Reported by:| Edited by: |Source: |Updated: Feb 3, 2022 13:28 IST
Bariatric surgery has emerged as one of the most reliable solutions to combat obesity. However, the mental health of the patient is another crucial aspect that must be considered prior to surgery, along with the physical and medical aspects of bariatric surgery.
Most bariatric surgeons seek to assess the patient’s mental health before proceeding with surgery. The patient is also likely to need counseling after bariatric surgery to maintain their health status.
Dr. Harsh Sheth, one of the leading bariatric surgeons in Mumbai, says: “We need to understand the patient regarding their weight problem: the challenges they face, the family support available, the patient’s mindset and many other factors. But at the same time, they need to have a strong support system after surgery.”
“We do a thorough assessment of the patient and look at their triggers, challenges, reasons for weight gain, binge eating, etc. Similarly, we must anticipate the patient’s innate ability to cope with psychological, behavioral, and relationship changes after surgery. We try to understand mood swings, especially depression, anxiety, and the emotional strength of the patient. We agree to the proposed bariatric surgery only if we are confident that the patient can positively deal with these challenges through psychological support.”
At this time, the treating surgeon educates the patient about the procedure and changes in lifestyle and eating habits while ensuring that the patient stays healthy by consuming vitamins and other essential supplements. There will be long-term changes in the patient’s body, both physically and mentally.
Dr Harsh Seth He also talks about the need for advice and support after bariatric surgery. He has treated cases where patients are unable to cope with post-surgical changes as expected.
Take, for example, Mrs. X, a 35-year-old woman with a history of binge eating disorder, who underwent bariatric surgery without counseling at another facility. He arrived at Dr. Harsh’s clinic 6 years later with a 30% weight gain. All she needed was counseling and psychotherapy to treat her binge eating disorder, after which she continued her weight loss journey in a healthier way.
diet restrictions – Patients with a history of binge eating or overeating should be aware that their food intake will be greatly reduced after surgery. However, as time goes on, your binge eating disorder may come back and cause unexpected weight gain.
Normal life after surgery – Immense efforts are needed to achieve a normal weight while exercising regularly, eating the recommended mini meals and having a positive mindset to enjoy the real benefits of bariatric surgery.
instant results – Bariatric surgery is a step forward to become a healthy individual with a normal lifestyle and weight. Patients should not think of it as a magic wand. It takes almost 12 to 24 months after surgery for the patient to lose all the extra weight after surgery.
State of mind – After bariatric surgery, patients may experience depression and mood swings, although not directly related to the surgery or their health status. It was before due to his obesity conditions. Should they slip in their exercise regimen or eating habits, then they may gain weight with the possibility of comorbidities resurfacing.
The bariatric surgeon and team should repeatedly counsel the patient to set realistic goals and expectations related to weight loss, reducing the risk of comorbidities, and maintaining a regular exercise routine to enjoy the best results from bariatric surgery. Both physically and mentally.
In conclusion, Dr. Harsh Sheth states: “Bariatric surgery is one of the most phenomenal advances in combating obesity, a health condition that has assumed epidemic status throughout the world. To get the best results from bariatric surgery, both patients and the medical team need to heed the advice, foster a positive mindset, and maintain regular follow-up.”
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