Our Sleeved Life Podcast

Epi 348 Scared of plastic surgery pain? You’re not alone. For many people considering a tummy tuck, body lift, or post-weight-loss skin removal, fear of pain is the #1 thing holding them back. In this episode, a board-certified plastic surgeon and licensed bariatric therapist explain what recovery really feels like — including drains, swelling, muscle repair, Exparel, narcotics, and realistic pain expectations. We cover:• How bad is plastic surgery pain really?• What drain removal feels like• How pain is managed safely• Why most patients never hit 10/10 pain• When discomfort is normal — and when it’s not If you’re researching tummy tuck recovery, body contouring after weight loss, or wondering if surgery pain is worth it — listen to this first. 💬 Need support or have questions? Message us anytime: @thecuttingedgepod_@melunfiltered.vsg@drbodycontouring@ashlynchange4life2012 We’re here for you. 💛 #PlasticSurgeryRecovery #TummyTuckPain #BodyContouring #BariatricLife #SurgeryRecovery Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Epi 347Gastric sleeve surgery can change your life — but no one talks about the dark side.In this raw and powerful episode of Our Sleeved Life Podcast, we uncover the truth about gastric sleeve surgery (VSG / vertical sleeve gastrectomy) that many bariatric patients experience but rarely discuss.From extreme weight loss to emotional eating, trauma stored in the body, eating disorder risks, loose skin, body dysmorphia, mental health struggles, and rebuilding strength after surgery — this is the side of bariatric surgery that deserves attentionIf you’re considering bariatric surgery, preparing for VSG surgery, or navigating life after gastric sleeve, this episode will give you the real, unfiltered truth.🎙 In This Episode We Discuss:What doctors don’t always explain about gastric sleeve surgeryThe mental health impact after bariatric surgeryEating disorder behaviors after rapid weight lossEmotional eating and food funeralsLoose skin after massive weight lossSkin removal surgery after bariatric surgeryInBody scans vs DEXA scansStrength training and muscle building after gastric sleeveRebuilding confidence after extreme transformationThis is not just a “before and after” story.It’s a conversation about what happens after the scale moves.Like this videoSubscribe for honest bariatric conversationsShare this with someone considering weight loss surgeryComment belowWhat has been the hardest part of your gastric sleeve journey? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Epi 13Can you die from plastic surgery? In this episode of Our Sleeved Life Podcast, we break down the real death risk of plastic surgery, including tummy tuck, liposuction, and anesthesia complications. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Omar E. Beidas, MD, FACS and therapist Ashlyn Douglass-Barnes explain: ✔️ The actual plastic surgery mortality rate✔️ Can anesthesia kill you?✔️ Blood clots (DVT) after tummy tuck✔️ What really causes surgical deaths✔️ Bariatric vs cosmetic surgery risk✔️ How to reduce complications before elective surgery If you’re researching plastic surgery safety, elective surgery death rate, tummy tuck blood clot risk, or anesthesia risks explained, this episode gives you clear, factual answers. We also address the fear of dying during surgery—especially for moms and post-weight loss patients—and how modern surgical protocols make cosmetic surgery extremely low risk for healthy candidates. Our Sleeved Life Podcast explores bariatric surgery, plastic surgery after weight loss, mental health, and surgical safety through honest conversations and expert insight. We discuss tummy tucks, liposuction, body contouring, anesthesia risks, and life after weight loss surgery. If you're researching elective surgery safety or navigating transformation yourself, this podcast provides balanced, educational guidance. This show is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Epi 12Welcome back to The Cutting Edge Podcast with host Mel featuring Dr. Omar E. Beidas, MD, FACS (plastic surgeon) and Ashlyn Douglass Barnes, LCSW (therapist and post weight loss patient). In this episode of our Fear Series, we tackle one of the biggest hurdles before body contouring and plastic surgery after major weight