The Facts About Gastric Bypass Surgery

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Life brings us many challenges and for some maintaining a reasonable weight is a very large challenge. We spend years yo-yo dieting going from Atkins, to Weight Watchers to The Zone as we try just about every weight loss plan imaginable. We successfully loose weight regardless of the diet only to gain it back. After years of dieting we decide to check into bariatric weight loss surgery. We soon discover that choosing the best weight loss surgery is like trying to find the perfect soul mate. Of course there are dozens of options but only a select few tie in with your beliefs, life long goals and ultimate needs. Admit it, it can be overwhelming when trying to find that perfect fit. Fortunately, thanks to today’s technology and medical advances, selecting the right procedure has become less painful.

Currently, the most talked about method is Gastric Bypass. Sure, you’ve seen it talked about in magazines, celebrities dishing about how much weight they’ve lost. But is it really meant for you? The following facts about gastric bypass surgery may help you narrow down your search.

What exactly is Gastric Bypass? How serious is the surgery?

Gastric Bypass is no simple procedure. The surgeon actually decreases the size of your stomach and allows food to bypass part of the small intestine. This not only limits food intake it also decreases the amount of calories that are absorbed. Depending on the individual’s health, it can be a serious surgery. With gastric bypass comes a sundry of potential complications from vomiting to blood clots and hernias. On the bright side gastric bypass surgery as also been found to cure diabetes and sleep apnea, lower blood pressure, reduce the risks to some cancers and increase the life of most patients. For most severely obese individuals it is worth the risk, and it will allow you to lose a significant amount of weight.

What are the requirements?

The average patient needs to have a BMI of 40 or more. Most doctors also require that you have been obese for at least five years and are between the ages of 18 and 65. Mental health also needs to be taken into consideration. If you are struggling with depression and it has yet to be treated, you may not be considered. Realistic expectations are also critical.

How long will I be out of work?

Everyone heals and responds to surgery differently. However, two to six weeks should be enough for anyone to recuperate. This allows your stomach to fully heal, minimizing potential risks. In addition, since you will be on a liquid diet for several weeks, you’ll feel extremely drained. The last thing you should be doing is pushing yourself. For this reason, resting will surely speed up recovery.

Is Gastric Bypass Surgery effective?

For most the initial weight loss will be rapid and many patients loose 85% or more of their excess weight during the first year. Once you have shed the pounds, it is important that you stick to a healthy diet and continue with your daily exercise. Surgery is not an easy way out and should not be taken lightly. While it gives you the tools to succeed, you need to put in the effort to maintain a healthy lifestyle.