Debunking Myths About Weight Loss Surgery
Understanding weight loss surgery and its purpose
Weight loss surgery, also termed bariatric surgery in Dubai, serves as a transformative option for those struggling with obesity when methods such as diet and exercise have failed. This type of surgery is not a quick fix or a shortcut; instead, it’s a powerful tool to address severe weight-related health issues, enhancing overall quality of life.
In a world filled with weight loss myths that promise quick results, bariatric surgery offers a scientifically backed solution by altering the digestive system to limit food intake. It’s often pursued when the risks of obesity far outweigh the challenges of the procedure, empowering individuals to achieve long-term weight loss and improve health outcomes.
Weight loss surgery types
There are several weight loss surgery types, each with unique approaches to facilitating significant weight loss and improving overall health. Here are the leading weight loss surgery types:
- Gastric Bypass (Roux-en-Y): Often termed as the “Gold Standard” of bariatric surgery, this procedure involves making a small pouch at the top of the stomach followed by connecting it to the small intestine directly, bypassing a large part of the stomach , duodenum and a portion (variable) of the small intestine. This not only restricts food intake but also reduces nutrient absorption.
- Sleeve Gastrectomy: This surgery requires removing about 80% of the stomach, forming a tube-shaped stomach about the size of a banana. A smaller stomach restricts the amount of food consumed and decreases the appetite-regulating hormone ghrelin. This is the commonest type of weight loss surgery done worldwide.
- Adjustable Gastric Band: This procedure works by placing an adjustable band at the top of the stomach, making a small pouch above the band with the remaining stomach below. The band’s tightness can be adjusted to change the size of the passageway between parts of the stomach. This is becoming less popular due to the availability of better options with an equal safety profile.
- Biliopancreatic Diversion with Duodenal Switch (BPD/DS)/SADI-S: This less common surgery types involves removing a portion of the stomach and rerouting a lengthy portion of the small intestine to a small stomach pouch. It drastically reduces calorie absorption and is typically used for those with a very high BMI or after failed previous bariatric surgery.
Each bariatric surgery has different implications for weight loss recovery, with varying degrees of nutritional considerations and lifestyle adjustments required to achieve and maintain significant weight loss.
Common myths about weight loss surgery
1: Having bariatric surgery is quite risky.
Although there are always hazards associated with surgery, these risks have significantly decreased due to the advancements in bariatric Surgery. Along with procedural advancements reducing the risks, it has also quickened the recovery from weight loss surgery. The safety profile is now equated to being as safe as having keyhole gall bladders surgery. The in hospital stay is usually 1-2 days and some centres around the world even discharge patients on the same day of surgery. That is how safe surgery has become over the years.
2: Diet and exercise play a significant role. There is no need for surgery.
While diet and exercise are undoubtedly vital, for many individuals who are exceedingly obese, these measures may not be sufficient. Research has indicated that dietary and exercise modifications can lead to weight loss. On the same note surgery on it’s own is not enough – Dietary discipline plays a lot to achieve best weight loss after surgery.
3: Most people will regain their weight.
There is a small proportion of weight regain after 3-4 years after surgery in about 30% of patients but nowhere near the levels before surgery. Compared to individuals who lost weight without surgery, long-term studies have demonstrated that more patients have maintained their weight loss 10 years after the procedure. This proves that bariatric surgery can result in sustained significant weight loss.
4: Surgery may interfere with the body’s ability to absorb minerals and vitamins.
Bariatric surgery comes with a caloric deficit that may alter how the body absorbs vitamins and minerals. After surgery, this can be avoided by taking vitamins. It is extremely important that daily vitamin, iron and Vit D supplementation is adhered to after surgery. Regular assessment of vitamin and mineral levels should be part of post-operative follow-up care for patients to rectify deficiencies.
5: Having weight loss surgery prevents you from becoming a parent.
It is advised that patients undergoing weight loss surgery avoid getting pregnant for the first two years following their procedure. This is to achieve a steady state to cater to the nutritional demands of the mother and baby which can be difficult during the period of weight loss. After surgery, most patients hit a weight-loss plateau about two years later.
6: Bariatric surgery causes alcoholism.
Numerous studies have demonstrated that there is no conclusive connection between alcohol use and bariatric surgery. After surgery, patients are recommended to limit their alcohol intake because the effects of alcohol can worsen. On the same note there is a potential to ‘addiction transfer’ from food to alcohol which should be monitored and addressed on need.
7: Having bariatric surgery is a quick fix.
Although bariatric surgery can result in rapid weight loss, some patients may experience weight gain. Usually, it results from unhealthy lifestyle decisions, such as inadequate exercise or improper diet. Weight loss surgery is a helpful tool, but maintaining weight loss requires good lifestyle choices.
Consult Dr. Balaji today for weight loss surgery
Weight loss surgery can be a helpful decision for those struggling with obesity and other weight related issues. By debunking the common myths about weight loss surgery, we aim to help patients make an informed decision.
If you are seeking weight loss surgery, consult with a qualified healthcare professional like Dr. Balaji, who specializes in bariatric procedures. Take the first step towards a healthier future by seeking expert advice and guidance on your weight loss journey today.