A bariatric (weight loss) procedure is not recommended for every overweight patient, but it may be the right treatment option if: you are more than 100 lbs. overweight; your BMI is greater than 40, or greater than 35 with a serious obesity-related condition; you have tried and failed with other obesity treatments; and you are willing to commit to a dramatic change in lifestyle.
For a seriously overweight patient, bariatric surgery to correct obesity may have many benefits, including:
Significant weight loss
Most of our New Jersey weight loss Surgery patients at 12 to 18 months after surgery have lost a large portion of their excess weight. The amount of weight loss will depend on the type of procedure and how well the patient adheres to the recommended diet and exercise program.
Resolution of obesity-related health conditions
In a recent study published in the Cleveland Clinic Journal of Medicine, researchers found that after laparoscopic gastric bypass, Type II diabetes was 83% resolved, hypertension was 52% to 92% resolved, obstructive sleep apnea was 74% to 98% resolved, asthma was 82% resolved or improved, and cardiovascular disease risk was reduced by 82%.
Increased physical activity
Becoming more physically active after weight loss surgery is a key component of long-term success. After shedding a significant number of pounds, you feel better, you are carrying less weight, and it is easier to get up and move around.
Fewer medications
Patients with serious health conditions associated with obesity may need to take medications to control them -- diabetes, high blood pressure, asthma, or cardiovascular disease, for example. Many of these conditions resolve after bariatric procedures, and fewer, if any, medications are needed.
Better quality of life
Obesity is a serious chronic disease. When it is corrected with the right treatment and the excess weight is gone, the patient looks better, feels better, makes better lifestyle choices, and is likely to take a more active interest in life.
Increased life expectancy
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), obesity-related diseases are among the leading preventable causes of death in the U.S. Correcting obesity can increase your chances of living a longer, healthier, happier life.
