Frequently Asked Questions about Weight Loss Surgery

Obese people looking to lose a considerable amount of weight, often turn to weight loss surgery. While weight loss surgery is an effective means of losing weight, it can be a hard decision for some to make. In the past, there have been many stories about weight loss surgery patients that have had a difficult time recovering. Today, there is newer technology that makes these procedures easier and safer. Still, many people have questions about weight loss surgery.

If you are considering weight loss surgery, it is important that you talk to you doctor about which kind of surgery is right for you. Also, make sure that all questions are asked before deciding on the surgery. There are different types of weight loss surgeries and each one carries a unique set of risks and complications. Here are some common questions people ask about weight loss surgery.

How much weight will I lose after the surgery?
This often depends on which surgery you have and how closely you follow the guidelines. In general, most patients will lose two to three pounds each week for the first year. One pound a week is more realistic. After the first year, weight loss will drop and the amount of weight lost will be gradual. Most patients can expect to lose around 36 percent of their excess body weight in the first year following surgery.

How long will it take to recovery from surgery?
This also depends on what kind of weight loss surgery you have. Laparoscopic patients have a much shorter recovery time than those who have an open procedure. Most patients stay in the hospital for at least 24 hours after surgery. It takes most patients one to six weeks to resume daily activities and exercise.

Will I be sick after the surgery?
With all weight loss surgeries, the goal is to limit food intake. Getting used to the fewer calories can lead to dizziness and headaches. For those who often feel nauseated after eating, this can mean that the food is not being chewed well enough or that the wrong foods are being eaten. It is important to control the nausea because vomiting can lead to serious problems.

Will I need plastic surgery fro the surplus skin when I have lost a lot of weight?
Some patients do choose to have plastic surgery after weight loss surgery. If a patient has been overweight for a long time, the skin it stretched and will usually not “mold” itself into place. Plastic surgery is not a consideration until at least one year following surgery.

Can I become pregnant after the surgery?
Yes, with some weight loss surgeries, but it usually recommended that you wait at least a year to eighteen months following surgery before becoming pregnant. With the Lap-Band, the band can be loosened during pregnancy to accommodate the increased need for more nutrition.

Will I suffer from constipation?
Some patients do because there is less fiber in the diet. This is normal and if it becomes a problem, your doctor can recommend a mild laxative.

 

Ten Terms To Know When Considering Weight Loss Surgery

For those who are morbidly obese, they may be considering weight loss surgery as one of the last options. If you are one that is looking into the idea of weight loss surgery, there are several things that you will want to know. One of these is the terms that are used in relation to what weight loss surgery.

Following are ten terms that you should know when considering weight loss surgery:

1. BMI. This also stands for body mass index. This will measure your height and weight, and then determine how overweight you are in relation to the percentage of body fat you have. Your BMI will be the first determination in deciding if you can get weight loss surgery.

2. Morbid Obesity. This term is important because it will define whether you can have weight loss surgery or not. You must be 100 pounds overweight and have a BMI of over 40 in order to be considered for weight loss surgery.

3. Gastric bypass surgery. This type of weight loss surgery is one option for those looking into surgery. It follows a different process than other options, but is well known among weight loss surgeons.

4. Lap Band. This is becoming one of the most popular types of weight loss surgery. It is an adjustable band that is put around your upper stomach during surgery.

5. Adjustable Gastric bands. This is a type of band that is put on during the surgery and can be adjusted depending on your needs. This is one option of surgery for those involved.

6. Restrictive surgery. This type of surgery will focus on your stomach area, working to shrink the stomach as well as provide for your food to be digested differently.

7. Malabsorptive Surgery. This is the second type of surgery used. It will concentrate on either bypassing areas of your intestine or moving the intestine to a different area, which will redirect your food.

8. Informed consent. This is a form that states that you know exactly what the risks and procedures of the surgery are, and are willing to take these risks during the surgery in order to have the procedure done.

9. Laparoscopic Surgery. This uses technology to do the weight loss surgery. It includes making smaller incisions in your abdomen area and using a camera to find where the band or other form of surgery needs to be placed. Regular surgery will usually include one incision that is much larger.

10. Bariatric Surgeon. A bariatric surgeon or procedure is also known as a weight loss surgeon or surgery. This is the common term that will be used in relation to your weight loss surgery.

Knowing these terms will allow you to walk into a surgeon’s office and gain the right information for your weight loss surgery. It will also allow you to decide which process and procedures you want to have as well as the effect that it will have on you. By knowing the different terms and understanding how the ideas of weight loss surgery fit together, you can make an informed decision about this procedure.

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