Common Misconceptions about Bariatric Surgery
Bariatric surgery is a popular treatment option for obesity, which helps to achieve and maintain significant weight loss. It also addresses various obesity-related health problems and improves quality of life. As a bariatric surgeon, Dr. Venugopal Pareek evaluates and educates every patient who comes for weight loss treatment so that they can make an informed decision regarding surgery and also helps them prepare emotionally and psychologically.
Even though it is effective and advantageous, quite a few misconceptions surround bariatric surgery, restricting obese individuals from considering it as an effective way to lose their excess weight. In this article, Dr. Pareek addressed common misconceptions about bariatric surgery and provided accurate information to assist people in making well-informed choices regarding their health and well-being.
Bariatric surgery is considered a “simple solution” for losing weight.
Though bariatric surgery for weight loss is an effective solution, it is a major surgical procedure where one needs to modify their lifestyle after surgery completely and should be committed to achieving their weight loss goals. It is not a simple solution, but a simple tool to start your weight loss journey and improve your overall health.
Bariatric surgery is suitable only for people with severe obesity.
Bariatric surgery is commonly suggested for severely obese people with a BMI ≥ 40 or BMI ≥ 35 with complications associated with obesity. However, people with lower BMIs can also opt for weight loss surgery when they fail to achieve success with other ways to lose weight.
Bariatric surgery is not a safe procedure because it carries significant health risks.
Generally, bariatric procedures are safe and successful, particularly when performed in approved medical centres by skilled bariatric surgeons. Like any other major surgical procedure, bariatric surgery also carries certain risks that are manageable; however, the benefits of the procedure may outweigh the risks.
Bariatric surgery results in malnutrition and nutrient deficiencies.
Certain types of bariatric surgeries might lead to malnutrition because the structural changes made to the stomach can impact nutrient absorption. However, following proper healthy eating habits and recommended supplementation can help prevent risks like malnutrition and other nutrient deficiencies.
Being in touch with the doctor regularly is very important so that they can observe the nutrition level in your body and modify supplementation as needed.
Bariatric surgery is a cosmetic procedure and does not have any other health benefits.
Bariatric surgery is not a cosmetic procedure, along with weight loss, it greatly improves or resolves many obesity-related health problems like type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure (hypertension), heart problems, sleep apnea, and joint problems like pain & stiffness. Overall, it improves your quality of life.
Bariatric surgery can be reversed.
This is partially true because only some bariatric procedures, like adjustable gastric banding and gastric balloon procedures, are reversible. Other bariatric procedures, like gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy, can be partially reversed. People who undergo weight loss surgeries should be clear and aware of the long-term nature of the procedure of their choice and its possible consequences.
Bariatric surgery is specially designed for obese women.
No, it is not true; both men and women can undergo bariatric surgery. It is equally effective for both genders in treating obesity and related health conditions.
Bariatric surgery is the final option for weight loss and should only be considered when other weight-loss strategies have failed.
For people with obesity, bariatric surgery is an effective treatment option, particularly for people who fail to achieve weight loss with traditional weight loss procedures like diet, physical activity, medication, and other strategies. So it is not the final option; it can be an early approach to losing weight and improving health and well-being.
Bariatric surgery provides instant and permanent weight loss.
Bariatric surgery can’t provide instant weight loss; it is designed to provide weight loss over time. Typically, people who undergo this surgery may lose 50% to 70% of their excess body weight within 1-2 years. It doesn’t make them abnormally thin or weak when they follow the instructions as directed by doctors.
Bariatric surgery is an expensive procedure and is not covered by insurance.
Bariatric surgery may be costly, but not unaffordable. However, the cost of bariatric surgery varies from person to person, depending on many factors.
A few years ago, it was not covered under health insurance plans, but nowadays, numerous insurance policies have come into existence to cover bariatric surgery, especially if it is medically necessary. Additionally, many other ways, like financing and other payment options, are also available in some places to make these weight loss procedures easily accessible and affordable.
All bariatric surgeries are identical for everyone.
Though there are different forms of bariatric procedures, their ultimate goal is to help you lose weight. The mechanisms and considerations are different with every procedure, and the results also vary from one person to the next.
Common weight loss procedures
- Gastric bypass (Roux-en-Y)
- Sleeve gastrectomy
- Adjustable gastric banding (Lap band),
- Biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch (BPD/DS).
Bariatric surgeons suggest procedures for patients depending on certain factors like their needs, health, weight loss goals, and other personal considerations.
It is well established that bariatric surgery is a safe and effective weight loss treatment option for obesity and certain related health conditions. Most of the misconceptions have been debunked, and the hidden facts are provided in this blog. If you are obese and want to undergo bariatric surgery or are looking for any other weight loss solution, consult Dr. Venugopal Pareek, one of the best bariatric surgeons for weight loss in Hyderabad. He has more than 18 years of experience and has helped thousands of obese people achieve their weight loss goals.
