This book is for anyone contemplating or for those who have had the gastric bypass procedure for weight loss. It is intended to provide information about various psychological issues that are common throughout the process. It includes areas to explore both before and after surgery, as well as an overview of some true stories of those who have previously undergone this procedure.
Ranesa McNally is a licensed clinical social worker in private practice in Baltimore, Maryland. Ranesa performs psychosocial assessments for patients prior to gastric bypass surgery and provides individual counseling for individuals after the procedure. Ranesa works with several surgeons in the Baltimore area and assists with various support groups in the community. Ranesa is a post gastric bypass patient of over four years and author of the the article,"Supports Really Do Make a Difference."
You can expect all kinds of emotions before surgery, and definitely a whole new host of emotions after surgery. Most people describe their journey as a “roller coaster” of emotions, mostly positive, but often times confusing in relation to adjusting to their new bodies. You would expect to feel elated all the time, but for most people, to lose some weight is not enough. It’s the search for more. More weight loss, more acceptance, more activities, a better body image, off the charts self esteem, etc. However, sometimes it is not that simple. It takes internal work to feel self worth, it’s more than what you look like on the outside. Although we have worked hard to lose the weight, it may never be enough for acceptance by some people. It’s important that we learn to accept ourselves, not basing how we see ourselves on others perceptions. Sometimes it takes losing the weight to begin to look at other areas we need to improve. This is perfectly normal, as long as you are aware of the work that lies ahead.