What are your options - what are the risks
What is Surgical Intervention?
Any surgery relating to high levels of bodyfat is called "bariatric" - you will see this term used a lot.
The most common bariatric surgeries could be described as ‘reductive procedures’. Less space for food to go, so you feel full earlier.
Of these reductive procedures, Gastric Sleeve is the most popular given advancements in recent years.
"Gastric" simply refers to the stomach.
The last 10 years have seen HUGE advances in the safety, efficacy, and speed of recovery from surgery
The good: Modern surgery is safe, and highly effective and the level of discomfort is much lower than previous interventions. Lowers hunger by improving your hormone profile.
The bad: You are attending a hospital, which could be a scary prospect. You will need to adjust to your new capacity to eat
From the Dr. “There are no miracles, and you will need to adjust after the surgery. Weight loss surgery can bring about emotional and psychological changes, it is our goal to work with you to ensure success” Dr Jason Maani
What should I consider - is this for me?
Bariatric surgery is typically recommended for individuals with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 or higher
OR a BMI of 35 or higher with serious weight-related health problems like type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or sleep apnea.
Sleeve surgery is for the majority of high BMI people, a Bypass is used when dramatic weight loss is needed for health reasons.
The biggest enemy is time
Every time you gain and lose weight, it gets harder.
Only about 1% of persons with a body mass index over 30 maintain weight loss long term.
Emerging research suggests that hormonal factors make long term weight reduction - without medical intervention, very very difficult. Much like a person with an injured arm or leg, once your hormonal profile is ‘injured’ you may need medical help to keep weight off long term.
“Surgery has come a long way, but also our understanding of the emotional and physiological factors in body weight”
We’ve grown increasingly tired of the ‘blame’ in weight gain. Often genetic, environmental and economic factors FAR outweigh a personal decision. We as a society have seen obesity be the number one disease in many first world countries. This is a systemic issue, not a will power issue.
Why is weight so easy to gain and so hard to lose?
If you are hungry when logically you understand your body does not need calories (or are gaining weight and feel like you are barely eating) - you are very likely to have hormonal issues.
When you lose weight, your body often reduces the number of calories it burns at rest (resting metabolic rate or RMR). This is a natural response to conserve energy. Age further decreases your metabolism.
A slow metabolism + Leptin resistance = difficult to keep weight off and easy to gain weight
Sleeve and Bypass surgery both have large impacts on lowering your ongoing hunger (changing Leptin Resistance and Ghrelin).
Weight loss for lifestyle changes or medication often do not have the desired effect on hormones, often with people having more hunger or cravings once they enter ‘maintenance’.
The hormonal impact of being previously obese is the reason most people gain weight back, they simply cannot tell when they are full.
It’s a big step. We understand.
There is a time to be hopeful, and there is a time to be honest. You can reflect on what life will look like if you make a change or if you keep things as they are.
Each procedure has its own advantages, disadvantages.
The most important factor is to be honest with yourself and understand if you need to make a big step to change your future.
The Matters to Consider
Bariatric surgery is a significant life-altering procedure, and it's crucial to thoroughly consider all aspects before making a decision. Here's a comprehensive overview of factors to think about:
1. Medical Evaluation and Eligibility:
We will assess your overall health to determine if you're a suitable candidate. Expect to undergo various medical tests, including blood work, cardiac evaluation, and possibly sleep studies. These tests ensure you're healthy enough for surgery and to identify any potential risks.
2. Understanding the Procedures:
Our goal is to answer every question you have. We want to ensure you feel safe. We want to ensure your success. Write down any questions, issues or risks you wish to discuss, and bring your partner, parent or friend if it helps. We know it’s a big step.
3. Lifestyle Changes:
Dietary Changes:
Bariatric surgery requires significant and lifelong changes to your eating habits. You'll need to follow a strict diet, starting with liquids and gradually progressing to solid foods. Portion control and nutrient-dense foods are essential.
Exercise:
Regular physical activity is crucial for long-term weight loss and overall health after surgery.
Emotional and Psychological Factors:
Weight loss surgery can bring about emotional and psychological changes. Consider seeking support from a therapist or support group to navigate these changes.
4. Risks and Complications:
Surgical Risks: Like any surgery, bariatric surgery carries risks. We’ll help educate you on these, and the steps to lower risk as much as possible.
Long-Term: Potential long-term complications include nutritional deficiencies, which means you need to commit to eat a diet rich in nutrients post surgery.
5. Long-Term Commitment:
Follow-Up Care: Regular follow-up appointments with your surgeon and healthcare team are essential for monitoring your progress and addressing any issues.
Nutritional Supplements: Lifelong vitamin and mineral supplementation is typically required to prevent nutritional deficiencies.
Support System: Having a strong support system of family, friends, or support groups can greatly aid in your long-term success.
6. Practical Considerations:
Cost and Insurance Coverage: Bariatric surgery has costs, so it's essential to understand your insurance coverage and any out-of-pocket costs.
Recovery Time: Plan for adequate recovery time after surgery, which may involve several weeks off work.
Changes in Relationships: Weight loss can affect your relationships, so open communication with loved ones is important.