Achieving a Healthier Life The Positive Effect of Bariatric Surgery on Obesity
Obesity is the disease of the modern age. Combined with increased stress, decreased mobility, and poor eating habits, they become the top three causes of illness and death in contemporary life. Obesity causes a negative body image and facilitates the onset of chronic diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular disorders, and even some types of cancer.
Bariatric surgery (slimming surgery) includes various procedures applied to people with obesity problems. Weight loss is primarily achieved by reducing the size of the stomach with a gastric band (sleeve gastrectomy) or removing part of the stomach (biliopancreatic diversal with duodenal switch). It can also be performed by directing the small intestine into a small stomach pouch (gastric bypass surgery).
Long-term studies show that these procedures can provide significant weight loss, relief from diabetes, improvement in cardiovascular risk factors, and reductions in death rates from 40% to 23% in the long term.
Benefits of Bariatric Surgery
Weight Loss: Bariatric surgery can lead to significant weight loss, helping individuals achieve and maintain healthier body weight.
Improvement in Obesity-related Health Conditions: Bariatric surgery has been shown to improve or resolve many obesity-related health conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, and joint problems.
Enhanced Quality of Life: Weight loss resulting from bariatric surgery can improve an individual’s overall quality of life, including physical functioning, self-esteem, and psychological well-being.
Long-term Maintenance of Weight Loss: Bariatric surgery can provide long-term weight loss if individuals adhere to recommended dietary and lifestyle changes following the procedure.
Who is it Intended For?
Bariatric surgery is recommended for obese people with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 and above, and people with a BMI of 35 and above and those with serious health problems such as diabetes. However, research is increasingly suggesting that those with a BMI 35 to 40 without other medical conditions may also benefit greatly, and this is also true for people with a BMI of 30 to 35 who have other major medical conditions.
Important Points & Adverse Effects
Complication rates and types associated with bariatric surgeries are generally the same as for any abdominal surgery. However, complications tend to be higher for morbidly obese patients. Patients must fully comply with their surgeon’s and physician’s instructions following the surgery as well as any pre-existing conditions, such as medication adjustments of the diabetes or other chronic diseases. In addition, nutritional habits should be changed in accordance with the anatomy of the new gastrointestinal tract. Nutritional arrangements and eating frequencies will differ according to the techniques used, and will be discussed after the operation is planned and the techniques are determined.
Bariatric surgery is a life-changing option for those struggling with obesity and its associated health problems. Through significant weight loss and improved overall health, individuals can achieve a positive transformation and embrace a better quality of life. If you are considering bariatric surgery, consult our experienced healthcare professionals who can guide you toward a healthier and happier future.
