Thousands of Americans have achieved dramatic weight loss thanks to surgical techniques. We often hear about the success stories, but rarely do people speak of the failures. Eight years ago Jennifer Charlton ran out of options. Diets failed her and a leg injury prevented her from exercising. At 5'3 she weighed 300 pounds. She researched bariatric surgery for a year and decided it was the right choice for her.
In 2001 a doctor surgically made her stomach smaller. The procedure was a success and in a few months Jennifer lost nearly 150 pounds.
But instead of embracing her new look, Jennifer felt disconnected.
"It was just strange to look in the mirror and not recognize myself and not feel like I was in my own body." Click here to Launch Video
Two years after surgery a personal crisis spiraled her into a deep depression. Unable to cope, Jennifer sought comfort in unhealthy food and alcohol.
A chronic insomniac, she used the wine to help her sleep. Eventually the weight crept back on. She needed help but didn't know where to turn.
She's not alone. When Jennifer had her surgery bariatric programs were relatively new. They've learned much since then including how to help patients cope with problems years after surgery. However, it only works with a willing patient.
Courtney Holbrook, Ph.D. is a psychologist for St. Vincent Charity Hospital's Center for Bariatric Surgery. She encourages patients not to feel ashamed or alone.
On average a bariatric patient may regain about ten percent of their weight after two to five years. For those who gain much more, most programs offer intervention.
Karen Schulz, R.N. is the Executive Director of St. Vincent's program, "the first thing we tell them is not to be embarrassed we just want to help them and many people have just forgotten the behaviors and the choices that they need to make to be successful for a lifetime."
Jennifer doesn't regret having the surgery and is now trying to get back on track. She's now being treated for depression and hopes her story helps others.
"I guess I forgave myself and I don't feel like I should be ashamed. I did my best you know with the information that I had and maybe everybody did their best but maybe it can be better now."
Click on video to watch Monica's story.
Patients are given a schedule of who they will see (surgeon, dietitian, psychology team) at each phase of recovery. Patients make their next follow-up appointment at the end of their current visit. Program makes reminder phone calls for patients who have missed their appointments and send letters as well.
Specific plan designed for patients who regain weight. Exam to make sure there is not a physical reason for the weight gain (gastric pouch stretched, anastomosis (connection between gastric pouch and intestine) is too big).
Patient given appointments to work with dietitian in recording their food intake and exercise routine and refer them back to our psychological team to help determine the cause for weight regain.
Patients required to not only have a psychological evaluation and counseling pre-operatively, but they must also follow-up with psychological team at least quarterly for the 1st year after surgery, whether the patient feels it's necessary or not.
Typically patients get caught up in the euphoria of rapid weight loss initially, but they still need to make behavioral changes to maintain the weight loss, so psychological support is important.
Structured monthly support group meetings, with a 3 year curriculum that includes guest speakers as well as a time to share questions and concerns with the Bariatric Center staff in a group setting.
Patients asked to sign a contract, with themselves, making a commitment to attend at least 75% of support group meetings their 1st year after surgery.
Addiction help offered through psychological team.
Summa Health System
All patients considering surgery receive comprehensive education from the Bariatric Care Center?s multidisciplinary team. This includes an initial seminar led by one of Summa?s bariatric surgeons, a nutrition assessment from the center?s registered dietitian, a psychological assessment, an individualized exercise plan from a clinical exercise specialist, an intensive pre-operative education class, and monthly support groups. Additionally, after surgery, all patients are encouraged to follow-up annually for life.
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