loss: the fear of the unknown and the fear of regret.You’ll hear what regret actually looks like in real life (hint: it’s far less common than the fear of it), how unrealistic expectations can fuel anxiety, why “post op blues” can happen even when everything is going well, and what you can do before surgery to feel grounded, prepared, and confident. We also talk about how people treat you differently in a smaller body, how confidence can impact relationships, and why choosing the right procedure (and the right provider) matters if you want results you won’t second guess.If you’re researching tummy tuck, skin removal surgery, body contouring after weight loss, 360 lipo, breast lift or breast augmentation, or you’re navigating the mental side of transformation, this one is for you.Watch nextIf you’re new here, start the Fear Series from the beginning and then work your way through the topics in order for the full picture.What you’ll learn in this episode• Why fear of regret is more common than actual regret• The top reasons people feel regret after plastic surgery (and how to avoid them)• How swelling, pain, recovery fatigue, and needing help can trigger “blues”• How to set realistic expectations for healing and final results• Why non invasive “skin tightening” options usually do not solve loose skin after major weight loss• How weight stability affects long term results• How body changes can shift attention, confidence, and relationships• How to choose the right procedure and avoid “internet validation” traps• What board certification and proper training really mean in aestheticsChapters0:18 Intro and Fear Series focus: fear of the unknown1:07 Fear of regret vs actual regret3:07 What plastic surgery means after major weight loss4:19 Post op blues, swelling, recovery expectations6:19 Surgery day realities and “the flip” discussion12:21 Picking the wrong procedure and online trends14:20 Beware unqualified aesthetic providers15:18 Loose skin facts after major weight loss18:04 Fear of social judgment and relationship changes21:46 How people treat you differently after weight loss27:47 Chasing perfection vs unrealistic expectations31:27 The viral “RGB implant” moment and internet misinformation35:26 Implant sizing and why many people wish they went bigger39:53 Weight stability, timing, and how surgeons “read” readiness44:49 Fear of regret and decision making stylesFeatured expertsDr. Omar E. Beidas, MD, FACSBoard Certified Plastic SurgeonFellowship trained in plastic surgery after massive weight lossInstagram: @drbodycontouringAshlyn Douglass Barnes, LCSWTherapist and plastic surgery patient after major weight lossInstagram: @ashlynchange4life2012Host: MelHost of Our Sleeved Life Podcast and Creator of Just Be You AwardsInstagram: @oursleevedlifepodcastWebsite: https://www.oursleevedlifepodcast.comDisclaimerThis episode is for education and support only and does not replace medical advice. Always consult your surgeon and healthcare team for personalized guidance. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Epi 11Let’s talk about the fear that no one wants to admit out loud — the fear of dying under anesthesia, waking up during surgery, or something going horribly wrong 😳In this unfiltered episode of the Our Sleeved Life Podcast, Ashlyn sits down with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Omar Beidas to talk about the truth behind anesthesia in plastic surgery — especially for patients undergoing tummy tucks, skin removal, BBLs, or body contouring after extreme weight loss.From stats to red flags to funny fears (yes, pooping is mentioned 💩), this conversation is real, informative, and totally judgment-free 💬💉 What You'll Learn in This Episode:✅ The actual risk of death from anesthesia (way lower than you think)✅ Why “waking up during surgery” is basically a Hollywood myth✅ What board-certified surgeons do to keep you safe✅ What your operating room team looks like (you’re never alone!)✅ How to advocate for yourself if you have fear, trauma, or anxiety✅ Red flags to look for in budget clinics or unlicensed facilities✅ The difference between a cosmetic surgeon and a plastic surgeon✅ How to pay for safe surgery: CareCredit, Cherry, and more✅ Ashlyn’s tips as a coach and surgery patient herself 💡🔍 If you’ve searched:“Is anesthesia safe during plastic surgery?”