Our Sleeved Life Podcast

Epi 19 Plastic surgery won’t fix everything… and that’s the truth most people aren’t prepared to hear. If you’re considering plastic surgery after weight loss, bariatric surgery, or procedures like liposuction, tummy tuck (abdominoplasty), or body contouring, this video will completely change how you think about the journey. In this episode, we break down the biggest myths about plastic surgery, including the belief that it’s the final step or a permanent solution. The reality? Plastic surgery is not a weight loss solution, not a shortcut, and not a guarantee of confidence or long-term results. Drawing from real patient experiences and expert insights, we explore what actually happens after procedures like VASER liposuction 360, Renuvion skin tightening, arm lift surgery, breast reduction, and lower body lift. 💬 Have you considered plastic surgery or already gone through it? Share your experience in the comments — your story could help someone else on this journey. 👍 If this video gave you clarity, like & subscribe for real, honest conversations about weight loss, plastic surgery, and body confidence. 🔔 Turn on notifications so you don’t miss expert insights, real patient stories, and myth-busting episodes. 📲 Share this video with someone who’s thinking about surgery — it might change their perspective. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of the Our Sleeved Life Podcast, we sit down with Shea (@growwithshea) to talk about her journey with bariatric surgery (vertical sleeve gastrectomy), PCOS, fertility struggles, and everything that comes after.   Shea shares what led her to choose gastric sleeve surgery, what the first 24 hours were really like, and how the experience changed not just her body but her mindset, relationships, and daily life.   We also get into: Living with PCOS and weight gain Deciding if weight loss surgery is right for you The reality of recovery after gastric sleeve How bariatric surgery can impact marriage and personal growth Learning to trust your body again after surgery   If you’re thinking about bariatric surgery, dealing with PCOS, or just want to hear a real, honest story from someone who’s been through it this episode is for you.   💬 Have questions about bariatric surgery or PCOS? Drop them in the comments we’d love to hear from you! 👍 If this helped you, don’t forget to like & subscribe for more real bariatric journeys and support.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Epi 18   What do you actually need after plastic surgery… and what are people forgetting to tell you?   In this episode of the Cutting Edge Podcast, we break down the real-life essentials for plastic surgery recovery—from must-have supplies to unexpected things that can make or break your healing process.   If you’re preparing for body contouring after weight loss, a tummy tuck, breast surgery, or any cosmetic procedure, this episode will help you feel prepared, confident, and ahead of the game.   We’re joined by expert plastic surgeon Dr. Omar Beidas and therapist Ashlyn Douglass-Barnes, who shares her real patient experience through multiple surgeries, so you get both medical insight AND real-life tips you can actually use.   You’ll learn: What supplies you really need after plastic surgery The most overlooked recovery items patients forget How to manage drains and what to expect Why compression garments matter and how long to wear them How to reduce swelling, bruising, and fluid buildup Tips for sleeping, showering, and daily comfort after surgery What to eat after surgery for better healing and recovery How to prepare your home before surgery day   From wedge pillows and compression garments to drainage care and recovery hacks, this is your complete guide to plastic surgery recovery essentials.   Whether you’re pre-op, post-op, or just researching your options, this episode gives you the tools to recover smarter and avoid common mistakes.   🎧 Listen on all podcast platforms 📺 Watch more episodes on YouTube 💬 Drop your recovery questions in the comments   If this helped you feel more prepared, make sure to like, subscribe, and share with someone getting ready for surgery. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Struggling with weight regain after bariatric surgery or curious about GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and semaglutide? In this episode, Dr. Eric Ibegbu explains why weight regain is biology—not failure and how GLP-1 medications help control appetite, metabolism, and fat loss. Learn the truth about: Weight loss plateau & metabolism slowdown GLP-1 medications (Ozempic, semaglutide, tirzepatide) Non-surgical weight loss options How to stop weight regain long-term 👉 Connect with Dr. Ibegbu for medical weight loss options @iamthedoctorking 👉 Follow OSLP (Our Sleeved Life Podcast) for more real weight loss journeys & expert insights Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Epi 17   What really happens to your belly button and nipples after plastic surgery… and why is nobody talking about it? In this episode of the Cutting Edge Podcast, we’re getting into the real conversations people are afraid to ask during their consultations. From blood supply and healing risks to sensation changes and surgical staging, this is the unfiltered truth about body contouring after massive weight loss.   If you’ve ever worried about losing sensation, having complications, or just want to understand what surgeons are actually looking for during procedures like tummy tucks, breast lifts, or augmentations… this episode is for you.   We’re joined by expert plastic surgeon Dr. Omar Beidas and therapist Ashlyn Douglass-Barnes as we break down what’s fact, what’s fear, and what you need to know before going under the knife.   You’ll learn: What surgeons mean by “blood supply” and why it matters Why procedures sometimes need to be staged The real risk of complications like tissue loss or numbness What affects nipple sensation after surgery How belly buttons are reshaped and why some look unnatural What to ask your surgeon before plastic surgery Why previous surgeries can impact your results   This is your go-to guide if you’re researching plastic surgery after weight loss, considering a tummy tuck, breast surgery, or just want honest answers without the sugarcoating.   