This can be a hard topic to talk about, but I do not think that it is discussed enough post-weight loss surgery. It’s called Body Dysmorphia. Maybe you’ve heard of it, or maybe you have or currently are experiencing it. Battling body dysmorphia after weight loss surgery can be a challenging and emotional journey. Body Dysmorphia “Disorder” can be a diagnosable mental health condition for some, but not everyone meets the standard criteria. In my opinion, it is still pretty misunderstood in the medical world.

Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) is a mental health condition characterized by a preoccupation with perceived flaws or defects in one’s physical appearance, which may not be noticeable to others. It’s so confusing to look in a mirror after losing 150lbs and feeling like you look exactly. the. same. as you did before weight loss surgery. So how do we cope with this?

1. Seek professional help: Consult with a mental health professional, such as a therapist or psychologist, who specializes in body image issues and, preferably, someone familiar with bariatric surgery. They can help you understand the roots of your body dysmorphia and provide therapeutic techniques to manage it.

2. Support groups: Join a support group or community of people who have undergone weight loss surgery or experienced body image concerns. Sharing your experiences with others who can relate can be incredibly beneficial. I can say that there is a very supportive Instagram community post-weight loss surgery.

3. Practice self-compassion: Be gentle with yourself and recognize that your feelings are valid. Self-compassion involves treating yourself with the same kindness and understanding that you would offer a friend.

4. Challenge negative thoughts: Try to identify and challenge the negative or distorted thoughts about your body. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can be particularly helpful in this regard.

5. Focus on non-appearance-related accomplishments: Shift your focus away from your appearance and emphasize your other achievements, such as your health improvements, increased physical fitness, and personal growth.

6. Set realistic goals: Avoid setting unrealistic body image goals. Instead, set attainable and health-focused goals that contribute to your overall well-being.

7. Develop a positive body image: Engage in activities that make you feel good about your body, such as exercising for health, rather than appearance, and practicing body-positive affirmations.

8. Limit exposure to triggers: Be mindful of the media and social media content you consume, as it can perpetuate unrealistic body standards. Unfollow accounts that make you feel bad about your body and surround yourself with positive influences.

9. Journaling: Keep a journal to document your thoughts and feelings about your body. This can help you identify patterns and triggers and provide insight into your progress. 10. Consult your surgeon: If you’re still concerned about specific aspects of your body after weight loss surgery, discuss your concerns with your surgeon. They can offer guidance and may be able to provide options for corrective procedures if necessary.

10. Consult your surgeon: If you’re still concerned about specific aspects of your body after weight loss surgery, discuss your concerns with your surgeon. They can offer guidance and may be able to provide options for corrective procedures if necessary.

For me, body dysmorphia has been an ongoing challenge. Add in some weight gain after having a baby and a really rough postpartum experience, and some days are just flat-out hard. I am realizing it takes time to overcome body dysmorphia, and progress can be slow. I am working on being patient with myself and have started therapy- one of the biggest things I would suggest you do too! Building a healthy body image is a process that may involve setbacks, but with the right resources and a supportive network, you can make positive strides toward accepting and appreciating your post-weight loss surgery body.

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