Weight Loss Surgery
Several factors impact the effectiveness of weight loss surgery, also known as bariatric surgery. Actual weight loss results are dependent upon the surgical procedure selected and the patient’s:
- Age
- Weight before surgery
- Overall health
- Ability to exercise regularly
- Commitment to dietary guidelines and follow-up care
- Motivation
- Support of friends and family
Weight loss surgery is generally considered successful when the patient achieves a loss of 50 percent or more of their excess body weight, then maintains that weight for at least five years. Results can vary depending on the surgeon and the type of bariatric procedure selected.
Clinical studies have demonstrated that most patients lose weight rapidly in the first 18 to 24 months following the surgery. Patients may lose 30 to 50 percent of their excess weight in the first six months alone, and 77 percent of excess weight within the first year. Further studies show that patients can maintain 50 to 60 percent loss of excess weight even 10 to 14 years later.
A patient with a higher BMI typically will lose more total weight, while a patient with a lower BMI will lose a higher percentage of their excess weight and are more prone to attaining their ideal body weight. Those with Type 2 Diabetes typically lose less excess body weight than those without Type 2 Diabetes.
The effectiveness of bariatric surgery upon obesity-related health conditions is apparent; surgery has been found to improve and control many of the conditions. A study of 500 patients recorded that 96 percent of certain associated health conditions studied (back pain, sleep apnea, high blood pressure, diabetes and depression) were improved or resolved. In some instances, patients had no need for continuing medication for certain ailments, such as Type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure.
Considering your Surgery Options
The following are various weight loss surgery options you and your surgeon may consider, including a brief description of the procedures, advantages and risks of each.
Surgery - Are there Risks?
Although following surgery most patients benefit from an improvement in obesity-related health conditions, such as mobility, self-image and self-esteem, the end goal is to live a healthier and longer life. To accomplish this, patients need to commit themselves to a lifetime of follow-up care. Following all of the doctor’s recommendations is essential or health risks will continue.
Weight loss surgery is major surgery. As with any procedure, weight loss surgery may present risks. Many of those risks are discussed in the Surgery Options section of this site, but not all. Some extremely rare complications are not discussed.
This makes it all the more important to talk with your surgeon about specific risks based upon your existing conditions and the weight loss procedure decided upon.
Additional Information:
The decision to undergo surgery, or not, may take several visits to your surgeon’s office. It is important that your decision-making process is thorough and that you are comfortable with your decision, not just with the chosen procedure, but also with necessary follow-up care to ensure the best results.