“Can you die under anesthesia?”“What to expect before surgery anesthesia”“Best plastic surgeons for weight loss patients”“CareCredit for surgery financing”You’ll get ALL the answers here 💯👩‍⚕️ About Our Hosts:Dr. Omar E. Beidas, MD, FACS💎 Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon✨ Fellowship-trained in plastic surgery after massive weight loss📍 Compassionate care, real results for bariatric patientsInstagram → @drbodycontouringAshlyn Douglass-Barnes, LCSW🧠 Licensed Clinical Social Worker💬 Bariatric + Plastic Surgery Patient — here to keep it real🌟 Coach, advocate, and safety-first educatorInstagram → @ashlynchange4life2012Mel🎙 Co-Host of Our Sleeved Life Podcast🏆 Creator of the Just Be You Awards💖 Champion for body positivity, healing, and patient supportFollow → @oursleevedlifepodcastWebsite → https://www.oursleevedlifepodcast.com💳 Mentioned in This Episode:CareCredit: https://www.carecredit.comCherry Financing: https://www.withcherry.comMore episodes & community → https://www.oursleevedlifepodcast.com💬 Let’s Talk:What’s YOUR biggest fear about surgery or anesthesia? Tell us below — we’re answering your questions and might share your comment in a future ep! 💌 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Epi 10Planning a surgery-cation? 👙✈️Before you book that flight to Mexico, Colombia, or the Dominican Republic for a tummy tuck, BBL, or skin removal surgery — STOP and watch this first. Seriously. 🛑In this juicy episode of the Our Sleeved Life Podcast, Ashlyn and Mel sit down with Dr. Omar Beidas, a board-certified plastic surgeon who specializes in post-weight loss body contouring — and they’re asking the real questions you NEED answered.From sketchy $3,000 surgeries to safety risks you’ve never even heard of, we break it ALL down. Whether you're chasing deals or just confused by all the options, this is your plastic surgery travel reality check. 💬💉 In this episode, we spill the tea on:✅ Is traveling abroad for plastic surgery actually safe?✅ Why super cheap BBLs and tummy tucks can be super dangerous 😳✅ What fat embolisms are — and why they’re life-threatening✅ The HUGE difference between “cosmetic” surgeons and board-certified plastic surgeons✅ Why some patients don’t even meet their surgeon until surgery day (yes, really 😱)✅ What to ask before traveling for surgery overseas ✈️✅ Safe ways to pay: CareCredit, Cherry, & more✅ Ashlyn’s honest take on navigating all the confusion as a post-op patient 💬🧠 If you’ve searched:"Is surgery in Mexico safe?""Cheap tummy tuck after weight loss""Plastic surgery abroad horror stories""How to afford skin removal surgery""Is BBL safe in the Dominican Republic?"This episode is your must-watch. 👀👩‍⚕️ About Our Host: Dr. Omar E. Beidas, MD, FACS💎 Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon✨ Fellowship-trained in plastic surgery after massive weight lossInstagram → @drbodycontouringAshlyn Douglass-Barnes, LCSW - Bariatric Patient and Plastic Surgery Patient after extreme weight-lossInstagram → @ashlynchange4life2012Mel -Hosts of Our Sleeved Life Podcast and Creator of Just Be You AwardsFollow us on IG → @oursleevedlifepodcast Website → https://www.oursleevedlifepodcast.com💳 Resources Mentioned: CareCredit → https://www.carecredit.comCherry Financing → https://www.withcherry.comMore Episodes → https://www.oursleevedlifepodcast.com💬 Join the Conversation: Would you travel for plastic surgery? Have a success or horror story?Drop it below ⬇️ — We are reading all your comments and might shout you out in a future ep! 💌 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Epi 345Welcome back to Our Sleeved Life Podcast! In this episode, host Mel sits down with Jaylin (MSN, RN), a resilience coach and nurse (and POP expert) to talk about the real reason New Year motivation fades and how to keep showing up for yourself long after the “new year, new me” energy is gone.If you’ve been feeling burnt out, stuck in all or nothing thinking, overwhelmed by ADHD productivity spirals, or frustrated because the scale isn’t moving, this conversation is for you. Jaylin breaks down how to reframe burnout, build small habits that actually stick, lower stress and cortisol, and track progress using non scale victories so you don’t quit when results feel slow.We also