Choosing Bariatric Surgery

More than just surgery, bariatric surgery is truly a lifestyle changing decision because it is a proven weight loss treatment solution. And while surgery is not without risks, bariatric surgery has key benefits. It’s important to consider each risk and benefit in making your decision.

Here are a few benefits of bariatric surgery:

Long-Term Weight Loss
Better lifestyle opportunities
Less dependency on prescription drugs
Improved job or career prospects
Increased energy level
Greater confidence
Improved social life

Prior to surgery, you will complete medical, nutritional, and psychological evaluations. Your bariatric surgeon will discuss the benefits and risks of the different surgical procedures, and together you will choose the most appropriate surgery for you. Once you and your surgeon have agreed upon a procedure, your next step will be to set a date.

Weight loss surgery is major surgery. Although most patients enjoy an improvement in obesity-related health conditions (such as mobility, self-image and self-esteem) after the successful results of weight loss surgery, these results should not be the overriding motivation for having the procedure. The goal is to live better, healthier and longer.

It is important to remember that there are no ironclad guarantees in any kind of medicine or surgery. There can be unexpected outcomes in even the simplest procedures. What can be said, however, is that weight loss surgery will only succeed when the patient makes a lifelong commitment. Some of the challenges facing a person after weight loss surgery can be unexpected. Lifestyle changes can strain relationships within families and between married couples. To help patients achieve their goals and deal with the changes surgery and weight loss can bring, most bariatric surgeons offer follow-up care that includes support groups, dieticians and other forms of continuing education.