8 Important Things to Know Before You Choose Bariatric Surgery
Medically Reviewed by Katelyn J. Mock, US-Registered Dietician (R.D.)
Before you decide to have bariatric surgery, here are a few things that you might want to know.
1. Bariatric Surgery Is Not for Everyone
According to the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS) [1]“Who is a Candidate for Bariatric Surgery?” American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery,
View in Article is the one who has:
- Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 or above, or
- BMI of 35 or above (based on the existence of comorbidities)
- In exceptional cases, a BMI of 30 or above may also qualify.
2. Dietary and Physical Activity Measures Should Have Proved Futile
Weight loss surgery is an excellent option when all else has failed, i.e. the individual has been unsuccessful in losing weight even after eating thoughtfully and exercising rigorously.
3. It Is Not a Shortcut to Weight Loss
Bariatric surgery is a long-term phenomenon, although the process itself does not take much time. Certain prerequisites need to be followed before the procedure, followed by years of monitoring and management.
4. Surgery Is Not a Substitute for a Diet or Exercise
Surgical treatment helps with weight loss initially; however, the onus lies on the individual to maintain or even reduce weight further by accommodating lifestyle and behavioral changes.
5. Vetting the Bariatric Surgeon Is Crucial
You’ll not want to be treated by just about anyone. Therefore, carefully scrutinize the surgeon’s certifications, experience, and educational background. The facilities provided at the hospital and the qualifications of his/her team are a few things to think about.
6. It Is Not Cosmetic
Bariatric surgery is meant solely for living a healthy life and not to improve the aesthetics of the individual. It is not plastic surgery. It just affects the anatomy of the gastrointestinal tract.
7. You Should Carefully Weigh the Risks and Complications of the Surgery
According to WebMD [2]“Is Weight Loss Surgery Right for You?” WebMD, 2017,
View in Article, vomiting, nausea, nutritional deficiency, bloating, gastric sleeve leak, strictures, pouch stretching, Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) and dumping syndrome are some of the common risks and complications of bariatric surgery among most individuals.
8. Bariatric Surgery Warrants Lifestyle Changes for Those Around You
It is necessary to assure your family that bariatric surgery is the only alternative left for losing weight. You require their support for encouragement and motivation. Those around you will also have to make minor lifestyle changes to make it easier for you to follow the bariatric surgeon’s guidelines.
You may initially face food cravings and mood swings, but it will get better with time. Here’s how you can deal with junk food cravings after surgery.
Remember that overcoming small spells of self-doubt will only take you towards building higher self-esteem. Get ready for a physical and emotional change!
Our Clients’ Experiences
- Review of testimonials and real-time recommendations from friends or family members are necessary to know about past patients’ experiences.
- The price difference is a determining factor that was considered by almost all our clients.
- Most of them joined our support groups to get their doubts clarified from our experienced nutritionist before surgery.
- Some struggled with body dysmorphia initially but were fine after counseling, therapy and hitting the gym
- Most of them recommend practicing mindful eating strategies before surgery to deal with the post-operative changes comfortably.
- Because the surgery does not alter the thinking process, our clients also advise preparing the mind in advance for any form of uncertainty that might arise after that.
This Post Addresses
- Considerations before the gastric sleeve
- Basics to keep in mind before bariatric surgery
- Checklist for weight loss surgery
- Pre-bariatric surgery essentials
- How to get ready for weight loss surgery?
- Weight Loss Surgery Abroad
- Bariatric Surgery in Mexico
References
- “Who is a Candidate for Bariatric Surgery?” American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery
- “Is Weight Loss Surgery Right for You?” WebMD, 2017
