Bariatric surgery, which is sometimes called weight loss surgery, is truly life-changing. Not only can it help patients slim down to a healthy, attractive weight, it can potentially save their lives. Naturally, anyone who’s considering bariatric surgery probably has a few questions.
Here are just a few of the answers patients commonly seek.
Is it right for me? – Bariatric surgery isn’t right for everyone, unfortunately. It’s a very serious procedure that requires people to change the way they live. Bariatric surgery should only be considered as an option if a patient has a body mass index higher than 40 or a BMI higher than 35, but also has serious obesity-related health problems, has tried other options and failed, and fully understands the risks associated with weight loss surgery.
How much weight will I lose? – After bariatric surgery, you’re going to lose a lot of weight. The amount, though, depends on what type of procedure you undergo. If you get gastric bypass surgery, you’ll lose upwards of 60% of your excess weight. After a gastric lap band procedure, you’ll lose about 47% of your excess weight.
What risks are associated with weight loss surgery? – Some of the risks associated with bariatric surgery include vomitting from eating too much too quickly, constipation, nutritional deficiencies (such as osteoporosis or anemia), and infections in the surgical wounds. Some of the complications that may develop after the surgery include hernias, excess skin, dehydration, hair loss, kidney stones, hypoglycemia, gallstones, ulcerations, and gastric prolapse.
Weight loss surgery is life-changing. It can help you reach the weight you need to be and avoid the dangerous, possibly fatal diseases associated with obesity. That being said, it’s not for everyone and it’s not without risks. It’s a medical option that requires a patient to be absolutely certain before operation.
If you have any other questions about bariatric surgery, feel free to share in the comments.