June 3, 2019
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that more than one-third of American adults are obese, with many having no choice but to resort to weight loss surgery surgery. Formally called Bariatric surgery, weight loss surgery refers to various surgical procedures that an obese individual can undergo to get back in shape and improve their help. Surprisingly, there are many myths and misconceptions about weight-loss surgery that demotivate people from taking the life-changing decision. So, to clear the smokescreen, we correct some common misconceptions about weight-loss surgery. Read on.
1. There’s only one type of weight-loss surgery.
There are many types of weight loss surgeries. Most types of bariatric surgery help people lose weight by either restricting the amount of food they can eat or reducing the number of calories the body can absorb. A few common types of weight-loss surgeries are :
Gastric Band : A gastric band is a band that’s placed around the stomach, creating a small pouch towards the top.
Gastric Bypass : A gastric bypass is where surgical staples are used to create a small pouch at the top of the stomach.
Sleeve Gastrectomy : A sleeve gastrectomy is where a large part of the stomach is removed so it’s much smaller than it was before.
Duodenal Switch: A combination of a sleeve gastrectomy and gastric bypass, this procedure allows for the most effective and durable weight loss.
2. Weight-loss surgery is highly risky.
Though every surgery involves certain risks, most bariatric surgeries aren’t as risky as the disorder they treat. The risks of living with obesity, such as increased risk of cancer, heart diseases, and diabetes, are much graver than those of weight loss surgeries. Recent innovations in surgical methods also mean that many weight loss surgeries require shorter recovery times and are less invasive than what they used to be.
3. Weight loss surgery has a temporary effect.
Though about 50 percent of weight-loss surgery patients gain a small amount of weight back after the procedure, the overall weight loss is always quite significant. Furthermore, though patients may not always lose the full amount of their excess body weight, many patients report a notable improvement in their quality of life.
4. You won’t be able to take in enough nutrients.
A common misconception is that shrinking the size of someone’s stomach through weight-loss surgery means that they will be malnourished for the rest of their lives. This is mostly incorrect, as patients who had certain weight loss surgeries may experience a decreased ability to absorb nutrients; it is easily remedied with dietary supplements. Following a post-surgery diet and planning meals usually translate into a notable improvement in an individual’s overall health.
Wrap Up
When planning for a weight-loss surgery, it is important to consult an experienced surgeon with a proven track record. If you are looking for a bariatric expert in Fort Worth or Dallas, the search ends at DFW Bariatrics and General Surgery. Our team comprises experienced surgeons specialized in performing various types of minimally-invasive weight loss procedures. To learn more about non-surgical and surgical weight loss options, simply call 469-620-0222 or fill out our contact form. You can also schedule an appointment to consult one of our experts.