Obesity is an increasing health issue in today’s society. Several factors have weighed into this condition. The first is the standard Western diet, which has too many fats, sugars, oils and processed foods. Most people don’t include enough fruits and vegetables, nuts and seeds in their daily intake. Another factor is the decline in exercise and active hobbies and jobs. Today people enjoy watching television and playing computer games rather than playing football or basketball.
In line with our fast paced society people are also looking for answers to their weight loss that are quick, painless and easy. Weight loss surgeries fit those needs to a T.
Weight loss surgery is not meant for those who are just slightly overweight, but only for those who are obese. Clients who have faced obesity for years, tried medications and diet plans may find that weight loss surgery is an alternative solution.
There are several different types of surgeries available. Your surgeon is your best resource as to the type of surgery that may work best for your body type, weight loss and lifestyle. Be sure to ask you doctor all of your questions and make him aware of all of your doubts. Once the weight loss surgery is completed there is follow up processes that must be followed to have a successful outcome. If your doctor knows your doubts and concerns, he can help you make a better choice of surgeries that will fit your lifestyle and plans.
Before you undergo any surgery, you are required to sign an informed consent form. This document says you understand the surgery, the consequences, and the possible side effects and risks of the surgical procedure. Although the success rate for most weight loss surgery is high, there are risks and complications that you should discuss with your doctor.
All surgical procedures have their own list of possible complications and post surgical care. There are certain factors a client must consider before any weight loss surgery. If you don’t meet these criteria then it may increase your risks and problems post-surgically compared to the possible benefits of having the surgery.
Clients should be morbidly obese. That means that a client should be at least 100 pounds over the ideal body weight. Weight loss surgery should not be considered for people who have less than 100 pounds to lose. There also might be medical problems that are associated with obesity such as diabetes, swelling or pain that will not disqualify a client but rather improve their qualifications for a weight loss surgery. This is because, although the complications will increase their risk of surgery these factors won’t improve unless, and until, the client loses weight.
Clients should have been fighting the obesity for five or more years with a body mass index of 40 or greater. You should be able to demonstrate to your doctor that you have not been able to lose weight by other more conventional methods. Your doctor may ask that you make another attempt to lose weight using other methods for six months while keeping a calendar or diary to record your efforts.
Clients will want to check with their insurance company for coverage since most companies do not cover weight loss surgery. With this knowledge the client can negotiate a preset rate with the hospital and doctor before the surgery to keep the client cost down.
Prior to the weight loss surgery, the doctor will be very clear about the risks and complications that can happen. They may also ask you to undergo a quick examination by a psychiatrist to be certain that you are mentally stable to withstand the stressors and make the changes necessary to your lifestyle and behavior following the surgery.
Weight loss surgery is an option for people who are morbidly obese, have been for more than five years and have had little to no success using other methods to lose weight. Although the success rate can be high, the client must also be prepared to make the necessary lifestyle and nutrition habit changes to lose weight.
The weight loss happens the same way it does with any other program. You must eat less than you burn. With the weight loss surgery, you have the added advantage of decreased hunger pangs and feeling full faster. It does not, however, remove food cravings or your relationship with food. Those issues must be addressed to make this program work.
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