Are you curious about Bariatric Surgery? Let us answer some frequently asked questions about this potentially life-changing decision!
Bariatric surgery is a term used to describe the surgical procedures that make adjustments to the digestive system. Through surgery, the majority of patients who have felt defeated in the past can lose excess weight and manage their weight loss successfully. Bariatric surgeries can reduce the size of the stomach, diminish the body’s nutrient absorption, alter digestive hormone production, and a combination of all three approaches. Bariatric surgery is a viable option when past attempts to diet and exercise have not produced results and when obesity-related health issues have become a serious cause for concern.
Bariatric Surgery FAQ’s:
Who is a candidate for bariatric surgery?
Candidates for bariatric surgery usually have a body mass index of 40 or higher. Candidates with a BMI of 35 to 40 can also qualify, but most likely have obesity-related health issues in addition to a high BMI.1 These health issues commonly include conditions such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, sleep apnea, and more.
How much does bariatric surgery normally cost?
The cost of a weight loss procedure varies depending on the specific surgery decided upon. Due to the life-threatening nature of obesity, most insurance companies cover some, if not the bulk, of surgery and its related medical costs.
What is recommended diet-wise immediately after bariatric surgery?
Following surgery, patients will be placed on a liquid diet so that the digestive system can make necessary adjustments. Once they are able to tolerate soft foods, the patient's diet will incorporate softer foods and continue to progress with smaller portions of regular food as the ultimate goal.
Are there specific foods patients need to eat or need to avoid eating?
Protein promotes a healthy metabolism and is crucial to the short-term and long-term healing process. Protein should be the first thing eaten at each meal and protein supplements may be needed if the patient is unable to consume an adequate amount of protein. It is also important to limit refined carbohydrates and foods high in sugar following weight loss surgery.
How much weight can patients expect to lose after bariatric surgery?
The majority of patients lose at least 50% of their excess weight in the first year. ² Most patients are able to maintain this weight loss for a minimum of five years. Weight loss success is largely dependent on the patient's commitment to post-surgery lifestyle changes.
When can patients begin to exercise after bariatric surgery?
Most patients can and should begin exercising right away. With fewer medical issues post-surgery, many patients will be able to enjoy exercise in a way that they previously could never have imagined. Exercising and maintaining a healthy lifestyle improves weight loss results and in turn overall health and well-being.
Are there patients who should not have bariatric surgery?
Certain psychiatric and/or medical conditions can be exacerbated due to weight loss surgery. It is important to disclose all psychiatric and/or medical history to the healthcare care team prior to undergoing bariatric surgery.
If you or your loved one is considering bariatric surgery, reach out to Dr. Vohra and his team of experts at New York Bariatrics today! If you have questions, we have answers!
Dr. Rajeev Vohra is a board-certified Fellow of the American College of Surgeons. He specializes in laparoscopic and bariatric procedures and has successfully performed more than 10,000 surgeries over his 30+ year career. Dr. Vohra has dedicated his career to providing patients in New York with the highest quality and most compassionate care.
