Weight loss surgery is major surgery. Although most patients
enjoy an improvement in obesity-related health conditions
(such as mobility, self-image and self-esteem) after the
successful results of weight loss surgery, these results
should not be the overriding motivation for having the
procedure. The goal is to live better, healthier and longer.
That is why you should make the decision to have weight
loss surgery only after careful consideration and consultation
with an experienced bariatric surgeon or a knowledgeable
family physician. A qualified surgeon should answer
your questions clearly and explain the exact details
of the procedure, the extent of the recovery period
and the reality of the follow-up care that will be required.
They may, as part of routine evaluation for weight loss
surgery, require that you consult with a dietician/nutritionist
and a psychiatrist/therapist. This is to help establish
a clear understanding of the post-operative changes
in behavior that are essential for long-term success.
It
is important to remember that there are no ironclad
guarantees in any kind of medicine or surgery. There
can be unexpected outcomes in even the simplest procedures.
What can be said, however, is that weight loss surgery
will only succeed when the patient makes a lifelong
commitment. Some of the challenges facing a person after
weight loss surgery can be unexpected. Lifestyle changes
can strain relationships within families and between
married couples. To help patients achieve their goals
and deal with the changes surgery and weight loss can
bring, most bariatric surgeons offer follow-up care
that includes support groups, dieticians and other forms
of continuing education.
Ultimately, the decision to have the procedure is entirely
up to you. After having heard all the information, you
must decide if the benefits outweigh the side effects
and potential complications. This surgery is only a
tool. Your ultimate success depends on strict adherence
to the recommended dietary, exercise and lifestyle changes.
