For individuals struggling with obesity and its associated health risks, weight loss surgery presents an attractive solution. Weight loss surgery is a proven safe and effective option with significant benefits, but one that requires careful consideration, preparation and commitment as it may not be the right option for everyone.
Qualifications for weight loss surgery
In October 2022, the updated guidelines for weight loss surgery lowered the Body Mass Index (BMI) thresholds for candidacy. The new guidelines recommend that a person either with a BMI of 35 or higher, or a BMI over 30 coupled with an obesity-induced medical condition (such as high cholesterol, diabetes or sleep apnea), is a candidate for weight loss surgery. This update in the guidelines aims to treat more individuals with obesity-related health conditions, allowing them to live a longer, healthier and higher-quality life.
Weight loss surgery options
Weight loss surgeries fall into two broad categories: restrictive and malabsorptive. Restrictive procedures, like gastric sleeve surgery, limit the amount of food the stomach can hold, leading to earlier feelings of fullness. Malabsorptive surgeries, like gastric bypass, alter the digestive tract to bypass some nutrient absorption, further promoting weight loss.
A newer option, the duodenal switch, combines both categories of approaches. Technology has also evolved, with endoscopic, laparoscopic and robotic options minimizing the need for open surgery. The endoscopic options now present an incision-less procedure as an alternative to traditional surgery.
How surgeries impact patients
These surgeries work in several ways. They restrict food intake, decrease hunger hormones, promote feelings of fullness and alter gut bacteria composition. The result? Significant and durable long-term weight loss. For example, a patient weighing 270 pounds at 5’9″ could expect to lose 75-110 pounds within the first year after surgery (on average 10-15 pounds per month), with continued weight loss through the second year.
Lifestyle changes
Preparation is key. Before surgery, patients meet with dietitians, specialists in obesity medicine and psychologists specializing in obesity-related psychology to develop individualized plans for lifestyle adjustments. A balanced diet with adequate protein intake, fruits and vegetables is typically recommended. Vitamin and mineral intake are also monitored by our medical specialists. Lastly, we encourage all of our candidates for weight loss surgery to attend bi-monthly support group meetings. These meetings allow our candidates considering surgery an opportunity to discuss the process with other individuals who are going through or have gone through the process of weight loss surgery.
Some procedures restrict simple carbohydrates, like sugars, which can be a blessing for those with diabetes or sugar cravings, as overindulgence of sugar after a specific weight loss operation leads to unpleasant feelings. We also recommend all of our patients avoid alcohol for the first year after surgery, with gradual reintroduction allowed later.
Success rates and sustainability
Weight loss surgery has impressive success rates. Studies show long-term weight loss maintenance in up to 80% of patients. Factors like following dietary and exercise guidelines, attending support groups and maintaining regular follow-up appointments significantly impact outcomes, all of which we offer in our weight management program.
Seeing if weight loss surgery is right for you
At Endeavor Health, our team is dedicated to supporting bariatric patients on their weight-loss journey. We encourage you to take the first step to changing your life by exploring your options. Learn more about weight loss surgery and options by visiting our website or calling 847-570-1700.