Patients are more likely to succeed in making the lifelong changes that are required after bariatric surgery if they have a high level of motivation and good support from family, friends and peers. In particular, successful patients recognize and change their emotional response to food.
Patients are strongly encouraged to participate in the Weight Loss Surgery Support Group made up of patients who are at various stages of the process. Led by Bariatric Program coordinator Pat Foster, R.N., a successful bariatric patient, the monthly support group is for men and women who have undergone or are preparing to undergo weight loss surgery. The group features visits by guest experts as well as general discussion.