Understanding Bariatric Surgery: Your Top 15 Questions Answered
At CeMar Surgery, we are dedicated to transforming lives through advanced bariatric surgery. Our team of experts, led by or renowned surgeon Dr. Karla Rosales and supported by specialized nutritionists and medical staff, is committed to providing comprehensive care that encompasses not just the surgical procedure, but an all inclusive Bariatric Surgery Program approach to your health and well-being. With a track record of successful outcomes and a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities that come with weight loss surgery, we are here to guide you every step of the way on your journey to a healthier, more vibrant life.
For many, the path to considering bariatric surgery at CeMar Surgery is paved with the challenges of long-term weight management struggles. Despite sincere efforts in dieting, engaging in weight loss programs, exercising, and sometimes using prescribed medications, sustainable success remains elusive for some. This journey, often marked by cycles of weight loss and regain, can lead to feelings of self-doubt and discouragement.
At CeMar Surgery, we deeply understand these challenges. Our commitment is to provide a welcoming, judgment-free zone where effective, life-altering solutions are accessible. Our state-of-the-art facilities, top board-certified bariatric Surgeon, and compassionate medical team are dedicated to supporting you through a transformative journey toward health and well-being. We are committed to providing comprehensive care that encompasses not just the surgical procedure, but an all-inclusive approach to your health and well-being within our Bariatric Surgery Program. With a track record of successful outcomes and a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities that come with weight loss surgery, we are here to guide you every step of the way on your journey to a healthier, more vibrant life and sustainable change.
Overcoming Morbid Obesity with Bariatric Solutions
Morbid obesity is considered a chronic disease, demanding a lifelong dedication to maintaining health. Bariatric surgery offers a promising solution, making significant changes to your body's structure and function. These changes can lead to major weight loss and greatly improve, or even reverse, related health issues. At CeMar Surgery, our aim is to inspire you with hope and guide you on a clear journey toward a healthier future. We admire the courage it takes to pursue this transformation and the commitment needed to start a new beginning.
With this in mind, we've compiled a list of the top 15 questions our patients frequently ask about bariatric surgery. This article aims to shed light on these inquiries, offering clear, evidence-based answers to help you make an informed decision. From understanding the basics of bariatric surgery to addressing concerns about recovery, nutrition, and long-term lifestyle changes, we cover it all. Our goal is to empower you with knowledge, so you feel confident and prepared to take the next steps in your weight loss journey.
1. What is bariatric surgery, and how does it work?
Bariatric surgery includes various procedures that aid in weight loss by making changes to your digestive system, often by limiting the amount of food you can eat or by reducing the absorption of nutrients, or both. These surgeries trigger weight loss and improve obesity-related conditions like diabetes and hypertension.
2. Am I a candidate for bariatric surgery?
Candidates for bariatric surgery typically have a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher, obesity-related health issues may also be considered for surgery, depending on specific guidelines and medical advice.
While most overweight and obese individuals try to lose excess pounds through diet and exercise, many of them fail. Sometimes, the reason for failure is beyond one’s control because of genetics or disease. If you are one of these people, weight loss surgery might be the answer.
A common misconception about weight loss surgery is that it’s only for the morbidly obese. You may be surprised to find that you could be a candidate for weight loss surgery if you are only 50 pounds overweight. We believe it’s important to consider weight loss surgery even before major health issues arise.
For Gastric Balloon and Endoscopic Sleeve Patients: BMI greater than 27
3. What are the different types of bariatric surgery?
The most common types are:
- Gastric Sleeve: Or Vertical Gastric Sleeve (VGS), an effective weight loss surgery to reduce your stomach size, promoting weight loss, designed to help you feel fuller, therefore eliminating your desire to eat as much or as often
- Gastric Bypass: Indicated for the surgical treatment of morbid obesity. The procedure that redirects digestion to limit calorie and nutrient absorption. It is better suited for patients with high BMI.
- Mini Gastric Bypass: A simplified version of Gastric Bypass that delivers exceptional weight loss results.
- Single Incision Gastric Sleeve: When it comes to SILS advance technique, the biggest difference is that only a single incision is used to perform and reduce the stomach size. There is only one bariatric surgery scar near the bellybutton. The cosmetic results are amazing, most patients have no visible scar after this form of surgery.
