Benefits of Weight Loss Surgery

The Benefits of Weight Loss Surgery

Bariatric surgery is the only proven long-term weight loss surgery solution for those who are obese or morbidly obese. The benefits of weight loss surgery go far beyond losing the weight.. In fact, weight loss may be considered a very beneficial side effect of the true nature of weight loss surgery procedures – disease resolution and reduction of co-morbid conditions. Obesity and excess weight in general can cause a host of medical issues including type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure and sleep apnea to name a few. Obesity has also been linked to other conditions including heart disease, joint pain, and certain forms of cancer. As a result, weight loss surgery has the potential for significant lifestyle and health improvement. For most patients who qualify, undergoing a surgical procedure to correct their obesity is far safer than living with obesity itself. 

Some of the benefits of weight-loss surgery include: 

• The resolution or improvement of obesity related diseases. Also called co-morbidities, these are the conditions that are the obesity related medical conditions that can shorten life-span in an individual. 
• Weight loss surgery can also improve mobility, allowing the patent to functionally move and exercise. Conversely, exercise will improve weight loss and improve health. Simple tasks like walking up a hill, tying your shoes,and playing with children become easier. 
• Increase social opportunities. Obesity can often cause people to become shy or introverted. As they lose weight, bariatric surgery patients will tend to seek out social activities, including going on dates, going to parties and generally interacting with others on a personal basis.
• Joint and bone pain may also be reduced as a lower body weight puts less strain on the joints throughout the body, allowing for less pain. Bone disease that has already occurred will not reverse, but tolerable pain may delay inevitable joint replacement surgery.
• Cost benefits. Obesity is an extremely costly disease in the United States. In many cases, patients will have savings on medications, doctor visits, hospital visits and long-term care. A weight loss surgery patient may be able to save enough money for the procedure in just the reduction of medication, doctor visit, and therapy sessions alone in a short period of time.

No matter the benefits or the reasons for choosing weight loss surgery, it is important to remember that it is still a major surgical procedure and caution should be exercised before undergoing any surgical procedure. There are certainly risks that go along with these benefits and these risks must be understood fully. We hope that you will speak to our office to learn more about the risks of surgery and attend one of our free seminars in person or online.