3 years post op gastric bypass with gain

Question
Hi Dr. Pilcher,
 I am approaching my 3 year anniversary on December 4.  I lost 120lbs.  In the past year I have gradually regained 20 lbs.  I exercise, and try to monitor what I eat.  I recently joined weight watchers, but have a hard time eating all my points.  Is weight watchers safe for me to lose the 20? I do try to make sure I am getting protein in.  I relocated from Wisconsin to Florida 8 months after surgery.  There are not support groups within 75 mile radius near me.  I feel. Like a failure.. Helen

Answer
Helen,
I think it is great that you are reaching out for help.  Those of us who work in this field are reaching an ever-better understanding that obesity is a lifetime disease; surgery helps control the disease but surgery is NOT a cure.  Therefore, it is expected and appropriate for patients to need continued coaching and support to assist in the management of the obesity disease.

Unfortunately, it is not practical for me or anyone to provide the coaching and management that you need via the internet.  You need to see a bariatric specialist (medical doc or surgeon) in person and become engaged in their program.  In order to find a specialist of this type, I recommend that you first ask your primary doctor for recommendations.  As a second bet, check the internet for "bariatrician" or "bariatric surgery."

I wish you the best of luck,
Dr JP

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