- SADI-S Surgery: An advanced option that combines stomach reduction with intestine modification for lasting weight loss and health benefits.
4. How much weight can I expect to lose?
Bariatric surgery includes various procedures that aid in weight loss by making changes to your digestive system, often by limiting the amount of food you can eat or by reducing the absorption of nutrients, or both. These surgeries trigger weight loss and improve obesity-related conditions like diabetes and hypertension.
While most overweight and obese individuals try to lose excess pounds through diet and exercise, many of them fail. Sometimes, the reason for failure is beyond one’s control because of genetics or disease. If you are one of these people, weight loss surgery might be the answer.
Weight loss varies by surgery type and patient. On average, patients lose 60-70% of their excess weight after gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy. It’s important to maintain lifestyle changes to achieve maximum weight loss.
Comprehensive Support at CeMar Surgery
At CeMar Surgery, we provide extensive support before and after your procedure to maximize your success:
- Pre- and Post-Procedure Evaluations: Regular check-ups with our board-certified bariatric specialists to monitor your progress.
- Nutritional Guidance: Personalized dietary plans crafted by our expert MD and Nutritionist to ensure you get the nutrients you need while losing weight for 12 months
- Physical Activity Programs: Tailored exercise plans designed by our certified fitness coach to help you build and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
- Continuous Follow-Up: Ongoing support and adjustments to your care plan as needed to ensure long-term success.
Choosing CeMar Surgery means you're not just getting a procedure; you're gaining a dedicated team committed to helping you achieve your weight loss goals and improve your overall health.
We look forward to supporting you on your journey to a healthier life.
5. What are the risks of bariatric surgery?
As with any major surgery, bariatric surgery carries certain risks, such as infection, blood clots, and bleeding. Long-term risks can include nutritional deficiencies and gallstones.
However, it's important to note that our bariatric surgeries are performed laparoscopically. This minimally invasive approach typically offers benefits such as smaller incisions, reduced pain and scarring, shorter hospital stays, and a quicker recovery.
Laparoscopic surgery also tends to have a lower risk of complications compared to traditional open surgery.
Discussing these risks, as well as the benefits of laparoscopic surgery, with our surgeon is crucial to make an informed decision tailored to your health condition and weight loss goals.
Start with our Health History Questionnaire to schedule a free video consultation with our board-certified bariatric surgeon.
Reducing Risks
At CeMar Surgery, we prioritize your safety by taking several important steps to minimize risks and ensure successful outcomes:
Preoperative Assessments:
- Comprehensive medical evaluations to assess your overall health and readiness for surgery.
- We do not cut costs on essential supplies and ensure the use of appropriate materials for each surgery, including pre- and post-operative endoscopies. These endoscopies are crucial for detecting potential issues such as hiatal hernias, which may need to be repaired, and other gastrointestinal anomalies that must be addressed to ensure your digestive health and optimize surgical outcomes.
Experienced Surgical Team:
- Our board-certified bariatric surgeons and medical team are highly skilled and experienced in performing these procedures.
Postoperative Care:
- Rigorous postoperative monitoring and follow-up to detect and address any complications early.
Nutritional Support:
- We provide a personalized preoperative diet plan tailored to your BMI and health status, ensuring optimal conditions for a successful surgery.
- Ongoing dietary counseling and supplementation to prevent nutritional deficiencies.
Lifestyle Guidance:
- Support from fitness coaches and lifestyle experts to help you maintain healthy habits and sustain weight loss.
Preoperative Instructions:
- Detailed preoperative instructions are provided to optimize surgical outcomes and minimize potential risks. These include dietary adjustments, medication guidelines, and other preparatory steps tailored to your individual needs.
By adhering to these protocols, we aim to minimize potential risks and enhance the overall success of your bariatric surgery. If you have any concerns or need further information, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Our team is here to support you every step of the way.
We look forward to assisting you on your journey to better health.
Each type has its benefits and risks, and the choice depends on your health condition and weight loss goals. To determine which one is the right for you, we offer a free video consultation with our Board-Certified Bariatric Surgeon.
Each type has its benefits and risks, and the choice depends on your health condition and weight loss goals. To determine which one is the right for you, we offer a free video consultation with our Board-Certified Bariatric Surgeon.
