Bariatric surgery is a life-changing procedure that can help individuals struggling with obesity achieve long-term weight loss and improve their overall health. However, maintaining weight loss and overall health after bariatric surgery requires ongoing follow-up and care. Here are some tips and strategies to help make yearly follow-up a habit after bariatric surgery.
Schedule appointments in advance: Scheduling yearly follow-up appointments in advance can help ensure that appointments are not forgotten or neglected. This may involve scheduling appointments at the time of surgery or setting reminders to schedule appointments throughout the year.
Keep a record of appointments: Keeping a record of yearly follow-up appointments can help establish a habit of yearly follow-up after bariatric surgery. This may involve using a calendar, planner, or app to track appointments.
Find a supportive healthcare provider: Finding a supportive healthcare provider who is knowledgeable about bariatric surgery and can provide ongoing care and support can help establish a habit of yearly follow-up. This may involve seeking recommendations from others who have undergone bariatric surgery or conducting research online.
Set reminders: Setting reminders on a phone or computer can serve as a helpful reminder to schedule yearly follow-up appointments. This may involve setting reminders several months in advance to allow time to schedule and prepare for appointments.
Involve others: Involving a partner, friend, or family member in yearly follow-up appointments can provide motivation and support. This can also make it a social activity that is more enjoyable.
Recognize the importance of yearly follow-up: Understanding the importance of yearly follow- up can help establish a habit of yearly follow-up after bariatric surgery. Yearly follow-up appointments can help monitor weight loss, detect potential complications, and provide ongoing support and guidance.
In summary, establishing a habit of yearly follow-up after bariatric surgery is critical to maintaining weight loss and overall health. By scheduling appointments in advance, keeping a record of appointments, finding a supportive healthcare provider, setting reminders, involving others, and recognizing the importance of yearly follow-up, individuals can effectively establish a habit of yearly follow-up after bariatric surgery. If you're struggling to establish a habit of yearly follow-up after bariatric surgery, consider seeking support from a therapist or support group to help manage emotional or psychological barriers to yearly follow-up.