The Aurora Blueprint

reblackham
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  • MEDICINE
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The Aurora Blueprint is a podcast dedicated to transforming the conversation around weight, wellness, and women’s health. Hosted by bariatric and metabolic surgeon Dr. Ruth Blackham, each episode dives into real, evidence-based insights on weight loss surgery, metabolic health, hormonal balance, and navigating life before and after surgery. Whether you’re considering bariatric surgery, supporting a loved one, or simply looking to better understand your body, The Aurora Blueprint offers practical strategies and compassionate conversations to guide your journey.

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  1. EPISODE 1

    Special Episode 1: What an Anaesthetist Really Does during Bariatric Surgery

    In this episode we interview Consultant Anaesthetist Dr. Gene Palmer about the role of anaesthesia in bariatric surgery. They cover anaesthetist training, what happens before, during, and after surgery, airway management, monitoring, and safety measures used in modern practice. Dr. Palmer also explains how patients can help make their operation safer—preoperative diet, stopping smoking/vaping, sharing medication and sleep apnea history, and bringing CPAP if needed—and reassures listeners about the safety and team-based care in theatre.

    10 min

  2. EPISODE 2

    Special Episode 2: Anaesthetist - How We Manage Pain, Nausea & Recovery

    In this episode Consultant Anaesthetist Dr. Gene Palmer explains the anaesthetic approach to bariatric surgery, covering multimodal pain relief, low-opioid techniques, anti-nausea strategies, and ultrasound-guided abdominal blocks to promote rapid recovery. He also answers practical patient questions about what to expect in the first 24 hours, piercings and nail rules, medication instructions, and simple pre- and post-op tips to improve comfort and outcomes.

    11 min

  3. EPISODE 3

    Special Episode 3: Dermatologist - Why Your Hair Is Shedding and When It Returns

    Dermatologist Dr. Sarah Page explains why many people experience hair loss after weight loss or bariatric surgery, focusing on telogen effluvium — a delayed shedding that often appears about three months after the trigger. She covers common causes such as rapid weight loss, iron and zinc deficiencies, thyroid changes, hormonal shifts and stress. Dr. Page outlines practical steps: get blood tests (iron, zinc, vitamin D, thyroid, hormones), replace specific deficiencies rather than taking generic supplements, consider treatments like topical minoxidil (which can initially shed hairs before thickening them), and be gentle with styling. Recovery commonly takes several months and can take up to a year. Most cases are temporary; reduce stress, address nutrition, and see a specialist if hair loss persists.

    13 min

  4. EPISODE 4

    Special Episode 4: Dermatologist - Loose Skin After Weight Loss, the Answers You Need

    Dr. Sarah Page discusses what to expect for loose skin and facial volume loss after significant weight loss, explaining how factors like the amount and speed of weight loss affect skin elasticity. She outlines prevention and treatment options—from nutrition, sunscreen, and retinoids to injectables, lasers, and surgery—and emphasises patience, realistic expectations, and supportive care during the adjustment period.

    9 min

  5. EPISODE 5

    Special Episode 5: PCOS, Fertility & Bariatric Surgery

    In this episode, Ruth Blackham talks with Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist Dr Eman Al-Naggar about polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), why it impacts ovulation and fertility, and how bariatric surgery can help many women regain regular cycles and improve chances of pregnancy. We cover practical advice on waiting 12–18 months or until weight is stable before conceiving, the importance of monitoring iron, vitamin D and B12 after surgery, and the value of multidisciplinary care; while many women conceive after surgery, other fertility factors may still need investigation.

    9 min

  6. EPISODE 6

    Special Episode 6: Pregnancy After Bariatric Surgery - Timing, Risks & Rewards

    Consultant Obstetrician Dr. Eman Al-Naggar joins the Aurora Blueprint to explain pregnancy after bariatric surgery: when it’s safe to conceive, how sleeve and bypass procedures differ, and the main risks to watch for (nutritional deficiencies, reflux, small bowel obstruction and gallstones). She also covers the benefits—improved fertility, lower rates of gestational diabetes and hypertensive disorders, and higher chances of vaginal delivery—and practical advice on vitamins, folic acid, contraception and coordinated care with your GP and surgeon.

    10 min
See All Season 3 (6)

About

The Aurora Blueprint is a podcast dedicated to transforming the conversation around weight, wellness, and women’s health. Hosted by bariatric and metabolic surgeon Dr. Ruth Blackham, each episode dives into real, evidence-based insights on weight loss surgery, metabolic health, hormonal balance, and navigating life before and after surgery. Whether you’re considering bariatric surgery, supporting a loved one, or simply looking to better understand your body, The Aurora Blueprint offers practical strategies and compassionate conversations to guide your journey.

Information

  • Creator
    reblackham
  • Episodes
    17
  • Seasons
    3
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2025 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    The Aurora Blueprint