8 Myths Associated with Bariatric Surgery

With obesity rising at an alarming level, many people are opting for bariatric surgery, but misconceptions remain rampant about the surgery. These misconceptions are keeping many patients from going for this procedure. What is important to note here is that many people are not aware that obesity is a disease. According to top bariatric surgeons in Delhi, any person with a BMI of 35 or more is a good candidate for bariatric surgery. Here are some common myths associated with the procedure:

Myth 1: Bariatric Surgery is a Quick Fix for Rapid Weight Loss

The reality is that bariatric surgery is not a miracle weight reduction procedure. The surgery is designed to help morbidly obese people in developing a healthier lifestyle. Bariatric surgery is a useful tool to help with weight loss, but the procedure still requires a substantial lifelong commitment. The procedure alone will not help you lose weight and keep it off. The patient will be required to bring in changes in their eating habits as well as in their exercise habits. Without these changes, the patient is likely to gain back the lost weight over time.

Myth 2: All Bariatric Surgery are “Stomach Stapling”

The reality is that bariatric surgery is an umbrella term that is used for different types of gastrointestinal procedures for weight loss. Some of these procedures reduce the size of the stomach and others involve bypassing parts of the digestive tract, reducing the absorption of calories and other nutrients. Different types of procedures yield different results and their suitability depends on the patient.

Myth 3: Obese People are Lazy in Losing Weight

The reality is that many obese people suffer from a disease called obesity and this is not always something that can be dealt with, with exercise. Most of these people have tried numerous ways to lose weight, but have been unsuccessful. Bariatric surgery is usually treated as a last resort. The sad part is that most obese people suffer discrimination due to their excess weight.

Myth 4: Bariatric Surgery is Dangerous

Almost all surgery procedures have some type of associated risks, like various complications and sometime even death. The recent advancements in medicine have minimised the risks associated with weigh loss procedures significantly. Surgeries performed at leading hospitals are done laparoscopically with mini-incisions. This results in faster healing, less pain, and less scaring. Also, bariatric surgery may help the patient overcome life threatening conditions that are associated with obesity, like Type II diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnoea, and high cholesterol.

Myth 5: I am not a candidate for laparoscopic surgery if I have had surgeries before

According to top bariatric surgeons in Delhi, you will still be a candidate for surgery, even if you have had open surgery or other minimally invasive surgeries before. Just keep in mind that it will differ from patient to patient and a proper evaluation will have to be done before the surgery.

Myth 6: Certain Surgical Weight Loss Procedures Prevent Proper Nutrition

It is true that most patients must take supplements after a weight loss procedure as it hinders proper absorption of vitamins and minerals. The patient is required to follow their doctor’s advice about the diet. This will allow them enjoy a nutritionally balanced diet. In most cases, the overall health and well-being health of the patient improves after bariatric surgery.

Myth 7: Follow Up Care is Not Necessary

For bariatric surgery to be most successful, it requires follow-up care for at least one year. Patients would be required to meet their doctor at least two to four times. The doctor will be able to guide the patient in making long term lifestyle changes.

Myth 8: Weight Gain after a Gastric Bypass is Due to the Stomach Stretching Back

The truth is that the stomach can stretch a little, but in reality, the opening at the bottom of stomach gets stretched out. This allows the food to empty out of stomach faster, leading to hunger and the ability to eat more. There are options that can help shrink the opening down again and patient should consult their doctor about these options.

These were some of the most common myths associated with bariatric surgery. If you are considering a weight loss procedure, you should consult your doctor to find out more about the best procedure for you.