Weight loss surgery has become increasingly popular in the last few years as people have become more aware of the health benefits associated with it. It is a major surgical procedure that can significantly reduce an individual’s overall body weight and can lead to improved quality of life. While there are many health risks associated with this type of surgery, the benefits provided by weight loss surgery can outweigh the risks for many individuals who are suffering from severe obesity.
Broadly speaking, there are two main types of weight loss surgery: restrictive and malabsorptive. The restrictive procedures limit the amount of food intake by partially or completely closing off certain parts of the stomach. This is done using staples, banding or a combination of both. These procedures reduce the amount of food that can be consumed, so the individual must reduce their caloric intake in order to eat the same amount they did before the surgery. The malabsorptive procedures cause malabsorption of food by bypassing different parts of the digestive tract. This allows fewer calories and nutrients to be absorbed, resulting in weight loss.
The most important factor to consider before undergoing weight loss surgery is whether or not it is medically appropriate for the individual. Generally, the ideal candidate for weight loss surgery should have a body mass index of 40 or above and/or be suffering from obesity-related complications such as diabetes or hypertension.
After the initial consultation with a qualified healthcare professional, potential candidates may be referred to a bariatric team, who will assess the individual’s medical, psychological and lifestyle factors in order to make sure the surgery is safe and effective. Once the assessment is completed, the patient is given instructions on how to prepare for the surgery and is then put on a special diet in order to reduce the risk of nutritional deficiencies and other complications.
The surgery itself is usually relatively short and is performed under general anaesthetic. The procedures involved depend on the type of weight loss surgery, but generally take between 1.5 and 3 hours. During the surgery, the surgeon will make adjustments to the stomach or intestines in order to reduce the absorption of calories and nutrients. Recovery times vary from individual to individual, but can be anywhere from a few weeks to a few months.
In addition to the surgical procedure, post-operative care is extremely important for successful weight loss. Patients should follow a strict diet in order to support their bodies after the surgery and should also exercise regularly to support their weight loss. Regular checkups are important to monitor the patient's progress and to make sure they are not suffering any long-term effects from the surgery.
Overall, weight loss surgery is an effective and life changing option for those suffering with severe obesity who have been unable to successfully lose weight through exercise and dieting. It is important to remember, however, that it is only suitable for very specific individuals and requires lifelong commitment in order to be successful.