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Support of Family & Friends

It is important for patients to have the support of family and friends when they undergo a life-changing procedure such as bariatric surgery.

The changes in your diet and lifestyle after surgery will last a lifetime. And you'll have a greater chance of long-term success if you surround yourself with people who understand and support your goals.

Things you can do:

  • Help your friends and family members understand why you've chosen a surgical solution. Many people are under the impression that weight loss surgery is an experimental treatment rather than one with more than 40 years of history. Direct them to this Web site or others in our Additional Resources section. It's important that they understand that morbid obesity is a disease and that diets don't work for you.
  • People who are morbidly obese often report that their spouses, or others close to them, seem to discourage weight loss. These people see your weight as part of your identity. Understand that this is a fear of change. Discuss your reasons for having surgery. They need to know that your health is at stake and you will be counting on them to help you during and after surgery.
  • Attend one of the bariatric support groups sponsored by Methodist Health System. It is well known that patients who meet on a regular basis for support and guidance have the best outcomes after bariatric surgery.
    • Beginning Bariatric Support Group for patients and their families pre-surgery and up to one year post surgery.
    • Life After Bariatric Surgery (LABS) for patients and their families one-year after surgery and beyond.
    • Information can be found on the Classes & Support Groups Calendar at www.bestcare.org.

We also recommend checking out the ObesityHelp.com Web site with great information for people considering bariatric surgery.

Online Support

Some of our patients are also involved in an online support group. They have been supporting each other for over five years and there are more than 250 members. Click here to visit the online group and chat with other patients of Dr. Anthone and Dr. Winterstein.