get into practical tools you can start today like journaling, habit stacking, creating a “top 3” priority list, scheduling your doom scroll, and building a support system so you don’t try to do your health journey alone.In this episode, we cover• Why motivation fades in January and how to stop the drop off• Burnout signs vs failure mindset and how to reframe it• “Consistently beats intensity” habit building for real life• How to handle ADHD overwhelm and stop task hopping• How stress and high cortisol can impact weight, sleep, skin, and hormones• How to lower cortisol through hydration, movement, sleep, sunlight, breathwork, and boundaries• Why the scale lies and how to track non scale wins that prove progress• How to stay on budget with food and build high protein meals without guessing• Why support and community matter for long term successWork with POPIf you’re traveling for surgery or you want more support before and after a procedure, POP focuses on holistic recovery support including mental health, nutrition, and recovery planning.Connect with us🎙️ Our Sleeved Life PodcastWebsite: https://www.oursleevedlifepodcast.comInstagram: @oursleevedlifepodcastDisclaimer: This episode is for education and support only and is not medical advice. Always consult your medical team for personal guidance. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Epi 9Struggling with loose skin or body changes after major weight loss? 💪 Wondering how to pay for plastic surgery like tummy tucks, arm lifts, or skin removal? In this episode, we break down real costs, insurance coverage options, and financing tools like CareCredit, Cherry, and payment plans.✅ Learn what insurance might cover (like panniculectomy or breast reduction)✅ Understand what’s usually not covered — and how to prepare✅ Discover how to apply for financing without wrecking your budget✅ Hear expert tips from a board-certified plastic surgeon✅ Get advice on saving, loans, credit, and smart planningIf you’ve had weight loss surgery, use GLP-1 meds, or lost weight naturally — this is your guide to navigating post-weight loss plastic surgery without going broke 💳🔗 Mentioned in This Video:CareCredit → https://www.carecredit.comCherry Financing → https://www.withcherry.comDr. Omar Beidas → https://www.drbeidas.com🎙️ Follow @oursleevedlifepodcast for real talk on life after weight loss surgery. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Epi 344What if the real transformation after weight loss surgery isn’t physical — but mental? In this deeply honest and empowering episode of Our Sleeved Life Podcast, therapist and bariatric patient Kristen French reveals the emotional side of WLS no one talks about — and how to retrain your brain after surgery.If you’ve ever struggled with emotional eating, self-sabotage, or feeling disconnected from your post-op body — this episode is for you.🎙️ Kristen shares science-backed tools on:Therapy after weight loss surgeryHow to use neuroplasticity for mindset changeManaging emotional eating & food triggersIdentity shifts after bariatric surgeryWhy “just eat less” doesn’t heal your traumaHow to build lasting self-trust and food peace 📚 Whether you’ve had gastric sleeve, bypass, or revision surgery — this interview offers real psychological tools, emotional validation, and a clear path forward.👉 Subscribe for more expert insights on bariatric success, mindset transformation, and WLS life coaching.🧠 Ready to work with Kristen? Click here🎧 Full podcast available on Spotify & Apple Podcasts Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Epi 8In this powerful episode of The Cutting Edge Podcast, Mel and Ashlyn Douglass-Barnes (LCSW & bariatric + skin removal patient) sit down with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Omar E. Beidas to talk about the things no one prepares you for after massive weight loss and plastic surgery. 💬We dive deep into:✅ What real support looks like after plastic surgery✅ Mental health, compression, lymphatic care & mindset✅ Building a care team: therapist, PCP, CNA, plastic surgeon✅ What to do when your partner or workplace isn’t supportive✅ Lymphedema vs. Lipedema, and how to manage them✅ How to emotionally and physically thrive during recoveryThis episode is raw, real, and full of the truth about what happens after the transformation. Whether you're prepping for skin removal surgery, just had bariatric surgery, or feel alone in your journey — this one’s for you. 