Did you know that severe obesity can reduce a person’s lifespan by up to 14 years? And for those struggling to lose weight and are concerned about long-term health outcomes, weight loss surgery may be one treatment option worth discussing with healthcare providers. (1)
A study suggests that weight loss surgery has been shown to decrease mortality risk and obesity-related heart complications by approximately 40%. However, taking this step isn’t easy for anyone. It’s a significant decision that comes with questions, concerns, and maybe even some confusion. That’s completely normal. After all, it’s not like obesity surgery is something that’s talked about every day. (2)
This article aims to cut through the myths, highlight the facts, and give you a realistic picture of what to expect when considering weight loss surgery. Read on.
Obesity Surgery: The Basics
Obesity surgery, also called bariatric or weight-loss surgery, is designed to help you lose weight by altering your digestive system. However, it isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. It includes several weight management solutions such as gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, SADI, and gastric banding. Each works differently: some reduce stomach size, others reroute parts of the intestines, and a few combine both approaches.
Laparoscopic surgery, including gastric sleeve, bypass, hernia repair, and gallbladder removal performed by a surgeonSeparate Myths From Facts
One of the reasons some patients are hesitant about having obesity surgery is because of the persistent myths surrounding the subject. And these myths, when not straightened out, can cloud your judgment.
Here are the common myths and their factual counterparts to help set the record straight:
Myth 1: “Surgery is the easy way out.”
Truth: This couldn’t be further from the truth! You see, obesity surgery is just a tool. It’s not a magic fix wherein you get out of the operating room with a fit and slim body. The success of your weight loss surgery will still require lifelong changes to your diet, exercise, and lifestyle habits. Don’t worry, though, as you’ll be working closely with a team of dietitians, psychologists, and surgeons to build sustainable routines specifically for you.
Myth 2: “It’s only for people who are ‘extremely obese.’”
Truth: Although BMI plays a role, eligibility isn’t just about weight. For instance, if you have health complications linked to obesity (even with a lower BMI), surgery might still be an option for you. So, before jumping to the conclusion that you’re not qualified for obesity surgery, it’s best to book an appointment with your chosen healthcare provider first so they can conduct a proper diagnosis.
Myth 3: “Surgery is riskier than living with obesity.”
Truth: All surgeries carry risks, but thankfully, modern techniques have made these procedures safer than ever. Complications are rare, and for many, the long-term benefits, like reversing diabetes or reducing heart disease risk, simply far outweigh the risks.
Myth 4: “You’ll never enjoy food again.”
Truth: Yes, you’ll be required to adjust your eating habits, but that doesn’t necessarily mean saying goodbye to your favorite dishes. Post-surgery weight loss diets primarily focus on nutrient-dense foods and smaller portions. Basically, you can still return to eating most foods, but only in smaller portions and healthier ones. Over time, you’ll develop a healthier relationship with food.
Myth 5: “You’ll definitely regain all the weight eventually.”
Truth: Many people believe that obesity surgery only provides temporary results, with patients eventually regaining all lost weight or even more. However, research contradicts this misconception. Clinical data shows that more than 90% of individuals who undergo weight loss procedures maintain substantial weight loss long-term. The key? It’s embracing healthier habits afterwards. (3)
When patients follow their care team’s advice and make sustainable changes to how they eat and move, the results really do last.
Separating the facts from common misconceptions can help you decide more wisely about whether obesity surgery might be right for your health journey. If you have more concerns other than these myths, don’t hesitate to consult with experienced specialists.
What To Expect?
Choosing obesity surgery can be a life-changing decision, and knowing what to expect ahead can help ease your uncertainties. Although every patient’s experience will be unique, there are common steps, challenges, and milestones to anticipate.
Here’s a detailed look at what the process typically involves:
Pre-Surgery Preparation
Before surgery, you’ll go through a comprehensive preparation process. First, you’ll meet up with surgeons, dietitians, and psychologists to assess your readiness, both physically and mentally. You’ll also be required to complete some medical tests to check for underlying conditions.
The overall preparation phase might take several weeks or months, but it’s crucial for long-term success.
The Surgery Day
On surgery day, you’ll be admitted to the hospital for final checks before your procedure. Most obesity surgeries today are done laparoscopically (through small incisions) under general anesthesia and typically take 1 to 4 hours, depending on the type of surgery. (4)
After waking up, you might feel some discomfort, but pain medication will help. Hospital stays usually range from 1-3 days, depending on your procedure and recovery progress.
The Recovery Phase
The weeks following surgery will focus on healing and adaptation. Your diet starts with liquids and slowly works up to real food again. It can be frustratingly slow, but worth it to avoid complications. You’ll also be encouraged to take short walks to boost circulation.
Overall, from pre-surgery counseling to post-operative care, you’ll have expert guidance to help you achieve lasting results and improved health.
Key Takeaway
Obesity surgery is a powerful tool, but its success depends on the partnership between the patient, medical team, and support network. By understanding the process, separating the myths from facts, and embracing the work, you’ll be better prepared to decide if this path is right for you.
Just remember, obesity surgery isn’t just about losing weight; it’s about gaining a healthier, more vibrant life.
References:
- “Life Expectancy for People with Class 3 Obesity”, Source: https://www.healthline.com/health/obesity/class-3-obesity-life-expectancy
- “Weight-Loss Surgery Associated with 40% Reduction in Risk of Death and Heart Complications in Patients with Diabetes and Obesity, Study Shows”, Source: https://newsroom.clevelandclinic.org/2019/09/02/weight-loss-surgery-associated-with-40-reduction-in-risk-of-death-and-heart-complications-in-patients-with-diabetes-and-obesity-study-shows
- “5 Reasons to Consider Bariatric Weight Loss Surgery”, Source: https://www.medstarhealth.org/blog/why-consider-bariatric-surgery
- “How weight loss surgery is done”, Source: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/weight-loss-surgery/how-its-done/