The process following bariatric surgery is a multifaceted change that involves not only physical but also psychological and social dimensions. Today, one of the most visible areas of this process is social media. Platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and Facebook have become digital spaces where individuals who have undergone gastric sleeve surgery share their experiences, seek motivation, and sometimes feel pressure.
Bariatric Journeys on Social Media
Individuals who have undergone bariatric surgery often choose to share their weight loss journeys on social media. These posts include liquid diet examples, new recipes, daily water consumption goals, foods that are good for reflux, or “forbidden food lists.”
This process serves as a kind of digital diary for individuals, while also serving as a source of inspiration for followers. However, the social media environment often creates filtered, edited, and unrealistic expectations. Since real recovery processes involve many challenges, such as psychological fluctuations, showing only the positive aspects of this journey can be demoralizing for those left behind.
The Psychological Effects of Visual Sharing
Visuals on social media that focus on “perfect results” can be motivating for some individuals, but can create feelings of inadequacy in others. In particular, people who are unable to lose weight quickly in the first three months or who are unable to drink enough water after gastric bypass surgery may experience disappointment when comparing themselves to the successes of others.
A study (Lup et al., 2015) showed that individuals exposed to body-related content on Instagram experienced greater body dissatisfaction. It should be noted that individuals may be more sensitive to such content after a radical lifestyle change such as bariatric surgery.
Comparing Yourself to Others: Helpful or Harmful?
Interacting with people going through a similar process on social media can create a sense of solidarity through shared experiences. However, these comparisons can be harmful for some users.
After bariatric surgery, everyone’s recovery speed, metabolic structure, hormonal balance, and emotional adaptation are different. What one person loses in weight in 3 months may take another person 6 months. When these differences are labeled as “successful” or “unsuccessful” on social media, individuals’ self-confidence can be damaged.
The bariatric surgery diet should be planned individually; recipes or menus shared on social media should not be followed exactly, but should be adjusted under the supervision of a specialist.
“Before & After” Posts
“Before & After” posts are among the most engaging content on social media. These types of images show users the tangible results of transformation. However, it is important to note that this content is based solely on a person’s appearance, not their health.
Post-gastric bypass surgery nutrition, exercise plans, and psychological support are much more important criteria for sustainable weight loss. A perception of success based solely on visuals can narrow the awareness of both the individual and the viewer.
Social Media and Body Image
People who have undergone bariatric surgery may find it difficult to make sense of the rapid changes in their bodies. Sometimes, their old body image persists despite weight loss. This condition is called “body dysmorphia” and requires professional psychological support.
Social media can positively or negatively influence a person’s body image during this period. Constantly navigating platforms that emphasize aesthetic and ideal body types can lead individuals to devalue their own process.
Accounts that present positive examples, respect different body types, and realistically reflect the process should be followed.
Is Digital Detox Necessary?
In the first few months after bariatric surgery, it is important for individuals to focus their energy on the recovery process and new lifestyle habits. During this process, excessive social media use can cause distraction, emotional ups and downs, and feelings of comparison.
Occasional digital detoxes can help individuals focus on their bodies and the recovery process. Individuals who are mentally exhausted from content such as “reels” and “before-and-after” posts can achieve a healthier mental balance by limiting the amount of time they spend on social media.
Conclusion: A Balanced Approach Is Possible
Social media is a powerful tool for sharing nutrition, exercise, and lifestyle changes after bariatric surgery. However, this power comes with risks as well as positive effects. Platforms used for motivation and information gathering can become harmful through false comparisons, feelings of inadequacy, and unrealistic expectations.
It is important that sources of information on topics such as how much water to drink after gastric sleeve surgery, which foods are prohibited, or liquid diet recipes are expert and reliable. Areas such as Bariatric Kitchen are valuable in providing individuals with accurate and scientific information by filtering social media content.