💛📲 Follow Us & Our Guest🎙️ Podcast IG: @oursleevedlifepodcast💛 Ashlyn: @ashlynchange4life2012👨‍⚕️ Dr. Beidas: @drbodycontouring💬 Comment Below: What was your biggest challenge after surgery? Let's talk about it 👇📢 Don’t forget to subscribe for more real conversations on body image, healing, and living life after weight loss! #SkinRemovalSurgery #PlasticSurgeryRecovery #BariatricSupport #OurSleevedLife #PostOpSupport #MentalHealthHealing #WLSJourney Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Epi 344If you're post-op and still grinding on the treadmill… stop right there! 👟In this powerful episode of Our Sleeved Life Podcast, Mel welcomes back Kayla Girgen, RD, CPT, a leading bariatric dietitian and certified personal trainer, to reveal a low-impact, high-results fitness strategy: Rucking.Whether you're on GLP-1 medications, dealing with post-op fatigue, or looking to rebuild muscle and bone density, this episode delivers practical advice, honest insight, and motivation to thrive after weight loss surgery.💥 What You’ll Discover:Why rucking is better than cardio for many bariatric patientsHow to build bone strength, mental clarity & stamina post-opWhat dietitians really want you to know about fiber, protein, and blood sugarKayla’s perspective on GLP-1 meds, intentional eating, and long-term healthSneak peek of Kayla’s new book “RuckFit”🎯 Whether you're 3 months or 3 years post-op, this episode is your next step to real results.📚 Kayla’s Book “RuckFit” is now available🔗 Buy it on Amazon📸 Follow Kayla on Instagram👉 @kaylagirgenrd💬 Tell us in the comments:Have you tried rucking yet? What’s YOUR go-to post-op fitness hack?📲 Follow us @oursleevedlifepodcast🎧 Listen on Spotify & Apple Podcasts#BariatricSurgery #Rucking #KaylaGirgen #WeightLossJourney #GLP1 #RuckFit #BariatricFitness #BariatricDietitian #FiberMatters #PostOpSupport #OurSleevedLife Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Epi 7 What does plastic surgery really feel like after the operating room lights go off?In this deeply personal and medically-informed episode of The Cutting Edge Podcast, we talk openly about the pain, fear, medications, and misconceptions surrounding recovery after procedures like tummy tucks, liposuction, muscle repair, and 360 body lifts. Our host Mel, 10 years post-bariatric surgery, knows that the journey doesn't end with weight loss. For many patients, plastic surgery is the next chapter, and with it comes a new kind of pain—both physical and emotional. She's joined by co-host Ashlyn Douglass-Barnes, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and multi-round plastic surgery patient, who brings both professional and lived experience to this candid conversation. Together with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Omar E. Beidas, we go beyond the usual “pain scale” talk. We explore how ERAS (Enhanced Recovery After Surgery) protocols are shifting how pain is managed, why opioids aren't always the answer, and what realistic expectations look like—especially for bariatric patients who may face higher risk with certain meds. This episode is a rare blend of medical expertise, psychological insight, and real-world experience. Whether you're planning your first cosmetic surgery or supporting someone through recovery, you’ll walk away with a deeper understanding of: Why some patients describe the pain as “brutal” or “burning” even weeks after surgery How medications like Gabapentin, Valium, and Tylenol are used strategically What it means to overestimate your pain tolerance The emotional pressure to recover quickly or "tough it out" How trauma, weight history, and shame can impact healing We don’t sugarcoat anything—and that’s the point. Because your recovery should be based on facts, not filters. 🎙️ Guest InfoDr. Omar E. Beidas – Board-certified plastic surgeon, known for his expertise in post-bariatric body contouringAshlyn Douglass-Barnes, LCSW – Therapist, advocate, and multiple-procedure patient sharing raw insights 🎧 HostMel – Plastic surgery patient, educator, and truth-teller for the community 🛏️ Plastic surgery pain is real. Managing it safely matters.This episode is part of a bigger mission: helping weight loss and plastic surgery patients recover safely, feel empowered, and make informed decisions. