Stay Strong After Bariatric Surgery: Top Support Groups
Bariatric surgery is a life-changing decision, and for many people, the journey doesn’t end in the operating room. Long-term success depends on lifestyle changes, mental resilience, and ongoing support. Whether you traveled abroad for your procedure or are planning a medical tourism experience, connecting with the right support group can make all the difference.
In this guide, we’ll highlight the best weight loss and bariatric support groups, including international, online, and local communities that help patients stay motivated, informed, and accountable after bariatric surgery.
Why Join a Bariatric Support Group?
After bariatric surgery—such as gastric sleeve, gastric bypass, or duodenal switch—patients face changes in diet, body image, and mental health. Support groups help in key areas:
- Emotional support and encouragement
- Shared experiences and tips from fellow survivors
- Nutrition guidance and meal planning
- Long-term accountability
- Access to professionals (dietitians, therapists)
Support groups also reduce feelings of isolation—a common challenge for people adjusting to life after surgery.
Top International Bariatric Support Communities
These groups are ideal for travelers, global patients, and international medical tourism patients who want round-the-clock access and multicultural voices.
1. ObesityHelp® Bariatric Support
One of the largest online communities for bariatric patients worldwide. With forums for every type of surgery and topic—from emotional eating to surgical recovery—ObesityHelp® is a go-to for global support.
- Active discussion forums
- Resource library for surgeries, nutrition, and exercise
- Local meet-up groups in many countries
📌 Great for: Travel patients seeking international connections
2. Bariatric Advantage Community
A focused support network centered around the Bariatric Advantage brand, this group mixes patient experiences with expert insights from nutritionists and health professionals.
- Facebook group with thousands of members
- Regular expert Q&A sessions
- Helpful product and supplement guidance
📌 Great for: Patients seeking structured nutritional support
3. MyFitnessPal (Bariatric Forums)
Though not a bariatric-specific site, MyFitnessPal’s active bariatric sub-groups offer a combination of calorie tracking with peer support.
- Online threads divided by surgery type
- Food logs and nutrition tracking
- Motivational threads and success stories
📌 Great for: Weight monitoring and daily habit building
Best U.S.-Based Support Groups (also useful for Medical Tourists)
If you’ve traveled to the United States for surgery—or plan future visits—these local groups provide face-to-face support and structured programming.
Bariatric Support Groups at Local Hospitals & Clinics
Many bariatric centers in the U.S. host monthly or weekly support groups. These sessions are typically facilitated by nurses or dietitians and include:
- Post-op check-ins
- Nutrition advice
- Peer sharing
📍 Examples include:
- Cleveland Clinic Bariatric Support
- Mayo Clinic Bariatric Support Groups
- Kaiser Permanente Weight Loss Support
(Pro tip: Ask your bariatric surgeon or clinic coordinator for an up-to-date list of support meetings.)
Online & Virtual Support Groups
The digital era makes it easier than ever to connect across borders. These options are excellent for international patients:
Facebook Groups
- Bariatric Surgery Support Group
- Bariatric Weight Loss Success Stories
- Gastric Sleeve & Bypass Support
💡 Facebook groups are searchable and often moderated for safety and respect.
Reddit Communities
- r/BariatricSurgery
- r/loseit
These forums are candid, active, and valuable for real-world tactics (meal plans, supplements, coping strategies).
Specialty & Niche Support Groups
Different patients have different needs. These niche communities offer personalized focus:
📌 Bariatric Mental Health Support
For patients dealing with emotional challenges post-surgery, groups like Bariatric Support, Inc. offer counseling referrals and mental health resources.
📌 Exercise & Fitness Support
Communities focused on post-bariatric fitness help patients with workouts tailored to rapid weight loss phases.
📌 Travel & Recovery Support
For medical tourists, some platforms connect patients who’ve had surgery abroad for check-ins, travel tips, and local meet-ups.
How to Choose the Best Support Group
When exploring options, consider:
✅ Accessibility — Is it online or in-person? International or local?
✅ Group Size — Larger groups mean more activity; smaller groups offer closer bonds.
✅ Moderation — Health-focused moderation ensures medical accuracy and respect.
✅ Expert Involvement — Groups with dietitians or clinicians add credibility.
Tip: Start with one large online group and one local/in-person group to balance community and accountability.
Support Is a Key Part of Your Bariatric Journey
Post-surgery success isn’t just about the procedure—it’s about the ongoing journey. Whether you’re a local patient or a medical tourist, joining the right weight loss and bariatric support group can:
✨ Strengthen your commitment
✨ Provide emotional and practical help
✨ Connect you with a community that understands
Success is more than losing weight—it’s gaining support.
Interested in Bariatric Revision Surgery?
If you’re considering bariatric revision surgery due to complications, weight regain, or unsatisfactory results from a previous surgery, Dr. Alejandro López is a triple board certified bariatric surgeon in Tijuana, México, who offers comprehensive revision options. Explore expert-led care, affordable packages, and support tailored to your needs. Learn more by calling (619)653-6739