Expectations for Weight Loss

Expectations For Weight Loss

Managing expectations before any medical weight loss program is one of the most important responsibilities we have. Expectations, of course, can vary from person to person and even when it comes to published research. Weight loss numbers are ultimately just a sample average and not a guarantee. Proper expectations are important because so much of the success of our program relies on your willingness and ability to change your lifestyle both now and in the future. This includes a complete diet and exercise overhaul that has to be maintained indefinitely.

Expectations are not just limited to weight loss numbers. How long will it take to lose the weight? Will the post-program diet and exercise routine be hard? How will you feel psychologically as you lose weight? All of these factors need to be managed so that realistic expectations can be set before embarking on our program.

What about negative or overly positive expectations? I can’t do it. It’s too hard. I’ll never lose enough weight – Or – This is going to be easy and the program is all I need. I’ll be able to lose all my excess weight fast. Negative expectations can not only keep someone from trying medical weight loss but may also fuel the generally negative attitude that may be a part of their obesity problem. Overly positive attitudes are similarly harmful because they will invariably end in disappointment. A thorough introduction to the program and discussion with our staff can help manage these thoughts.

To offer a rough idea of the results of our program, we aim to help our patients eliminate between 20-35% of their excess body weight. For patients coming to us after bariatric surgery, we look to help them lose an additional 5-15% of their excess body weight on top of the weight loss offered by the surgery alone. Some patients will lose much more while others will lose less. The bottom line is that we not only want you to lose weight but we want you to change your life for the long term.

While no one can predict exactly how much weight can be lost, our medical weight loss program does offer a step in the right direction, using behavior modification as well as diet to shed the pounds and improve obesity-related diseases.
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