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Epi 341 In this episode of the Our Sleeved Life Podcast, Mel sits down with Rebecca Robbins to explore the powerful connection between ADHD, dopamine, food, and weight struggles. Rebecca shares her journey through diet culture, grief, weight loss surgery, insulin resistance, and finally finding answers that helped her understand her body instead of fighting it. This conversation breaks down how ADHD affects eating behaviors, emotional regulation, executive function, and why willpower has never been the problem. Mel and Rebecca also discuss post surgery stalls, GLP-1 medications, rejection sensitivity dysphoria, and practical ADHD friendly strategies that support long term health. If you’ve struggled with weight loss, regain, emotional eating, or feel like your brain works differently, this episode will help you feel seen, validated, and informed. You can find the Our Sleeved Life Podcast on all major podcast platforms and on YouTube. For bonus content, exclusive episodes, community support, and deeper conversations, you can become a Patron at patreon.com/oslp. Resources and helpful links mentioned in this episode are included below. Adult ADHD assessment:https://add.org/adhd-test/ My email:rebeccarobbinsciaching@gmail.com Other resources:https://add.org/https://www.additudemag.com/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Epi 340Feeling triggered, lonely, or stuck during the holidays? You're not alone—and this episode is here to help you THRIVE 🎄💪Join your host Mel and Fruzsina Varga, MA, LPC, CMHCA—licensed clinician & mindset coach from POP Recovery Systems—as we deep-dive into the emotional rollercoaster of the post-op journey, identity crisis, body image struggles, and how to reset your mindset during the most difficult season of the year. 🌟 This episode is packed with transformational insights for:Emotional eating recoveryHoliday weight gain mindset tipsOvercoming body dysmorphia after VSG or gastric bypassJournaling & grounding exercises to improve your mental healthNavigating toxic family environments & triggersSelf-sabotage & how to break old patterns 📌 Resources & Links👥 Join the POP Recovery Community – Free Consultations & Coaching📓 Journal Prompts from Mel – www.OurSleevedLifePodcast.com📱 DM Mel anytime — She answers them all!📺 Watch the IG Live Replay on POP Recovery’s and OSLP IG page💬 Need Mental Health Support?You’re never alone. If you are struggling with suicidal thoughts, please seek immediate support. Text or call 988 (in the U.S.), or visit suicidepreventionlifeline.org📣 Subscribe for weekly episodes!If you’re on the bariatric journey, healing your relationship with food, or learning to love yourself again—this podcast is for YOU 💕#MindsetAfterSurgery #EmotionalEatingHelp #BariatricJourney #HolidayMindset #FoodFreedom #BodyImageHealing #VSGRecovery #MentalHealthAwareness #SelfLoveJourney #OurSleevedLife #POPRecovery Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

EPI 6On this episode of The Cutting Edge Podcast, Mel is joined by bariatric therapist Ashlyn Douglass-Barnes, LCSW, and board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Omar Beidas for a deep, honest, and much-needed conversation about something patients rarely talk about out loud:What do you do when the people you expected to support your plastic surgery… don’t?This episode breaks down the real reasons partners, spouses, and family members struggle with your decision — and trust us, it's almost never the reason they’re saying out loud. We dig into the psychology, the fears, the passive-aggressive comments, the emotional triggers, and the communication breakdowns that happen before and after surgery.Whether you're preparing for skin removal, reconstructive surgery, or any post-weight loss procedure, this episode gives you the mindset tools and practical strategies to protect your peace, get the support you deserve, and feel empowered every step of the way. 