More than half the world’s population want to lose weight. For some people, their weight is a serious health hazard. For others, it’s about beauty, looks, and perception. In the tussle between the two, it often becomes impossible to decide whether you really qualify for a weight loss surgery, particularly since there are so many different kinds of procedures out there. However, it is necessary to make an informed decision about weight loss surgery because it is, after all, a very serious undertaking.
These days, primarily two kinds of weight loss surgeries exist:
Restrictive surgery: In this surgery, the surgeon makes the stomach smaller by closing or removing a section of it. In this way, the capacity of the stomach becomes smaller and patients feel full faster.
The following are the types of Restrictive Procedures:
- Roux-en-Y (RNY) Gastric Bypass (short limb or proximal)
- Lap Band Surgery or Adjustable Gastric Banding (AGB)
- Gastroplasty
- Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy
Malabsorptive surgery: In this case, digestion is routed to the small intestine. The aim is to limit the amount of food that can be ingested and absorbed before the rest is passed out.
Although weight loss surgery has a high success rate, there are risks involved. Also, certain side effects are associated with certain kinds of weight loss surgeries. There may be diet restrictions. In many cases, women are asked not to become pregnant right after surgery.
Should you or shouldn’t you opt for weight loss surgery?
That is basically a personal decision that must be taken with the help of a qualified doctor. However, here are a few pointers that may help you decide whether you are a candidate for weight loss surgery.
- Any person who has a BMI (Body Mass Index) of 40 or above is a candidate for weight loss surgery simply because they are severely obese. So, men who are 100 pounds overweight and women who are approximately 80 pounds overweight could consider the surgery as their weight issues could have a dangerous impact on their health.
- Weight loss surgery may also be an option for people with a BMI between 35 and 40 if they suffer from related health issues like sleep apnea, diabetes or cardiovascular complications. In such cases, risks arising from the health condition may necessitate the surgery.
- Often, patients who have struggled with weight loss programs many times and failed, are allowed to opt for weight loss surgery provided they can offer proof of the struggles. Such patients may also need a psychological evaluation before the surgery.
Some of the questions you need to answer when you prepare yourself for weight loss surgery include:
- Do you have sufficient information about the surgery and its side effects?
- Do you want to lose weight to improve health?
- Do you have a fair idea of lifestyle changes you will need to make post surgery?
- Do you have a clear idea of any diet restrictions associated with the surgery?
- Do you understand that there is the off chance that the surgery may not really help you lose weight?
- Can you make a commitment to medical follow-ups throughout your life?
If the answers to these questions are clear in your mind and you qualify for the surgery, there is no reason not to opt for it.
Nidhi Multispeciality Hospital, A leader in Weight Loss Surgery in Ahmedabad. The Best Hospital in Ahmedabad which provides world-class treatment.