An increasing number of people are having weight problems and many are trying different methods in order to shed off the excess weight. Weight loss surgery is gaining popularity as a cure for severe obesity. In some cases, weight loss surgery can be a matter of life and death. For instance the NHS estimated obesity-related deaths in 2004 to be over 34,000. However, not everyone is a suitable candidate for weight loss surgery.
It is debatable whether or not weight loss surgery is effective with respect to a long-term weight management. However, depending on how it is utilized, just like a knife, it can be useful or harmful to the user.
Weight loss surgery doesn’t have to do with a better figure, even though with it a person will be able to fit in smaller size and stylish clothes. There is need for caution because it is possible for someone who has opted for this surgery to end up paying more visits to the operating room which were never anticipated in the first place. For instance, there could be some results from the first weight loss surgery which will require further surgery owing to excessive skin due to rapid weight loss.
There are a number of cases whereby people have lost considerable weight after undergoing Bariatric surgery but have regained some of it. Before opting for this surgery, one needs to make a total commitment to lifelong changes for permanent results. It should be remembered that this is a major and potentially risky surgery and complications are likely to occur. One should prudently consider it before settling for it. This option, therefore, should come as a last resort after all the others have been exhausted.
Generally, bariatric weight loss surgery, also referred to as weight loss surgery is safe although it has some risks attached to it. Bariatric surgery does not mean an automatic loss of weight afterwards. There is need for commitment to lifetime changes in diet and lifestyle.
Weight loss surgery might be the better option for you in case you meet these conditions:
- Your BMI (body mass index) exceeds 40. You can compute it with the help of a BMI calculator.
- Your BMI is above 35 and you have health issues related to obesity which may be improved by means of weight loss. These include diabetes, obstructive sleep apnoea, arthritis and numerous conditions which can benefit from even a little weight loss. Such health complications can be reversed by weight loss surgery if they were caused by obesity.
- You can certify that you have tried weight loss programmes such as exercise and diet for not less than six months and they have proved ineffective. It is much better to lose weight without involving surgery with its risks. There are some centres where you may be required to prove that you have really strived to cut on your weight.
- You are prepared to make a commitment yourself to permanent changes to your lifestyle and after surgery, a follow up at an expert obesity service centre. This is because surgery is merely the commencement of a new and healthy way of life.
- You comprehend both the benefits and hazards of this surgery and your health is sound enough, able to bear the possible risks. Just as it is with other surgical procedures, it is important to have adequate information before you can consider weight loss surgery to allow you to know and accept the benefits and risks.
Benefits derived from weight loss surgery
The Bariatric surgery’s most significant benefit is that it causes a quick weight loss which greatly improves one’s health and any complications that are associated with obesity. In addition, it can increase one’s self-esteem especially for those who are uncomfortable with their size, as they can be able to put on clothes which they could not wear again or before.
The life quality of nearly 95% of people in the US reportedly improved following weight loss surgery. There are some studies which have suggested that people tend to live longer after undergoing weight loss surgery as compared to those who are obese and fail to opt for it.
Hazards of weight loss surgery
A small number of people experience complications later. However, the problems are merely inconvenient or unpleasant and might result in some discomfort and pain or call for further operations. They may include revulsion, diarrhoea, and vomiting, abdominal hernia and wound infections.
Although severe complications occur following weight loss surgery, they are rare but at times they can be deadly.
The following are other common problems which occur after a successful weight loss surgery:
- Too much skin that requires removal through surgery (also known as body contouring)
- Gallstones, which often require the removal of the gall bladder
- Malnutrition or vitamin deficiency due to poor absorption
After weight loss surgery, one should eat in a healthy manner and take vitamin supplements or else risk malnutrition which can result into loss of muscle tone, bone condition and anaemia. Also, exercise is vital in the maintenance of proper weight.