There is no doubt that weight loss surgery can be an effective weight loss solution. However, it is not without risk. Knowing for certain if you need weight loss surgery is something that will ultimately require the guidance of a medical doctor. There are some factors you can look at beforehand to help you make an informed decision.
What is weight loss surgery?
Weight loss surgery, basically reduces the size of your stomach. You feel fuller faster and as a result take in fewer calories. The speed of weight loss varies on the type of surgery.
What are the types of weight loss surgery?
Weight loss surgery is considered a bariatric procedure and will often be performed at a bariatric treatment center. There are different types of bariatric surgery. The most common types are: gastric bypass, Lap-band and gastric sleeve surgery. The risks vary among the different procedures. As does the rate at which you will lose weight. A bariatric surgeon can help you decide which procedure is right for you.
Gastric bypass surgery divides the stomach, usually with surgical staples, into two pouches. The smaller, upper pouch is then attached to the small intestine. The amount of food you are able to take in is greatly reduced, resulting in very fast weight loss.
In Lap-Band surgery a silicone rubber band, placed around the top part of the stomach, creates a small pouch. Similar to gastric bypass you feel fuller quicker, but the food passes from the smaller stomach pouch into the lower part of the stomach and then into the digestive tract.
Gastric sleeve surgery is a relatively new procedure. A portion of the stomach is removed during this surgery. Only small incisions are used and a laparoscopic tool provides a guide during the procedure.
This surgery is most often used for people who are not able to have one of the more invasive surgeries.
Who makes a good candidate for weight loss surgery?
If you have been struggling with what is considered to be morbid obesity, you may be a good candidate for gastric bypass surgery. Those having a BMI over 40% fall into the category of being morbidly obese. Other factors that may make weight loss surgery a good option are, any health problems that are, at least in part, caused by weight problems, such as high blood pressure or diabetes. You do not have any untreated mental illnesses and are between the ages of 18 and 65. You have struggled to lose weight before without much success.
What the benefits of weight loss surgery?
At the top of the benefits list would be fast weight loss. It is common to lose weight very rapidly in the first year of having weight loss surgery. The total amount of weight loss will vary depending on the individual and type of surgery performed. Improved health is another potential benefit, the risk of heart disease and diabetes is reduced. Life expectancy can also be increased.
