Bariatric Surgery – Overview

In: Health & Fitness

9 Apr 2009

Bariatric Surgery, also well-known as weight loss surgery, is a specialized surgical discipline did to treat obesity by a alteration of the stomach to make a much smaller stomach pouch therefore assisting in “portion control”. The total of food eaten by the patient in a single setting is significantly reduced and weight loss is attained . Bariatic surgery is not the similar as liposuction or abdominoplasty which are the surgical elimination of fat and commonly performed for makeup effect.

Bariatric surgery is recognized by the National Institutes of Health as a safe, well-tolerated, and effective method for producing (often substantial) weight reduction and has been performed and perfected for over 30 years. Still, undergoing any surgery is a serious decision that requires careful thought.

One should consider operative hazard , (including death) and some possible results before deciding to pursue the remedy choice. Additionally, before considering Bariatric surgery, serious efforts must first be made to lose weight through a supervised healthy diet, working out plus adopting a physically active lifestyle.

People who may consider bariatric surgery include those with a body mass index (BMI) above 40-which means about 100 pounds of overweight for men and 80 pounds for women. Also those who suffer from type 2 diabetes or life-threatening cardiopulmonary problems such as obesity-related heart disease may also be candidates for surgery.

While ninety percent of patients who undergo bariatric surgery lose 60-70% of their excess body weight within the first year of surgery, this initial rapid weight loss period will gradually reach a plateau. To maintain overall health, vitamins must be taken since parts of the stomach and small intestine have been bypassed through surgery and some nutrients are now not adequately absorbed. Finally, to assure long-term weight management success, dietary and lifestyle changes must be faithfully adhered to throughout life.

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