People struggling with obesity have the same range of emotions as everyone else. At one time or another, we have all experienced disappointment or joy. However, in some studies involving obese patients who were to have bariatric surgery, a significant number of them suffered from clinical depression, generalized anxiety disorder, or social phobia prior to surgery.

Not only have researchers reported improvements in depression and anxiety in patients who had bariatric surgery, but improved health-related quality of life, self-esteem, and marital satisfaction have also been recognized. Learn more about the benefits of the REALIZE™ Personalized Banding Solution.

Some of the emotions you may feel after REALIZE^TM Band surgery may surprise you. Don’t worry. You are not alone. The following are examples of what some patients experience after surgery.

• The addiction to food is “transferred” to an addiction to something else such as exercise or weighing one’s self
• Some individuals report feeling depressed immediately after surgery. They wonder if they have made the right decision to have surgery and/or feel overly scared that the band won’t work.
• Some say they miss being able to take in a big mouthful of food and swallowing it.
• Some report that certain foods they liked before surgery no longer taste good, while other foods become more flavorful.
• Some patients are surprised and somewhat uncomfortable with the amount of attention they receive from the opposite sex after they had lost a significant amount of weight.

While it’s important to be aware of potential emotional changes, take comfort in knowing that your bariatric program is there to help guide you. Be sure to check out our  Patient Stories page to hear first hand from other REALIZE^TM Band patients who have dealt with emotional changes after surgery.

Next: Understanding Your Changing Body >