What You Should Know About Bariatric Surgery

Bariatric surgery is common in the United States. It improves both your physical appearance and general health. Even though you will look better after bariatric surgery, it isn’t a cosmetic procedure. Bariatric surgery consists of a few major procedures that help obese people lose weight where diet and exercise have failed. Unfortunately, two in three American adults are obese. Even though there are lots of medically-supervised programs that may help patients, they do not always work.

Bariatric surgery is not ideal for pregnant women or those who plan on getting pregnant in the future. It may not be recommended for patients with autoimmune diseases, cardiovascular disease, or a high risk of mental disorders. 

Keep reading to learn more about bariatric surgery.

  1.What Are the Benefits?

The main benefit of bariatric surgery is weight loss. If you are obese or have trouble losing weight with other methods, bariatric surgery is your best option. Studies suggest that most patients can maintain the results of the surgery long-term. According to the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery, it may help you reduce the risk of stroke, cancer, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and sleep apnea. You can improve the results of your procedure by observing a proper diet and exercising regularly.

The surgery can prolong your life. It is one of your best options for sustainable weight loss. Bariatric surgery is perfect if you have a BMI of 35-40 with weight-related medical issues or a BMI of 40 or higher. Even though there are different forms of bariatric surgery, they all target your digestive system. Therefore, your surgeon will check to ensure that you are healthy before administering the procedure. If you are approved, they will keep track of your health to identify potential challenges. Bariatric surgery is generally safe. Your doctor will use minimally invasive techniques to reduce the risk of complications and your recovery time.

    2. Are the Procedures Reversible?

In some instances, you may not be comfortable with the results of your procedure. You may wish to know if your procedure can be reversed. The answer depends on the type of bariatric surgery you choose. They are all different and you can find more info here. Gastric banding or lap-band, for example, is a reversible procedure. Many patients get the procedure reversed years after their operation. They may prefer a different weight-loss option. Gastric bypass is reversible too. However, laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy cannot be reversed.

   3.  How to Prepare for Bariatric Surgery

•   Emotional and Physical Concerns

If you plan on getting bariatric surgery, it would be wise to have all the relevant information beforehand. Even though your surgeon will tell you what you need to know, doing some research is important. The procedures can take a toll on you both physically and emotionally.

Even though it is safe, bariatric surgery requires just as much effort in preparation as other major surgeries. You will need to deal with some medication, time away from your regular activities, potential complications, and physical pain. After your surgery, you will have to deal with ongoing dietary restrictions.

Dealing with mental challenges can be just as bad as dealing with physical challenges. If you have been an emotional eater for a long time, you may have a hard time adjusting to your new lifestyle. Changing your lifestyle while you deal with physical challenges is something you need to prepare for

   .   Medication

You may have trouble managing your pain meds. After surgery, you may need up to six weeks to recover. You must prepare to taper off your medication. Quitting cold turkey is never a good idea. Speak with your surgeon about your medication, and they will help you set realistic expectations. They will advise on the best time to stop the medication. If you stop without their approval, you are likely to face severe complications.

You need to avoid medication like ibuprofen and NSAIDS as they can cause marginal ulcers. If you have been under pain meds, speak to your surgeon about them and they may suggest alternatives.

•  Support

Plan to have support after your procedure. Choose a team of your trusted friends and family to help you right before and after the surgery. Choose people that approve of your decision and want you to succeed. You will need help with household chores, childcare, and transportation. Emotional support is important as well. After surgery, you may have feelings of anxiety and self-doubt. Having someone to reassure you is always a good idea.

     4.The Recovery Process

Recovering from bariatric surgery takes a few weeks. However, recovering from your surgery is only the beginning. Your surgeon will give you tips to deal with physical symptoms like constipation, nausea, wound infection, and weakness. They will offer pain meds to alleviate the pain. The physical changes that you may experience after surgery include hair thinning or loss, saggy skin, and dry skin. Your body may have trouble processing calcium, iron, folate, vitamin D, and vitamin B12.

     5. Learning New Eating Habits

After the surgery, you will need to learn new eating habits. Avoid high-calorie drinks like sodas and focus on eating balanced meals. Your diet should be rich in healthy fats, protein, and fiber. Chew slowly and bite and eat half of your regular portions. Instead of eating three large meals, break them down into six smaller ones. Stop eating as soon as you start feeling full and try to drink eight cups of water every day. Eating too quickly or failing to chew thoroughly may cause vomiting.

While you should eat less, you may be at risk of developing eating disorders after your procedure. Since your appetite will be low, you may develop anorexia or bulimia.

A successful bariatric surgery is more than just a procedure. It is about making long-term changes to improve your health and lifestyle.

In conclusion, bariatric surgery helps both your physical appearance and health. It is ideal for obese patients who have trouble losing weight. You also need to set realistic expectations. After the surgery, you must be committed to making long-term lifestyle changes. You need to exercise and make dietary changes to sustain the results of your procedure.