💬 In This Episode We Cover:The top 3 reasons partners become unsupportiveHow abandonment fears show up as jealousy or criticismWhy money arguments are usually NOT about moneyHow to navigate passive-aggressive comments with curiosityWhat to do if your support person is making recovery harderWhen you should bring your partner to your consultHow trauma, past medical experiences, and communication styles affect supportWhen hiring professional post-op care is the best choice How to emotionally prepare for plastic surgery as a weight-loss patient🔥 Big Truths From This Episode:“Support isn’t about who’s available — it’s about who actually shows up.”“Just because THEY don’t think it’s an issue doesn’t mean it’s not an issue for YOU.”“Soetimes the fear isn’t surgery… it’s abandonment.”“Passive-aggressive comments are often someone’s fear showing up sideways.”🩺 Featuring:Ashlyn Douglass-Barnes, LCSW – Bariatric therapist, mindset expert, skin removal patientDr. Omar Beidas, MD, FACS – Board-certified plastic surgeon, Orlando, FLHosted by Mel – Creator of Our Sleeved Life Podcast & The Cutting Edge Podcast🎧 Why You Should Watch:If you’re preparing for plastic surgery, struggling with lack of support at home, or just want to feel seen, validated, and informed — this episode is going to hit home in the BEST way. You deserve a safe, supported recovery, and we’re here to make sure you get exactly that. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

EPI: 339Today on Our Sleeved Life Podcast, Mel sits down with Kimberly for a powerful and emotional patient story you’ll never forget. After surviving long-haul COVID, battling cardiomyopathy, going through a hysterectomy, and reaching her highest weight of 360 lbs, Kimberly made the life-changing decision to undergo VSG (Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy).Now, 14 months later, she has lost 145 pounds, reversed major health risks, and completely transformed her daily life.In this episode, we dive into:• What long-haul COVID really feels like• How cardiomyopathy and high blood pressure became Kimberly’s turning point• The emotional toll of weight gain after hysterectomy• The bariatric surgery approval process and choosing the right surgeon• Stress eating, emotional triggers, and food addiction• Building habits during the honeymoon phase• Life-changing non-scale victories• How therapy and mental health play into sustainable weight loss• Daily weigh-ins, accountability tools, and managing fear of regainWhether you’re researching weight-loss surgery, considering VSG, looking for real patient experiences, or trying to understand obesity and post-op mental health, this episode is packed with insight, hope, and relatable moments.Watch the full conversation to learn how Kimberly reclaimed her freedom, her mobility, and her life.Listen on all major podcast platforms + watch the full video on YouTube! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Epi 5Think you're ready for plastic surgery? Think again.In this eye-opening episode of the Cutting Edge Podcast, Mel sits down with Ashlyn Douglass-Barnes and Dr. Omar E. Beidas (MD, FACS) to reveal the raw truth about post-op recovery — the stuff you won’t hear during a consult.Whether you're prepping for lipo 360, skin removal, or bariatric plastic surgery, this is the real talk you need. 💬 🔍 What You’ll Learn:The shocking truth about depression after surgery 😔Why protein loading changes everythingThe dark side of compression garments (Fajas) 😮Which supplements & meds to stop pre-op (GLP-1s, Ozempic, etc.)Smoking & surgery — it’s riskier than you think 🚭How to prepare if you’re traveling for surgery ✈️Why your support system can make or break your recovery 💬 Real Talk, Real People:With doctor-backed advice and first-hand patient insight, this episode breaks down myths, gives you honest expectations, and prepares you for a safer, smoother recovery. 🔗 Check out BariatricWarriorSupport.com or licensed post-op nurses & travel help.📢 Comment below: What shocked you most in this episode? Or what’s your top post-op tip? #PlasticSurgeryRecovery #PostOpTips #CompressionGarment #FajaLife #BodyContourHealing #BariatricRecovery #CuttingEdgePodcast Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Epi 338In this powerful episode of Our Sleeved Life Podcast, Jefe shares his raw and unfiltered story — from battling trauma and unhealthy food habits to reclaiming his health after gastric sleeve surgery. 💪 This is more than a weight loss story. It's a transformation of mindset, lifestyle, and self-love.