Weight Loss - Surgical Intervention - Is it Right for You?

When considering weight loss surgical intervention may seem like a magical answer to your problem, but it should not be undertaken lightly and only if other methods have not been successful

You may be considering weight loss surgery if you have been fighting a losing battle with your weight for years. Perhaps have recently read about success stories or watched TV shows tracking the progress of those who have had weightloss surgery and are wondering if this approach would work for you.

As obesity increases at an alarming rate and with it the need for weight loss, surgical intervention is becoming more common, although it is usually the last resort, used only when other methods have failed.

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Surgical procedures have become safer with advances in technology and more highly trained medical staff. However, no surgical operation is without risk and in fact, the risk is much greater when the patient is overweight. Although many people succeed in losing weight afterwards and are able to adjust their eating patterns to take into account a smaller stomach, there are also those who do not.

It is therefore extremely important for each patient to look at his or her lifestyle and state of health before deciding if surgery is the right choice. It is also important to discuss all the details with an experienced surgeon in order to get a clear picture of the pros and cons of weight loss surgery.

In addition, it is important to discuss the consequences of surgery with a psychologist and dietician, as it is not always easy to adapt to the changes which are necessary if success is to be achieved on a long-term basis.

Success after weightloss surgery is generally attributed to those who manage to lose 50% or more of their extra body weight and to keep it off for at least 5 years. However, there are many variables to consider, such as patient motivation, support network and aftercare.

Weight loss usually occurs very quickly after surgery and continues rapidly for around 18 months to 2 years. At the same time, health problems directly related to obesity are likely to improve.

Lap band surgery is the most popular and least invasive form of weight loss surgical intervention available. It restricts the amount that a person can eat and also slows down digestion and diminishes appetite. It also has the advantage of being adjustable, so that more or less food can be eaten and it is also a reversible procedure. Side effects and complications are not common, but should nonetheless be discussed with your doctor. Any form of surgery carries risks and don't forget that obesity itself is a risk factor.

Just because it is more readily available and more talked about these days, weight loss surgery is not a magic solution to obesity and should only be considered after a careful analysis of the alternatives and the possible consequences. If you have struggled for years with weight loss, surgical intervention may be recommended by your doctor but make sure you understand all the implications.