Weight loss surgery is often seen as a “before and after” story. But what happens after the surgery? What does real life look like months — and even years — later?
In this powerful episode, Jacqui and Kate share their lived experiences with bariatric surgery, opening up about identity shifts, emotional healing, food relationships, and the reality of long-term maintenance
This isn’t just a story about weight loss — it’s about rebuilding confidence, reclaiming health, and redefining what success truly means.
The Real Goal of Weight Loss Surgery
One of the key themes in the episode is that surgery is a tool — not a magic fix
The real goal?
Improved health markers (blood pressure, diabetes risk, mobility)
Better quality of life
Increased energy and confidence
Sustainable habits
Emotional growth and self-awareness
Research shows that bariatric surgery can lead to:
50–70% excess weight loss on average
Significant improvement or remission in type 2 diabetes
Reduced risk of heart disease
Improved sleep apnea symptoms
Increased life expectancy in patients with severe obesity
But as Jacqui and Kate discuss, long-term success requires mindset work, structure, and community
The Emotional Side of the Journey
Weight loss surgery doesn’t just change your body — it changes your identity.
In the episode, Jacqui shares how the journey involves:
Learning new coping mechanisms
Managing emotional eating triggers
Navigating other people’s reactions
Adjusting to rapid body changes
Many patients report “head hunger” even when physical hunger is reduced. This highlights an important fact:
Surgery changes your stomach size — not your brain.
That’s why emotional support, therapy, and peer groups are often critical for long-term success.
What People Don’t Talk About (But Should)
This episode also addresses topics often left out of social media transformation posts:
Loose skin
Plateaus
Nutritional deficiencies
Transfer addiction risks
The pressure to maintain results
Honest conversations like this help reduce stigma and create realistic expectations.
Practical Things You Can Do After Surgery
If you’re pre-op or post-op, here are actionable steps inspired by the episode:
1. Build a Support Network
Surround yourself with people who understand the journey. Community is everything
2. Prioritize Protein & Hydration
Most bariatric guidelines recommend 60–90g of protein daily (varies by individual plan).
3. Follow Up With Your Medical Team
Regular bloodwork helps monitor vitamin B12, iron, calcium, and vitamin D levels.
4. Address the Mental Health Component
Consider therapy or coaching to work through emotional eating patterns.
5. Celebrate Non-Scale Victories
Mobility improvements, energy levels, clothing sizes, and confidence shifts matter just as much.
6. Stay Structured
Routine meals, mindful eating, and consistent habits support long-term success.
Why This Episode Matters
Jacqui and Kate remind us that weight loss surgery isn’t about perfection — it’s about progress
Their transparency helps:
Break stigma
Set realistic expectations
Encourage accountability
Inspire sustainable change
The takeaway?
This journey is not about becoming someone else.
It’s about becoming the healthiest version of yourself — physically, mentally, and emotionally.
🎧 Ready to Go Deeper?
If you’re considering weight loss surgery, navigating life after bariatric surgery, or supporting patients on this journey — this episode is a must-listen.
👉 Listen to the full episode here:
[INSERT EPISODE LINK HERE]
You’ll walk away with practical insights, honest reflections, and the reassurance that long-term success isn’t about perfection — it’s about support, structure, and sustainable habits.
🍌 Connect with Kate Fuss
If you’re looking for personalized bariatric support, education, or professional collaboration, connect with Kate Fuss:
🌐 Website: https://bananabariatrics.com
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/banana.bariatrics
👥 Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/bariatricweightlosssurgery
👩⚕️ For Providers: https://bananabariatrics.com/private-practice/
Whether you’re a patient or healthcare professional, Kate offers practical, real-world guidance that bridges the gap between surgery and sustainable success.
