What No One Tells You About Life After Skin Removal Surgery

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:[email protected] 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.