Why Now Might Be the Right Time to Start your Weight-Loss Journey

When the school year starts and the days begin to cool off—even just a little in South Georgia—it's a natural time to reset your routine. For many, that includes getting back to healthy habits and tackling goals that may have taken a backseat during summer vacation. If you've been thinking about weight loss surgery or medically supervised weight management, now could be the perfect time to take the first step. 

"There's something about the rhythm of late summer and early fall that makes people more focused and goal-oriented," says Dr. Mary K. Hanisee, bariatric surgeon at Archbold Bariatric Surgery & Weight Loss Management in Thomasville. "It's an ideal time to start preparing for big lifestyle changes that can transform your health."

Why Late Summer Is a Smart Time to Get Started

Starting your weight-loss journey in August or September gives your a head start before the holiday season and plenty of time to prepare for a healthier new year. 

Whether you're pursuing surgery or non-surgical support, getting started now offers several advantages:

• Less Disruption: Kids are back in school, travel slows down, and routines become more predictable.
   
• More Time to Prepare: The evaluation and pre-op process takes several weeks, giving you time to complete your requirements without feeling rushed. 
   
• Stronger Results by the New Year: Many patients who start their journey now are already seeing progress, and in some cases, recovering from surgery by the new year.

What the Weight-Loss Surgery Timeline Looks Like

From the first visit to the day of surgery, the process typically takes two to three months. And while every patient's journey is unique, here's a general idea of what to expect:

Step 1: Initial Consultation and Evaluation

You'll meet with Dr. Hanisee and the team to discuss your goals, health history, and which treatment options are best for you—whether that's surgical or non-surgical weight loss. 

Step 2: Complete Pre-Op Requirements

This phase includes physical exams, nutritional counseling, psychological evaluation, and lab work. Most insurance providers also require several months of supervised weight-loss visits before surgery can be approved. 

Step 3: Prepare for Weight Loss Surgery

Once all evaluations are complete and insurance is approved, you'll schedule your surgery date and attend a pre-operative class to prepare you for recovery and life after surgery.

Step 4: Surgery and Recovery

Most patients go home the same day or the day after surgery and can return to work within a couple of weeks, depending on the type of procedure. 

Small Steps, Big Results

Starting a weight-loss journey can feel overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be. Even if you're not quite ready to commit to surgery, taking that initial step by scheduling a consultation can set powerful changes in motion. 

"Our program is about more than just surgery—it's about support," explains Dr. Hanisee. "We offer a comprehensive approach that includes education, nutrition counseling, behavioral health support, and access to a community that truly understands the challenges of weight loss."

At Archbold, the focus is helping you find the right path for your body, your goals, and your lifestyle. That's why we offer a full range of tools to support you on your weight loss journey. 

• One-on-One Nutritional Counseling
  Learn how to fuel your body in a way that promotes long-term success, with practical tips you can apply right away.
   
• Weight Loss Support Group
  Connect with others who are on a similar journey. Whether you're exploring your options or preparing for surgery, peer support can be incredibly motivating and helpful. 
   
• Medically Supervised Weight-Loss Programs
  For patients who aren't candidates for surgery or prefer a non-surgical approach, personalized plans are available that incorporate medical monitoring, goal setting, and accountability. 
   
• Educational Workshops and Pre-Surgery Classes
  Get familiar with what life looks like after surgery, from portion control to mindful eating to emotional wellness.

"There's tremendous value in simply starting the conversation," says Dr. Hanisee. "Many of our patients feel a sense of relief and hope after their first visit. They realize they don't have to have it all figured out—they just need to take the first step."

And that first step doesn't need to involve a big commitment. It's about gathering information, understanding your options, and finding encouragement and support from a team that genuinely cares about your success. 

No matter where you are in your journey, you're not along. The decision to focus on your health is a powerful one. Whether your goal is to feel more energetic, reduce health risks, or regain confidence, small intentional steps today can lead to significant, life-changing results tomorrow. 

Ready for a Change? Now's the Time

are you still waiting for the "perfect" moment to start feeling better, moving more easily, and living a healthier life? There's no better time than right now to take that first step!

Scheduled your consultation with Dr. Hanisee and the Archbold Bariatric Surgery & Weight Loss Management team today!

Request an appointment online or call us at (229) 226-8881.