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6. How long is the recovery after bariatric surgery?
Recovery time varies. Most patients stay in the hospital for 2-3 days and return to normal activities in 3-5 weeks. Full surgical recovery may take 6 weeks.
7. Will I need to take vitamins or supplements after surgery?
Yes, after most bariatric surgeries, you will need to take vitamin and mineral supplements for life to prevent nutritional deficiencies. To support you in this, our package includes a pre-op personalized diet and guidance through your four post-op phases of personalized nutrition. Our expert, double board-certified medic and bariatric nutritionist, will guide you with a personalized diet and medical approach throughout your journey.
8. Can bariatric surgery cure my diabetes?
Many people experience significant improvement in type 2 diabetes after bariatric surgery, sometimes as quickly as a few days post-operation. In some cases, patients can reduce or eliminate the need for diabetes medication.
9. Will I have excess skin after losing a lot of weight?
It's possible. The amount of excess skin varies among individuals. Body contouring surgery can remove excess skin in some cases. Please ask our patient coordinators for more information about Board Certified Plastic Surgeon options.
10. How does bariatric surgery affect pregnancy?
Women should avoid pregnancy for at least 18 months post-surgery due to rapid weight loss and nutritional concerns. Consult your bariatric surgeon and a obstetrician/gynecologist (OB/GYN) for personalized guidance.
11. Is bariatric surgery reversible?
Some bariatric procedures, such as the gastric band, are reversible, allowing for the removal of the band should it become necessary. However, procedures that involve permanent alteration of the stomach or digestive tract, such as the gastric sleeve and gastric bypass, are not considered reversible in the traditional sense. While the gastric band can be removed, operations like the sleeve and bypass permanently remove or reroute parts of the stomach and intestines.
12. How will my diet change after surgery?
Initially, you’ll follow a liquid diet, gradually transitioning to pureed foods, then to soft foods, and finally to solid foods.
Long-Term Dietary Recommendations
Small Portions: Learn to listen to your body and stop eating when you're satisfied. Portions will be significantly smaller than before surgery.
High Protein, Low Carbs: Prioritize lean proteins and limit carbohydrates, especially refined sugars and highly processed foods, to aid in weight loss and maintenance.
Hydration: Drink plenty of water between meals to avoid dehydration. Avoid drinking fluids during meals to not fill up too quickly.
Vitamins and Supplements: You will likely need lifelong vitamin supplements, such as vitamin B12, iron, calcium, and vitamin D, due to decreased nutrient absorption capacity. Your medical team will advise you on this.
13. Can bariatric surgery fail?
Surgery is a tool for weight loss. Its success depends largely on your commitment to lifestyle changes. Weight regain can occur if these changes are not maintained.
In addition to primary procedures, there are revisional bariatric surgeries available. Revisional surgery may be considered for various reasons, including inadequate weight loss, weight regain, or complications from the initial surgery. These surgeries can range from adjusting an existing gastric band to converting a previous procedure into another form of bariatric surgery.
14. Will bariatric surgery affect my medication absorption?
Yes, some surgeries, especially those that bypass parts of the small intestine, can affect medication absorption. You may need adjustments in your medication dosages.
15. How does bariatric surgery improve other health conditions?
Bariatric surgery can lead to improvement or resolution of various obesity-related conditions, including:
- Type 2 Diabetes: Bariatric surgery can significantly improve blood glucose control and, in some cases, lead to complete remission of type 2 diabetes.
- Hypertension: Many patients experience a reduction in blood pressure, lowering the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
- Sleep Apnea: Weight loss can improve or even completely resolve obstructive sleep apnea.
- Dyslipidemia: Improvements in cholesterol and triglyceride levels can be observed, decreasing the risk of heart disease.
- Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) and Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH): Weight loss can reduce liver inflammation, improve fibrosis, and, in some cases, reverse liver damage.
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Some bariatric procedures can reduce the symptoms of acid reflux.
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): Bariatric surgery can improve various aspects of PCOS, including infertility.
- Joint and Mobility Issues: Weight loss can alleviate stress on joints, improving mobility and reducing pain associated with osteoarthritis.
- Improvements in Quality of Life and Mental Health: Although not diseases per se, weight loss can have a positive impact on quality of life, self-esteem, and symptoms of depression and anxiety.
