Post-Bariatric Surgery Payoffs: Your New Wardrobe

It’s no coincidence that so many stories about dramatic weight loss are accompanied by photographs of someone holding up a pair of pants or a dress that now appears way too large. Clothing can be a great way to measure your progress as you drop pounds. That first trip to the mall for a smaller size can be one of the greatest payoffs for bariatric surgery patients.

It can also be a little intimidating. Finding things to wear when your size is in the triple digits or preceded by several Xs can be frustrating, time-consuming, and costly. If you’ve struggled with your weight for some time, you may have avoided clothing stores and mirrors. You may also not feel ready for a whole new wardrobe yet. Those are perfectly normal reactions. Keep in mind that you will lose weight in several stages, which means you will likely go through several sizes of clothing. Try to view each new size as a victory and reward yourself with an outfit that makes you look and feel your best.

It’s a good idea to hit the dressing room with several different sizes, since you may not be sure which one will fit most appropriately. If you feel comfortable asking a sales associate for advice, they can often recommend pieces that will flatter your new shape, rather than hide it under baggy layers. Or, bring along a friend of family member for the same purpose—they may be thrilled to help celebrate this milestone with you!

Above all, make the point of any shopping trip to enjoy your new, slimmer body. Even if you haven’t yet reached the weight you are hoping to, know that every new size down is another step in the right direction.

Learn more about the Penn Metabolic & Bariatric program and sign up for a free weight-loss surgery information session today.