EPI 6

On 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 unsupportive

How abandonment fears show up as jealousy or criticism

Why money arguments are usually NOT about money

How to navigate passive-aggressive comments with curiosity

What to do if your support person is making recovery harder

When you should bring your partner to your consult

How trauma, past medical experiences, and communication styles affect support

When 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.

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