6-Step Guide To Maximize Weight Loss After Bariatric Surgery

Bariatric surgery is a huge step toward a healthier future. But surgery is only the beginning.

Research shows that long-term success with weight loss after surgery depends on building consistent habits like nutrition and physical activity. Here, bariatric surgeon Sandra Wischmeyer, DO, shares six tips to help you maximize your success. Dr. Wischmeyer is an independent physician who chooses to practice at Franciscan Health Bariatric Services in Michigan City, Ind.

Key Takeaways: Bariatric Surgery Weight Loss Success

• Bariatric surgery is a major step in your weight-loss journey. Afterward, small decisions matter most, such as what you eat and how much exercise you get.
• How much weight you lose is only one measure of success. Don’t forget to celebrate non-scale victories, like more energy and less joint pain.
• If your weight loss stalls, reach out to your care team for help. They can recommend ways to help you get back on track.

Step 1: Follow Your Post-Op Care Instructions

Before you leave the hospital, your care team will provide detailed instructions for your next steps in your weight-loss journey. These include guidance on your medicines, wound care and when you can resume your daily routine. It’s important to follow these instructions, even on days when you may not feel your best.

Start slowly and build up your activity level as recommended. Short walks and light movement can help you heal and prevent complications.

If something does not feel right, contact your provider.

Step 2: Adjust To Your New Bariatric Diet

When you return home, your diet will follow a gradual progression. You will:

• Follow a clear liquid diet for about one week
• Move to a full liquid diet
• Progress to soft foods
• Return to solid foods based on your care team’s guidance

Your care team will give you a clear plan that outlines what to eat, how much and when. As you return to solid foods, remember: It’s not just what you eat, but how you eat. To maximize weight loss after bariatric surgery, focus on these habits:

• Eat protein first at each meal
• Keep portions small
• Chew food thoroughly
• Avoid foods high in sugar or fat
• Drink fluids between meals, not during meals

“Many patients look at bariatric surgery as the finish line, since it is sometimes such a long process to get approved,” said Jon Mandelbaum, MD, Medical Director for the Franciscan Health Weight Loss Center in Indianapolis.  “This couldn’t be farther from the truth. Surgery is actually the starting line. I tell my patients that bariatric surgery is a shove in the right direction, but that I will count on them to keep things coursing in the right direction. Measuring portions forever to avoid stretching out their gastric pouch, making healthy food choices, and regular exercise, are the keys to long-term success.”

Step 3: Keep Your Post-Op Appointments

Follow-up care plays a key role in your success. You will meet with your bariatric team at regular intervals after surgery. Most patients follow this schedule:

• 10 days
• Three weeks
• Six weeks
• Three months
• Six months
• 12 months
• 18 months
• Two years

After two years, you will see your care team once each year.

During these visits, your provider will:

• Check your weight loss progress
• Review your eating and activity habits
• Run lab tests to monitor vitamin levels

These appointments are an important part of your care, even if you feel good and are back to your routine. They help you stay accountable and address concerns early. If you need extra support, your team can schedule more frequent visits.

Step 4: Celebrate Non-Scale Victories

Dr. Wischmeyer said one way to maximize success after surgery is to pay more attention to the “non-scale victories,” rather than just the number on the scale. 

“Pay attention to how you feel, how much energy you have and what you can do now,” she said. “It’s important for patients not to put all of their worth and sense of accomplishment into how much the number on the scale goes down.”

Many people regain some weight over time. Focus on your daily habits and overall well-being, not just the scale. It can help you stay consistent and positive.

Step 5: Find Support From Others Who Face Similar Challenges

It is easier to be consistent with healthy habits if you share your successes and challenges with other people, said Dr. Wischmeyer. “It can be exceptionally difficult when people attempt to go through this process alone,” she added.

A bariatric support group can help you stay accountable to your new lifestyle after bariatric surgery. Whether in-person or online, these groups are a place to share victories and struggles with others who face similar challenges.

Visit our event center to find support groups and weight loss and wellness classes near you. 

Step 6: If You Get Off Track, Contact Your Care Team

Weight loss does not happen at the same pace forever. Most people reach their lowest weight about 18 months after surgery.

If you hit a weight loss plateau, take these steps:

• Review your daily food choices
• Check portion sizes
• Increase physical activity
• Stay consistent with vitamins and hydration

Contact your provider if your weight begins to creep up. They may recommend additional strategies, including medication or more frequent follow-ups, to support your progress.

“It’s not uncommon for previous habits to resurface,” said Dr. Wischmeyer. “The team’s goal is to help you realign with your weight loss goals and maintain accountability.”

Take The Next Step

Bariatric surgery is a life-changing step. With the right habits, support and follow-up care, you can build lasting results and improve your overall health. If you need additional support to maintain your progress or overcome new challenges, Franciscan Health’s comprehensive bariatric services team is here to help.