🎙️ Whether you’re considering bariatric surgery, navigating pre-op weight loss requirements, or in the middle of a post-op stall, this episode is a must-listen for anyone in the WLS (Weight Loss Surgery) community.🔍 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Why Jefe chose gastric sleeve surgery after his wife’s transformationHow childhood trauma, emotional eating, and food as a coping mechanism shaped his weight gainThe REALITY of doing a 4-week liquid diet pre-op (yes, it was brutal)Overcoming toxic masculinity and the "I can do it alone" mindsetHow support systems — spouse, friends, and community — can make or break your bariatric journeyManaging food cravings post-op and learning to love high-protein, low-carb mealsHonest talk on mental health, body image, and navigating life after weight loss surgery🔗 Helpful Resources:💻 Watch more WLS journeys: Our Sleeved Life Playlist🛍️ Shop Bariatric Essentials: Our Favorite Tools & Snacks📱 Follow Jefe's food hacks & journey: @@jefesway219 on TikTok👉 If you’re ready to rewrite your story, subscribe and join our bariatric community today. 🎧 New episodes weekly!#GastricSleeve #WLSJourney #OurSleevedLifePodcast #WeightLossSurgery #EmotionalEating #MenInWLS #ChubbyGang #VSGLife #BariatricSupport #BeforeAndAfter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Epi 4Considering plastic surgery after major weight loss? Not sure where to start or what procedures actually give the best results? In this episode of The Cutting Edge Podcast, host Mel dives deep with expert plastic surgeon Dr. Omar Beidas, MD FACS and licensed clinical social worker Ashlyn Douglass-Barnes, LCSW, to unpack the essential truths about body contouring, extended tummy tucks, 360 procedures, muscle repair, and avoiding regret after surgery.You’ll learn:✅ How to choose the right plastic surgery for your body goals✅ What surgeons should be telling you (but often don’t)✅ Extended vs. standard tummy tuck: which is best for massive weight loss?✅ Why lipo is underrated and cool sculpting is often a waste✅ Real talk on insurance, dog ears, belly buttons, and scar placement✅ The dangers of choosing unqualified cosmetic surgeons✅ The surprising role of visceral fat and how it impacts your surgery planWhether you're prepping for surgery or already navigating revision procedures, this episode is packed with value, lived experience, and expert clinical insights that will save you time, money, and heartache.👂 Tune in and take notes — your future body will thank you!🔗 Connect with us:→ Mel Gottfried: melunfiltered.vsg→  Dr. Beidas: drbodycontouring→ Ashlyn Douglass-Barnes, LCSW: ashlynchange4life2012 🙌 Subscribe for more honest conversations around plastic surgery, nutrition, and life after weight loss! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Epi 337 In this value-packed episode of Our Sleeved Life Podcast, host Mel welcomes licensed dietitian Melanie Crum from Pop Recovery Systems to dive deep into strategies for surviving (and thriving!) during the holiday season after weight loss surgery. From emotional eating triggers to smart holiday portion control, they share powerful advice for anyone navigating Thanksgiving after gastric sleeve, bypass, or bariatric revision. 🎯 Topics Covered: What to eat on Thanksgiving after bariatric surgery Mindful holiday eating without guilt Tips for dealing with family pressure & food pushers Why smaller plates = better post-op control Alcohol and WLS: what you need to know Emotional resilience during the holidays How to plan ahead for success & stay aligned with your “why” 🍽️ Whether you’re weeks post-op or 10 years out, this episode will support your long-term success with real-life tools for bariatric holiday success. 🎁 BONUS: Book your FREE 1:1 Consultation with POP today Click Here — no pressure, just personalized support. Join POP community Link 🔔 Subscribe for more WLS advice, mindset breakthroughs, and bariatric community inspiration. 💬 Drop your biggest Thanksgiving food temptation below! #BariatricLife #ThanksgivingAfterWLS #GastricSleeveSupport #WeightLossSurgeryHelp #BariatricPodcast #OurSleevedLife #HolidayEatingTips #PostOpSupport #MindfulEating #EmotionalEatingHelp #VSGCommunity Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.