Bariatric surgery is a type of surgical procedure used to help people who are severely overweight or obese lose weight. This type of surgery involves changing the digestive system to limit the amount of food a person can eat, as well as the number of calories and nutrients that the body can absorb. Bariatric surgery is a major procedure that requires significant preparation, aftercare, and lifestyle changes.
Therefore, individuals need to clearly understand what to expect regarding weight loss and health improvements after the surgery.
This article will discuss the types of bariatric surgery, bariatric surgery success rates, how it works, and the eligibility criteria. We’ll also cover the weight loss expectations, health improvements, and lifestyle changes individuals can expect after bariatric surgery. Finally, we’ll discuss the importance of managing expectations for a successful outcome.
What is Bariatric Surgery?
Bariatric surgery is a type of surgical procedure that is used to help people who are severely overweight or obese lose weight. The surgery involves changing the digestive system to limit the total amount of food a person can eat, as well as the number of calories and nutrients that the body can absorb. Bariatric surgery is not a really quick fix for weight loss but rather a tool that can help individuals achieve significant weight loss and improve their health.
Types of Bariatric Surgery
There are several types of bariatric surgery, each with its own benefits and risks. The most common types of this surgery include:
Gastric Bypass Surgery
Gastric bypass surgery involves creating a small pouch at the top of the stomach, which is then connected directly to the small intestine. This limits the amount of food consumed and the number of calories and nutrients the body can absorb.
Sleeve Gastrectomy
Sleeve gastrectomy involves removing a large portion of the stomach to create a smaller, sleeve-shaped stomach. This limits the amount of food consumed and the number of calories and nutrients the body can absorb.
Adjustable Gastric Banding
Adjustable gastric banding involves placing an small inflatable band around the stomach’s top, creating a smaller pouch. The band can be adjusted over time to limit the amount of food that can be consumed.
Biliopancreatic Diversion with Duodenal Switch
Biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch involves removing a large portion of the stomach and rerouting the small intestine to limit the amount of food that can be consumed and the number of calories and nutrients that the body can absorb.
The type of bariatric surgery that is recommended will depend on a person’s overall health, weight loss goals, and other individual factors. A healthcare professional can guide each individual on the best type of bariatric surgery. Check out this article from West Medical https://westmedical.com/bariatric-surgery/ to know your options.
How Bariatric Surgery Works
Bariatric surgery works by making changes to the digestive system to limit the amount of food that a person can eat, as well as the number of calories and nutrients that the body can absorb. After bariatric surgery, the stomach is much smaller, which means that a person can only eat small amounts of food at a time. In addition, the surgery can change the way that the body absorbs and processes food, which can further help with weight loss.
Bariatric surgery is not a easy fix for weight loss but rather a tool that can help individuals achieve significant weight loss and improve their health. However, it is really important to note that the success of bariatric surgery depends on an individual’s commitment to making lifestyle changes after the surgery.
Eligibility Criteria for Bariatric Surgery
Bariatric surgery is a major procedure that requires significant preparation, aftercare, and lifestyle changes. Therefore, it is important to ensure that an individual is a suitable candidate for the surgery before undergoing the procedure. The eligibility criteria for bariatric surgery may vary depending on the surgery and the healthcare provider. However, some common criteria include the following:
- BMI of 40 or higher, or 35 or higher with an obesity-related health condition such as type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure
- Failed attempts at weight loss through diet and exercise
- Commitment to making lifestyle changes after the surgery
- No significant medical conditions that could increase the risk of complications during or after the surgery
Individuals need to have an open and honest discussion with a healthcare professional to determine if bariatric surgery is the right choice for them. A healthcare professional can help individuals weigh the potential benefits and risks of the procedure and provide guidance on how to prepare for the surgery.
Weight Loss Expectations
Bariatric surgery is an effective tool for weight loss, but the amount of weight loss can vary depending on the procedure and individual factors such as age, gender, and pre-existing health conditions. On average, individuals can expect to lose between 50% and 70% of their excess weight in the first two years after bariatric surgery.
It is important to note that weight loss after bariatric surgery is not immediate, and individuals may experience some weight regain in the months and years following the surgery. However, with a commitment to making lifestyle changes and following a healthy diet and exercise plan, individuals can maintain long-term weight loss and achieve significant health benefits.
Health Improvements After Bariatric Surgery
In addition to weight loss, bariatric surgery can lead to significant improvements in a variety of obesity-related health conditions. Some of the most common health improvements after bariatric surgery include:
- Type 2 diabetes: Bariatric surgery can lead to significant improvements in blood sugar control and may even lead to remission of type 2 diabetes in some cases.
- High blood pressure: Bariatric surgery can significantly improve blood pressure control, reducing the risk of heart disease and other complications.
- Sleep apnea: Bariatric surgery can significantly improve sleep apnea symptoms, improving sleep quality and overall health.
- Joint pain: Bariatric surgery can reduce the strain on joints, reducing joint pain and improving mobility.
While bariatric surgery can lead to significant health improvements, it is important to note that there are potential risks and complications associated with the surgery. A healthcare professional can provide guidance on how to minimize the risks and maximize the health benefits of bariatric surgery.
Lifestyle Changes After Bariatric Surgery
Bariatric surgery is a tool that can help individuals achieve significant weight loss and health improvements, but it is not a quick fix. In order to achieve long-term success after bariatric surgery, it is important to make lifestyle changes to support weight loss and maintain good health.
Some of the lifestyle changes that may be recommended after bariatric surgery include:
- Following a healthy diet: After bariatric surgery, individuals must follow a diet to promote weight loss and ensure proper nutrition. The diet may be low in calories and carbohydrates and may include plenty of protein and fiber.
- Engaging in regular exercise: Regular exercise can help to support weight loss and maintain good health after bariatric surgery. However, starting slowly and gradually increasing activity levels over time is important.
- Attending support groups: Support groups can provide emotional support and practical tips for managing the challenges of bariatric surgery and making lifestyle changes.
- Following up with healthcare professionals: After bariatric surgery, it is important to follow up regularly with a healthcare professional to monitor weight loss and health improvements and to make any necessary adjustments to the treatment plan.
By making lifestyle changes and following a healthy diet and exercise plan, individuals can achieve long-term success after bariatric surgery and maintain good health for years to come.