🎧 Listen to the full episode on all podcast platforms 📺 Watch more episodes on YouTube 💬 Drop your questions in the comments for future episodes   If this helped you feel more informed and confident, make sure to like, subscribe, and share with someone who needs to hear this. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Epi 16 Many people believe plastic surgery after weight loss is a one-and-done procedure—but that’s rarely the reality. In this episode of the Cutting Edge Podcast / Our Sleeved Life Podcast, we break down the truth about staging plastic surgery and why many patients need multiple surgeries to achieve their final results. If you’ve experienced massive weight loss, had bariatric surgery, or are researching skin removal surgery, body contouring, tummy tuck, breast lift, arm lift, or lower body lift, this episode will help you understand how surgeons plan procedures safely and why staging is often necessary. Our experts discuss how post weight loss plastic surgery works, why some procedures cannot be performed in one operation, and what patients should expect during their body contouring journey. We also talk about the emotional and mental health side of the process—because for many patients, the biggest challenge isn’t just surgery, it’s helping others understand why the process takes time. In this episode, we discuss: ✨ What staging in plastic surgery actually means ✨ Why skin removal surgery after massive weight loss often requires multiple procedures ✨ The most common combinations for body contouring surgery ✨ How surgeons decide what can safely be done together ✨ Why procedures like tummy tuck, breast lift, and lower body lift may need separate stages ✨ How skin quality and anatomy affect surgical planning ✨ What to ask during your plastic surgery consultation Whether you're considering excess skin removal, comparing body lift vs tummy tuck, or researching the best plastic surgery options after bariatric surgery, this episode provides real insight into the process. Thinking about plastic surgery after weight loss? Watch this episode before scheduling your consult so you can better understand how surgeons plan post weight loss body contouring and why staging often leads to safer procedures and better results. 👍 Like this video if you want more honest conversations about plastic surgery 💬 Comment below: Did you know many patients need multiple surgeries after massive weight loss? 🔔 Subscribe for more expert discussions about plastic surgery, bariatric life, mental health, and body transformation Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Epi 348 What happens when you hit 601 pounds and realize your life may depend on changing everything? In this powerful episode of the Our Sleeved Life Podcast, Adrian shares the moment that forced him to face reality—when hospital staff couldn't weigh him normally and had to use a laundry scale in the ER. That moment became the turning point that started his life-changing weight loss journey. Adrian opens up about his experience with morbid obesity, hitting over 600 pounds, struggling to walk just 88 steps, and the emotional toll that came with it. After years of battling his weight and facing serious health risks, he made the decision to undergo gastric sleeve bariatric surgery and rebuild his life. Today, Adrian is more than 250 pounds down, active in the gym, part of a run club, and inspiring thousands by sharing his journey online. This episode dives deep into the realities of bariatric surgery, massive weight loss, mental health, body image, dating after weight loss, loose skin, fitness, and finding confidence again. If you're considering weight loss surgery, currently on your bariatric journey, or searching for motivation to change your health and your life, Adrian’s story proves that transformation is possible—even when it feels impossible. Go Follow Adrian and OSLP  Instagram: @itsthisguyAZ @oursleevedlifepodcast Photography: Big Bear Media 512 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Epi 15 I spent $5,000 on CoolSculpting… and it didn’t go how I expected. In this episode, we break down the truth about CoolSculpting vs liposuction, non-surgical fat reduction, Kybella injections, Emsculpt, radio frequency skin tightening, and when surgery is actually the better option. If you’re considering CoolSculpting, fat freezing, or any non-surgical body contouring treatment, this honest conversation may save you thousands of dollars. 💸 Here’s What We Cover: • Why CoolSculpting doesn’t work for most weight loss patients • How paradoxical adipose hyperplasia (PAH) can make fat grow instead of shrink • Why providers often recommend multiple treatment sessions • CoolSculpting cost vs liposuction cost • When liposuction is “one and done” • Why removing fat can actually make loose skin worse • How to know if you're a good candidate for non-surgical fat reduction 🚨 Myth-Busting Moments: • Cellulite has NOTHING to do with being overweight • There is no cream that removes stretch marks • Kybella does NOT tighten loose skin • Non-surgical treatments cannot replace significant skin removal • If a clinic only offers one device, that’s what they’ll sell you 💉 We Also Discuss: • Emsculpt for muscle building and toning • Radio frequency skin tightening (Renuvion / BodyTite) • Injectable fillers vs a surgical facelift • Why 14 syringes of filler can cost as much as a facelift • The dangers of illegal butt injections • Why silicone injections can turn necrotic 🎯 The Big Takeaway: Don’t walk into a consultation asking for a machine. Walk in explaining your goal. The right treatment depends on: Skin quality Fat volume Weight loss history Realistic expectations Non-surgical plastic surgery can work — but only for the right patient. 🎙 Hosted by Our Sleeved Life Podcast 👨‍⚕️ Featuring Dr. Omar Beidas, MD, FACS 🧠 With Ashlyn Douglass-Barnes, LCSW This content is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Always consult a board-certified plastic surgeon.   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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.