Bariatric surgery

There are multiple different reasons to seek out a gastric bypass procedure. Some people need to manage chronic obesity, which can lead to increased risk of high blood pressure and heart failure, while others have stomach or sleep issues that need deeper medical attention. While a healthy diet and routine exercise is recommended for most people of different backgrounds and needs, medical intervention can be necessary for more extreme issues. If you or a loved one have considered meeting with bariatric surgeons, look below to learn more about weight loss in America and whether or not gastric bypass surgery would be helpful.

Why Should I Manage My Weight?

While weight loss can be achieved through diet plans and supplements, some weight is difficult to keep off in the long-term. It’s estimated two out of three adults in America are overweight, while one out of three on average are considered obese. One out of 20 American adults have chronic obesity, which is a health issue that can lead to physical and emotional problems down the road if not treated. Obesity greatly increases the risk of diabetes as well as harmful conditions such as heart disease, high blood pressure and gallstones.

How Does Gastric Bypass Surgery Work?

Gastric bypass surgery is used when keeping off excess weight isn’t possible with conventional methods. It involves rearranging the small intestine and stomach to physically manage the food you eat. A meta-analysis found that all bariatric procedures lead to at least a 60% loss of weight, with successful weight loss being arbitrarily defined as losing equal or greater than 50% of excess fat. Bariatric surgery not only reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease and high blood pressure, it’s also been known to alleviate depression and sleep apnea. Meeting with a bariatric doctor is the first step toward determining whether or not you qualify for a surgical procedure.

What Should I Expect?

If you are considering a gastric bypass procedure, it’s essential to meet with your regular doctor and see if you meet standard qualifications. Certain habits, such as smoking, can increase the risks of complications during and after surgery. Bariatric surgeons will not only help you lose weight, they will help you keep it off — it’s estimated half of all patients may regain a small amount of weight two years after surgery, with the other half successfully maintaining in the long term. Meet with your doctor today and see what a gastric bypass procedure can do for you.