Most Weight-Loss Surgery Patients Have Struggled with Their Weight for Many Years, Often Losing and Regaining Weight After Dieting
January 25, 2024
Weight-loss surgery can break this cycle. Sarvenaz Nouri, MD, Medical Director, Bariatric Surgery, explains who qualifies as a candidate for the procedure, and shares insights on lifestyle changes after surgery.
Q. Am I a candidate for bariatric weight-loss surgery?
There are criteria used to determine if you are a surgery candidate. Qualifications include:
- 100 pounds or more over their ideal body weight
- BMI (Body Mass Index) of over 40
- BMI of 35-40 with obesity related diseases such as type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure
- Unsuccessful attempts to lose weight through diet and exercise, therapy, medication, or a combination of strategies.
While there are risks in any surgery, the risk of complication from these procedures is very low and comparable with common procedures that are performed, such as gallbladder surgery. Your doctor will discuss everything if you qualify for weight-loss surgery.
Q. What lifestyle changes will I need to make after minimally invasive surgery?
Weight loss surgery is a powerful tool, but its success hinges on a lifelong commitment to a healthy diet and regular exercise. It's not just a procedure, but a stepping stone to healthier lifestyle choices that are crucial for long-term success and well-being. Post the initial dietary phases, patients gradually return to a 'normal' diet. However, it's important to highlight that 'normal' post-bariatric surgery has a new definition. Patients typically find that they:
- Eat smaller portions – The surgery inherently reduces stomach size, leading to smaller meal portions.
- Feel satiated sooner and longer – Changes in hunger and satiety hormones occur, leading to reduced hunger and increased fullness.
- Experience enhanced portion control – Patients report better control over portion sizes.
These long-term changes are critical in helping patients maintain healthy weight levels and improve overall well-being. It is important for patients to continue focusing on high-protein, low-carb, and low-fat options, and to stay hydrated. You may return to work in about 1-3 weeks if surgery was minimally invasive (laparoscopic or robotic). You can exercise within 2-4 weeks after surgery once your doctor clears you.
You’ll need support from friends and family
You will also have follow-up appointments with your doctor and nutritional team. They’ll test your blood levels to make sure you’re not becoming nutritionally deficient or anemic. Another component to after-surgery care is the support of family and friends. Participation in a support group is also vital. Many think weight-loss surgery is a quick fix or an easy way to lose the weight. It is not. In the support group, you’ll be with other patients who share their challenges and successes.
Individual results may vary. There are risks associated with any surgical procedure. Talk with your doctor about these risks to find out if bariatric or robotic surgery is right for you.