We all know that our lifestyle choices influence our health. Without an active and healthy lifestyle, our bodies experience various diseases that affect our daily activities and overall quality of life. One of the most debilitating disorders that could be caused by poor lifestyle habits is obesity.
Obesity is a complex disorder that is characterized by excess or over accumulation of fat in the body. It can be caused by an unhealthy lifestyle or as a result of other disorders such as hypothyroidism, insulin resistance, polycystic ovary syndrome, and Cushing’s syndrome.
In addition, excessive fat puts the individual at risk of several other illnesses such as diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular diseases.
According to the latest statistics from the World Health Organization, worldwide obesity has almost tripled since 1975. This means two in three adults are obese or overweight. In fact, obesity has reached epidemic proportions with more than 2 million people dying each year because of the condition- that’s more than the deaths attributed to diabetes which stands at 1.6 million estimated mortalities annually.
Addressing Obesity
Exercise and changes in lifestyle habits are effective ways in battling obesity, as is bariatric surgery or weight loss surgery. Through the technological innovations in medical technology, finding ways to shed excessive weight is much easier, not to mention a lot more convenient.
With the advancement in medical care, Bariatric Surgery has become a routine procedure and can be done with a very low complication rate. In today’s post, our weight loss surgery experts at International Modern Hospital are here to provide a brief overview on the common types of bariatric procedures, including what it takes to be a good candidate for surgery and some of its benefits other than weight loss.
Common Bariatric Procedures
Simply put, bariatric surgery involves making changes to a patient’s digestive system with the goal of losing weight by reducing the size of the stomach and altering the absorption from the gut. This procedure is done when other weight loss interventions such as exercise or diet have proven to be ineffective. The most common procedures include the following:
Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy
Gastric sleeve surgery is characterized by the removal of 80% of the stomach, leaving the remaining 20% in the form of a narrow tube. This restricts the amount of food you can take and also reduces the production of your hunger hormone. This makes the individual feel full faster while also effectively reducing food intake. Through this procedure, effective and long term weight loss can be made possible. Typically the individual sheds 40 to 60% of their excess body weight. 20-40 kilograms or more, depending on their existing weight loss program for the first two years.
Laparoscopic Gastric Bypass
Commonly known in the medical world as “Roux-en-Y gastric bypass” (RYGB), this bariatric surgery has been considered as the “gold standard” by several medical institutions including the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS). It is done in patients who have a BMI over 50.
This surgery involves the use of a laparoscope or a medical device with a small camera, inserted to the body via small incisions on the abdomen. In the operation, the surgeon separates the top portion of the stomach by stapling it to create a small pouch which restricts the patient’s food intake. The jejunum, a portion in the small intestine is subsequently attached to the smaller part of the stomach.
Revisional Bariatric/ Weight Loss Surgery
When the targeted weight loss is not achieved or the surgery results in undesirable side effects, Revisional Bariatric or Weight Loss Surgery is done. This surgery involves the modification, alteration or simply a revision of a previously performed bariatric operation with an aim to improve the effects of the earlier procedure. A trained panel of experts review the patient and decide whether the surgery can be done safely.
What Makes An Individual A Good Candidate For Surgery?
People who have a BMI or body mass index of 35 or higher can be a candidate for bariatric surgery especially if the patient is experiencing life-threatening disease such as type 2 diabetes . Patients commonly go through extensive assessments and examinations to determine if they are fit for weight loss surgery.
There are also certain other factors that can influence the patient’s qualification to undergo weight loss surgery. This can include the following:
- Weight history and nutrition
- Psychological health
- Mental condition
- Age
- Existing medical condition/s
In addition, there are also pre-surgical requirements that individuals need to meet such as:
- Dietary restrictions
- Lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking
- Supervised physical activity or exercise
Also see : How To Prepare For A Bariatric Surgery
Bariatric surgery is not a miracle solution, you also have to work hard and stay motivated and disciplined throughout your journey to weight loss. Post-surgical aftercare is also as important as preparing before surgery. Therefore it is crucial to follow your physician’s instructions to reap the best results. It is best to consult your medical provider if you are considering weight loss surgery and to determine if you are a right candidate.
Benefits Of Weight Loss Surgery
The purpose of Bariatric surgery goes beyond cosmetic results. The individual benefits in the long run due to reduced cardiovascular and neurological ailments. Bariatric surgery can have a great impact in the quality of life for an individual. It can improve how they conduct their daily activities and relationship with the people around them. Let us go over them one by one below.
Renewed Confidence And Self Esteem
After your surgery and reduction of weight, you’ll regain your self confidence and self esteem. You’ll start to feel good about yourself and begin to recognize your self-worth.
Better Relationships
Not only will you learn to recognize the importance of self-care through a healthy diet, but you’ll also form a better relationship with yourself. In this way, you can have better and healthier relationships with the people around you.
Improved Cardiovascular Health
Your heart health will greatly benefit from a reduction in excess weight. Patients will experience a lesser risk of developing cardiovascular disorders. Blood sugar and cholesterol levels effectively return to normal, improving your overall well being.
Relief From Other Medical Conditions
With weight loss surgery, you can easily relieve yourself from other debilitating conditions including sleep apnea, hypertension, and diabetes. With a healthier body, you’ll gain a stronger immune system making you resistant to other diseases.
Healthier Diet And Lifestyle Choices
After your surgery, it is necessary for you to apply significant changes into your diet and lifestyle. The individual should be able to maintain the new diet and lifestyle for sustained health.
Better Quality Of Life
Overall, through bariatric surgery, you’ll be able to have a better quality of life. You’ll be able to make healthier choices when it comes to your activities and food intake.
Becoming An Advocate
One of the greatest benefits of weight loss surgery is becoming an advocate for better health. Having an opportunity to share your journey to people suffering from obesity will inspire them to take action.
We at the International Modern Hospital would always prefer individuals sincerely try to lose weight without resorting to surgery. Bariatric surgery is for those who are unable to do so in spite of their best efforts.
Take the first step to fitness and improve wellbeing by reaching out to our experts today.