Bariatric surgery will not be the only thing that helps us find and maintain our happy, healthy weight. As patients, many of us believe that surgery will be the one thing, the only thing that will get us to a low and sustainable weight. Sure, we know there will be challenges and changes ahead, but surgery will be “the ticket” out of obesity and into our goal pants.

We are here to tell you this is categorically false. Surgery will be the primary treatment you will onboard to treat your disease of obesity, but to find and maintain a happy, healthy weight; you will need many other secondary or adjunct treatments along your journey. Obesity is a chronic and lifelong disease that has no known cure. The disease will present in new and challenging ways throughout our lives, even when your most visable symptom (excess weight) has disappeared.

Dr. Eric Smith, the director of the Kentucky Bariatric Institute, joins the BariNation crew for this powerful discussion that will empower you with the education you need to embrace your bariatric life. Dr. Smith is an advocate for patients and their lifelong care and believes in the power of community. Follow Dr. Smith on Instagram @doctorericsmith_ and visit him online at https://kentuckybariatricinstitute.com/

Are you feeling alone or stuck along your bariatric journey? Connect with fellow patients and experts in the BariNation Membership Community! Members can join virtual support led by bariatric therapists, classes taught by registered dietitians, wellness coaches, and movement experts, and meetups hosted by patient moderators. Try our community for 14 days to see if it is right for you! Find us at https://barination.mn.co

Follow BariNation on Instagram @bari.nation for continued support aligned with your bariatric journey. Find April @actively_april, find Jason @tha_smithsonian_, and find Natalie @breakingbari_ers