You must have heard about bariatric surgery, but are you aware of the positives that it offers? Read thoroughly to learn about the significant health benefits!
Bariatric surgery is often considered to be a life-changing procedure for many, especially for those who are considering a transformative path toward the management of weight and overall improvement of health. The surgery offers a plethora of positive effects and life-altering impacts on individuals struggling to cope with obesity. Let’s explore the various benefits of surgery in detail!
What Is Bariatric Surgery?
Bariatric surgery is a procedure of surgery that assists individuals with obesity to achieve sustainable and significant weight loss. Therefore it is also referred to by many as weight loss surgery.
This kind of surgery is specifically recommended for individuals with a BMI (Body Mass Index) of 35 and above or individuals suffering from obesity-related health conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes.
However, this is not a standalone weight loss solution but one that requires lifelong commitment towards dietary changes, ongoing follow-ups at least for 6 months as regular physical activity. Without this, one will not be able to achieve optimal outcomes and maintain a healthy body weight post-surgery.
How Bariatric Surgery Works?
As it is purely a surgical procedure, it follows certain mechanisms, which are described below in detail.
Restriction On Intake:
The surgery creates a physical restriction on the total amount of food that can be taken. In the case of a gastric sleeve or gastric bypass, a portion of the stomach is removed through surgery. This leaves a smaller pouch that can hold only a restricted amount of food. This reduced stomach capacity leads to a feeling of fullness in individuals, even with smaller food portions.
What Are The Positives Of Bariatric Surgery?
Bariatric surgery comes with a plethora of positive outcomes for people with obesity. Although the main effect encompasses weight loss, surgery can also incur profound effects on various other aspects of the life of an individual. Some of the key positives of the surgery are explained below in detail.
Sustainable and Significant Weight Loss:
Bariatric surgery helps individuals with obesity to ensure substantial weight loss. This generally results in the reduction of excess body weight by a considerable percentage. Therefore not only improving physical appearance but also enhancing overall health and quality of life.
Improvement In Health Conditions Related to Obesity:
The surgery is known for leading to significant improvements in obesity-related health issues. The most common health concerns related to obesity are high blood pressure, diabetes, joint problems, sleep apnea, and high cholesterol. Bariatric surgery, by addressing obesity, positively impacts all these conditions, thereby reducing the requirement for medications and improving quality of life.
Improved Metabolic Health:
The surgery can also improve the parameters of metabolism, like insulin resistance, lipid profiles, and blood sugar levels. It may lead to better glycemic control for individuals with obesity issues and diabetes and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases significantly.
Enhanced Quality Of Life:
Bariatric surgery enhances the quality of life of people as they can experience reduced physical limitations, enhanced mobility, and increased energy levels. Thus they can now engage in activities that previously seemed challenging or impossible as a result of excess weight.
Psychological Benefits:
One can also incur positive effects on mental health through surgery. Psychological well-being is crucial for leading a quality life. By reducing excess body weight, individuals manage to experience improved self-esteem, self-confidence as well as body image for being successful in achieving weight loss goals. The surgery may also decrease bouts of anxiety and depression.
Long-Term Weight Management:
As the surgery requires the establishment of new eating habits and following a healthier lifestyle, it provides a foundation for the management of weight in the long run. By preventing weight gain, individuals can maintain their body weight and ensure a healthy BMI.
Enhanced Life Expectancy:
Research has found that bariatric surgery is associated with a reduced risk of premature death. This is because it addresses obesity and, along with it, all the issues that are associated with it.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, it is essential to point out that the positive outcomes of bariatric surgery can vary from one individual to another. The success rate depends on factors such as pre-surgery health conditions, changes in ongoing lifestyle and adherence to the guidelines provided by the healthcare professional post-surgery.
About Author
Dr Abdulsalam Al Taie, who is a specialist bariatric surgeon at Al Taie Center, Dubai and Abu Dhabi has highlighted the positive aspects of bariatric surgery and how it is beneficial for you. The detailed blog emphasises the pros you can expect after going for a weight loss surgery that suits your body the best.
