More than 113,000 people every year decide that the only way they can lose weight is through weight loss (bariatric) surgery. For some, it is the last hope. For others, it is a quick fix. But, weight loss surgery has inherent dangers and is useful only in combination with necessary lifestyle changes. It is not for everyone.
Pros
It is estimated that every year 300,000 Americans die from the obesity-related causes. Million of others are suffering from obesity-related high blood pressure, diabetes and arthritis. If you are 100 pounds overweight (80 pounds for women), and you tried for years to lose weight through diet and exercise, you might be the right candidate for weight loss surgery. Less overweight people who are also suffering from diabetes, some heart conditions or sleep apnea are also good candidates.
Gastric bypass surgery can make some people loose 60 per cent of their excess weight in about six years. But, this works only if they learn how to eat healthy.
Drastic loss of weight can quickly improve other related health issues such as diabetes and high blood pressure.
Weight loss surgery can improve self-esteem and self-0confidence of obese people and help them get happier and healthier lifestyle.
Cons
Weight loss surgery is a surgery, and as such carries serious risks. In addition, a number of people develop complications after the operation. Besides mild pain, some people suffer from nausea, upset stomach and vomiting. A small number develop abdominal hernia or have wound infections.
Serious complications after weight loss surgery can be:
Heart attack
Pulmonary embolism
Leaks in the new stomach connections
Bleeding stomach ulcers
Gallstones
Malnutrition and vitamin deficiency due to poor absorption of nutrients
Ugly excess skin, which usually leads to another operation to remove it
If you have battling obesity for a number of years and believe that weight loss surgery would help you, ask yourself some basic questions:
1. Did you seriously try to lose weight through normal means – diet and exercise?
2. Are you willing to drastically change your lifestyle after the operation? No more eating binges, junk food and sodas?
3. Are you willing to start exercising regularly?
4. Are you healthy enough to go through surgery without consequences?
5. Are you willing to take serious risk any operation involves? Did you check with your family if they agree with you?
6. Does your doctor believe that the surgery would make you healthier?
You are the only one who can honestly answer to all these questions and you are the only one to decide if the surgery is the right solution for you. If you decide to go for it, ask your doctor to recommend the best hospital and the most experienced surgeon for you.
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