Preparing for Weight Loss Surgery
After meeting with a surgeon and as part of the weight loss surgery process, new patients must meet with a bariatric surgery dietitian by attending one of our Initial Dietitian Groups. In addition, we offer a cooking class and support groups.
Initial Dietitian Groups
New patients are required to sign up for a group led by one of our experienced bariatric dietitians. Information about joining one of these virtual Initial Dietitian Groups will be provided to patients in the enrollment folder following their first visit. Please call 617.414.8052 if you have any questions.
Pre-surgery Cooking Class
Before surgery, patients can attend a cooking class to learn how to prepare simple, healthy, and affordable recipes that will help your stomach heal properly post-surgery, help you lose the right amount of weight, and prevent nutritional deficiencies after your surgery. This class, offered by BMC’s Teaching Kitchen, is held virtually.
Support Group Sessions
Talking with other patients who have had weight loss surgery is a very important part of your care as you undergo a major life change. Boston Medical Center offers support groups for pre- and post-operative weight loss surgery patients.
Sessions are held in English and must be scheduled in advance. Please call 617.414.8052 or send a message via MyChart to schedule.
Emotional Eating Support Group
First Thursday of each month, 5:30-6:30 pm
If you find yourself reaching for food when you are feeling down or upset, you are not alone. The Emotional Eating Support Group is led by Kelly Fournier, LICSW, a specialist in the treatment and prevention of eating disorders. Please note that this group, which will take place via telemedicine, is open only to Boston Medical Center patients preparing for weight loss surgery and those who have already had surgery.
Weight Loss Surgery Support Group
Third Thursday of each month, 5:30-6:30 pm
The Weight Loss Surgery Support Group is led by senior bariatric surgery dietitian Wendy Anderson, MS, RDN, LDN. This group is designed to help guide and support you prior to and after your weight loss surgery. You'll have the opportunity to learn from other patients and share your own weight loss experiences. Please note that this group meeting will take place via telemedicine and is only open to patients enrolled in Boston Medical Center’s Weight-Loss Surgery Program.