tool and it’s up to you if you use it. Eat healthy and incorporate exercise as soon as possible. Don’t use the excuse that you’re tired. Just do it and make it happen. It’s hard, but totally worth it.

Amanda- Don’t wait! My only regret was that I didn’t do it sooner.

Mahealani- Surgery is NOT a quick fix. It’s a long and very difficult journey. It’s rewarding, yes…But it does take time, effort and focus. Having a support team is vital to your success. As long as you are focused and prepared for a difficult road…You’ll succeed with an abundance of wonderful outcomes! You’re in control!

Kelley- Take frequent pictures and measurements. When I can’t see any changes in the mirror, I take a new picture and compare them. I’m always amazed at the changes that really have happened. Same with measurements. Sometimes the scale won’t budge but I’ll find I’ve lost inches. Don’t let the number on the scale get you down. You WILL have stalls. They are normal, they are natural. We’ve ALL had them. Don’t be afraid to get counseling or other professional help to assist you in figuring out the underlying emotional issues that caused you to overeat. If you don’t deal with those issues, you will fall back into old habits.

Marilyn- Do it, you will not be sorry, the only thing I was sorry about was that I didn’t do it sooner! Weight loss surgery saved my life!

Rob- Make sure to learn all you can learn, study everything you can before you decide if it is right for you. It is a lifelong commitment, are you willing to make the commitment? It is not a quick fix, it is not a cure all, it is not easy, and it’s not going to solve all of your problems. To be honest, it can add new problems. You will only get out of it what you put into it. Talk with your doctors, talk with the surgeons, talk with those who have had the surgery. If you put in the effort to understand as much as possible before you make the decision, then you will have a much greater chance of making it a success. There is only one person in this world who can guarantee how well it will work for you, it’s that person staring back at you when you look in the mirror. No one else can do it for you. It’s a huge effort, and it is well worth that effort, that I know from experience. Know what you are getting yourself into and be prepared for a wild ride.

Wendy- My husband is currently considering surgery, and we talk all of the time about the things you need to consider. Here are some of the things we talk about: Only YOU can decide what is right for you. Gather all of the information. Talk to people about it. Make an informed decision. You will have people who support you in your journey, but ultimately, it will be YOU who has made the commitment. As you socialize the idea with friends, buy phentermine online no scams colleagues and family about the weight loss surgery decision, there may be mixed reactions. This is normal. People may be worried about the risks and your health. Listen to those people who matter most, and don’t worry about the voices of those who don’t matter. Once the decision is made, look for those who are supportive to assist you with the physical and emotional changes. This is a lifestyle change, and you need to be in the right frame of mind to be ready for this change. While it is not the “easy way out,” once the decision is made, the rest flows pretty easily. The decision to have the surgery is probably the hardest part. As one who was morbidly obese, I can say this was one of the greatest decisions I ever made. My biggest regret is that I did not do this 10 years ago. I feel like I have my health back and a chance at greater longevity. It was worth it.

Amber- This is only a tool. But it is the best decision I’ve made. This is a lifestyle I chose and glad I did. This is not easy, but well worth the hard work and commitment I give. I will be eternally grateful for this tool and my newfound health.

Terri- You have to be mentally prepared, because you will have to work at it the rest of your life! Just because you have surgery doesn’t mean your problem is fixed! This is a second chance, a gift you won’t want to throw away on old behaviors! Don’t be afraid to get counseling! I don’t regret it one bit! It was the best then I ever did! I love my new life!

Mark- First and foremost, you need to be mentally prepared for the changes you will be making. You are committing yourself to a new lifestyle and new way of looking at food. You need to recognize that you have an addiction to food and recognize when you are in your addiction these are all things I had to learn to do as well. You need to know that weight loss surgery is not the CURE it is a TOOL, a very IMPRTANT TOOL in the toolbox. If you use it correctly, you will have and find success. I would like to tell you I had weight loss surgery on 4/18/16. I lost 195 pounds in my first year. I’m not bragging, I’m just trying to demonstrate that I did that because I followed the program laid out to me religiously. I made the decision to do whatever it took to take my life back. That is the kind of commitment you will need to muster to overcome your weight. I know that you can do it and I ROOT for you. RMAP has the best program and support staff available. I am very happy I made the decision to have weight loss surgery, it truly changed my life in fact it saved my life. Follow everything the doctors say to do which will be in your binder and come to support meetings once a month and you will find a new life at the end.

Debbie- You definitely have to be willing to change your lifestyle and eating habits. I had diabetes for 15 years and I tried every kind of diet there was to lose weight. When you are taking insulin, you automatically gain weight and inches without even changing your eating habits. It was a never ending battle and I wasted 15 years fighting it as the pounds packed on. So, when the opportunity came to have the DS surgery, I was really read. My life has changed dramatically and I feel I have been given a second chance at life. After two months, I was no longer taking insulin or blood pressure medicine. After six months, I was off of my CPAP, and after 10 months I am down 148 pounds. I have been walking on my treadmill almost every day and my stamina and energy level is the highest it’s been in years. I love the new me, but it hasn’t been easy. You still have baggage you have to deal with which takes a lot of will power and motivation along with a great support system at home, and through the support groups provided by RMAP.

Anonymous- Weight loss surgery left me with two tiny discolored places on my tummy, but no visible scars that I can find. Since two of my younger sisters and two younger brothers, all smaller than me, were diabetic, I felt the risk of diabetes was just WAY too high for me to wait around for a diagnosis, too. I had avoided it for many years, but my A1C kept creeping higher each blood test. My mother and her sister were both diabetic. My grandpa and all of his brothers and sisters had been diabetic. Was the surgery worth it? A MUCH EASIER surgery than having my limbs amputated, little at a time, going blind or any number of other horrible side effects from that horrible disease! Losing weight is not easy, no matter how it is accomplished, but this tool made it possible for me to lose 120 pounds so far, with very little physical pain. It has been much easier than any other method I have used, and I’ve lost the weight in my worth troubled spots, which didn’t happen on Weight Watchers or Adkins. My life was saved by this surgery, as surely as if Dr. McKinlay had pulled me from a raging river to save me from drowning. I had been almost bedfast for years, and now I am participating in life again. The only negative I complain about is that I no longer have fat filling up my wrinkles, so I’m dealing with looking my age, which I hadn’t before. That is a small price to pay for all the compliments I get on my looks now, and my husband and children’s pride in me. This is really a miracle for me!

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www.RMAP.com
Rocky Mountain Associated Physicians
801-268-3800
1160 East 3900 South, Suite 4100
SLC, UT 84124

Video Blog with Michelle Lewis, LSCW

Mar 22 By rmap nurse

Success vs Struggle After Weight Loss Surgery

“Bariatric surgery is a big decision. Unfortunately, many people who have surgery end up regaining some or most of the weight they lose. In this video, I explain one simple thing that helps patients to be successful.”

www.RMAP.com
Rocky Mountain Associated Physicians
801-268-3800
1160 East 3900 South, Suite 4100
SLC, UT 84124

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