“It’s been a year and a half since my bariatric surgery, and I’ve stopped losing weight. Is
this it… or can I get back on track?”
If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Many patients hit a weight loss plateau around the 12–
18 month mark. But here’s the good news:
Yes—you can restart your weight loss journey.
Let’s explore how.
Why Weight Loss Slows Down After Surgery
Whether you had a gastric sleeve or gastric bypass, your surgery gave you a powerful tool—but
like any tool, its effectiveness depends on how you use it.
In the first 6–12 months after surgery, weight often drops quickly due to:
- A reduced stomach size
- Hormonal changes
- Strict post-op eating patterns
But over time, as your body adapts and your habits shift, progress can slow—and that’s normal.
Are You Still Using Your Tool?
Your surgery didn’t stop working.
What often changes is how we eat, what we eat, and how mindful we are of our habits.
Ever notice how certain foods—like chips, crackers, or ice cream—go down easily? These are
called “slider foods.”They pass through your pouch quickly without making you feel full,
leading to overeating and weight regain.
On the other hand, lean proteins, fibrous veggies, and dense foods keep you satisfied longer
and activate your tool the way it was designed.
How to Restart Weight Loss After 18 Months
If you’re ready to get back on track, here’s how:
Leverage Your Tool Again
- Focus on protein-first meals
- Choose solid, high-satiety foods
- Avoid liquid calories and sliders
2. Rebuild Healthy Habits
- Track your meals using an app or journal
- Eat mindfully—slow down, chew thoroughly, and listen to your new fullness signals
- Avoid grazing throughout the day
3. Move Your Body Consistently
- Aim for a mix of strength training and cardio
- Start small, but stay consistent
4. Set Realistic Expectations
You may not lose weight as quickly as you did in the early months—but steady, sustainable
progress is possible.
Final Thoughts
Weight loss after bariatric surgery isn’t a straight line—and plateaus don’t mean failure.
They’re a checkpoint, not the end of the road.
With the right strategy, mindset, and consistency, you can absolutely continue losing weight—
even years after surgery.
Have you hit a weight loss plateau?
What strategies are working for you—or what feels like your biggest obstacle?
Let’s talk in the comments below and support each other on this journey.