The short term benefits are what many people are most familiar with when they think of weight loss surgeries. These include the immediate drop in weight and the overall improvement of the general health of the patient. What some may not be aware of is that these health benefits are often reported for years after the surgery has taken place. In many patients who have their six-year follow up visit, the majority of them has lost at least 20 percent of their pre-surgery weight and has successfully kept it off. In addition to keeping the weight off, they also show drastic improvements in their blood pressure levels as well as their diabetes.
Bariatric surgery is most commonly suggested for patients who have a body mass index of at least 40. The number drops down to 35 if they are experiencing health problems such as diabetes or high blood pressure. In addition to the patient's body mass index, they must also present with other weight related health problems to be considered for this type of procedure. There is also an additional list of criteria that potential patients must meet before they are referred to a surgeon to discuss the different types of bariatric surgeries they may choose from. The most common of these surgeries is the gastric bypass. This surgery involves a surgeon shrinking the patient's stomach my making the upper portion of the stomach approximately the size of a walnut and then connecting that area directly to the small intestine.
Some of the most common weight related health problems that can be alleviated by undergoing bariatric surgery include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, heart disease, diabetes, sleep apnea, infertility and respiratory insufficiency. Each of these health problems can be dangerous enough on their own, but when a patient exhibits multiples of these health problems they are in dire need off making lifestyle changes. Bariatric surgery can help reduce the patient's existing high blood pressure and diabetes. It can also help improve the other conditions as well; this is why so many patients may choose to have bariatric surgery.
As with any type of surgical procedure there are always risks involved. If you are concerned about the risks associated with bariatric surgery, you should consult with your primary caregiver or the surgeon that you may have been referred to. They will answer any questions that you may have about the different types of procedures and the risks that are associated with each.
Nina Mehrabani is a Health care Coordinator for One Stop Med Center located in sunny Mexico where high quality care and affordable cosmetic surgery is their priority. To learn more on this topic and other various cosmetic surgery procedures, please visit One Stop Med Center.
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