Weight loss surgery can change just about every aspect of your life, including your eating habits, self-image, and relationships. If you’re among the one-third of Americans considered obese, bariatric surgery just maybe what the doctor ordered. Bariatric surgery is an operation that helps you lose weight by making changes to your digestive system. Some types of bariatric surgeries make your stomach smaller, allowing you to eat and drink less at one time and making you feel full sooner.
Other bariatric surgeries also change your small intestine-the part of your body that absorbs calories and nutrients from foods and beverages. Bariatric surgery enhances weight loss in obese people who have not achieved long-term success with other weight loss attempts. Your physician can help determine if you’re a candidate and which option will work best for you.
Healthy lifestyle choices give the best results for health and quality of life after surgery. In the weeks after surgery, your dietitian will have a nutrition plan for you to follow. This may include a liquid diet for a period of time followed by a progression to soft or pureed foods, and eventually more regular-textured food. Most bariatric surgery programs plan for long-term follow-up visits with a healthcare provider experienced with obesity management. The most important thing is that you find a bariatric surgery program that provides for this long-term care, so that any problems or concerns that develop over time can be addressed by an experienced team.
Long Term Health Benefits of Weight Loss Surgery
- Joint Pain Relief
- Improved Fertility
- Alleviation of Medical Conditions
- Elimination of Sleep Apnea
- Improved Cardiovascular Health
- Less Depression and Anxiety
- Possible Remission of Type 2 Diabetes
- Lowering of Cholesterol and HyperTension
Bariatric surgery alone isn’t a permanent solution to obesity. It’s a tool for losing weight. Once it occurs, you need to exercise and eat smart to stay slim. If you think you’re eligible for bariatric surgery - and are ready to commit to it - talk with your doctor or with an endocrinologist about your options.
Dr. Arif Ahmad specializes in the laparoscopic gastric bypass, lap band and sleeve gastrectomy. He is renowned in the Long Island area for his impeccable track record of safety and success. Dr Ahmad conducts patient education sessions every two weeks at Mather Hospital in Port Jefferson and in varying locations across Suffolk County. Please call (631) 689-0220 if you wish to register or have other questions.
