Weight Loss Watcher

The rising number and demand for weight loss surgeries, or bariatric surgery, is yet another indicator of the rising obsession to shed those extra kilos as quickly as possible. It is usually opted by those who have unsuccessfully attempted the conventional ways to lose weight and have failed miserably. These surgeries gave them ray of hope to ease their frustration with weight related problems.

The surgery is usually focused upon such procedures that restrict the stomach to limit the food intake, which may include removing portions of the stomach (also known as Gastric Bypass Surgery), or placing a silicone belt around the stomach that controls ones appetite and hence results in smaller intake of food (Lap-Band Surgery), and techniques to reduce the calorie absorption by the intestines by interrupting the digestive process (Malabsorptive Surgery).

The known risks of these surgeries usually include scarring due to the operation, band leakage and deflation, infection etc. it is also followed by a few weeks’ recovery period before getting back to ones normal routine. Precaution needs to be taken such as regular check ups after the surgery, adhering to a diet plan, regular exercise, intake of additional supplements etc. Moreover, not every can be a candidate for these surgeries and only those with morbid weight problems are considered for it, like those with a Body-Mass Index of 40 and above. Though these surgeries indeed help in weight loss, there are some side-effects that occur post-surgery such as vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, weakness (‘Dumping Syndrome’ caused due to interruptions in digestive system), anemia, osteoporosis and metabolic bone diseases, gallstones etc.

It is, therefore, only after when all other attempts to lose weight have failed that these surgeries are prescribed to those at major health risks due to severe weight issues which may prove fatal if not treated. Before one decides to underake the surgery, one has to be prepared to face the side-effects, a complete change in ones lifestyle, and dietary plan along with regular physical activity to keep the weight loss process going.

Filed under: Surgeries