Bariatric Surgery: It’s About More Than Just Getting Skinny

What You Think Before Surgery (And Why It's Totally Normal)

We get it—before surgery, the goal feels like it’s just about getting skinny. That dream of finally fitting into those jeans, or not feeling like the biggest person in the room, is real. And let’s be honest: It can feel overwhelming when all you’ve ever wanted is to just be smaller. If you’re anything like us, that thought consumed you.

It’s so normal to think, "If I could just get thin, everything will be perfect." And hey, for some people, that does happen—and that’s okay too. But what no one tells you is that the real magic lies in the unexpected victories along the way.

The Role Diet Culture Plays in Messing with Our Heads

Diet culture really did a number on us, didn’t it? It makes it feel like “skinny” is the only way to be successful. But the thing is—skinny isn’t the end-all-be-all. It’s just one piece of the puzzle (and honestly, not even the most important one).

We’re here to tell you that if you don’t hit that magic number on the scale or fit into that dream size, you didn’t fail. Seriously, it’s not about the number—it’s about so much more than that. And if you’re carrying the pressure of needing to be a certain size, trust us: You are not alone.

Look, there’s nothing wrong with having weight-loss goals. But here’s the truth—we don’t want you to feel crushed if you don’t hit that number or size you thought you would. This journey is about becoming healthier, stronger, and more confident—not chasing perfection.

Feeling like you failed just because you didn’t shrink to the size you imagined? We’ve been there too. But trust us, that mindset can derail you real fast. Instead, focus on what your body can do now—because those wins matter more than you think.

The Real Wins After Surgery (Spoiler: It’s Not the Scale)

Let’s talk about the stuff that actually matters—the moments that make this journey worth it.

  • That time you jumped on a rollercoaster without worrying if the harness would fit.

  • Not needing meds you thought you’d be on forever.

  • Getting off the floor without struggling or holding onto something for dear life.

Those wins? They’re what this is really about. Those are the moments that make us feel alive.

And honestly, when you think about it, being skinny isn’t even what crosses your mind in those moments. It’s about how strong, capable, and free you feel—and that’s priceless.

We’ve learned the hard way that it’s not about racing toward some perfect version of ourselves. It’s about loving where you are now and celebrating the little victories along the way. Keeping things sustainable isn’t easy—especially when old habits or negative thoughts sneak back in. But when the focus shifts from “How small can I get?” to “How good do I feel?”—that’s when the real magic happens.

This journey will have ups and downs, but remember this: You’ve already done the hard part by starting. And every step forward, no matter how small, is a win. So keep going—at your own pace, for your own reasons.

We’ve been exactly where you are—feeling all the feelings, dreaming of that perfect number, and worrying if we’d ever get there. But let us tell you: The real success is in how you live after surgery, not in the size you wear.

So, if no one’s told you this yet—you’re doing great. Keep chasing the things that make you feel alive, and never forget: You are more than enough, just as you are.

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Combating Feelings of Failure in Your Weight Loss Surgery Journey