 | Tracy Mooney-Simon, RN Tracy Mooney-Simon, RN, is the coordinator of the Bariatrics program at Wesley Medical Center. She can be reached at 315-962-2066. Her email address is Tracy.Mooney-Simon@wesleymc.com. If you are considering weight-loss surgery, talk with your primary care physician or visit the Wesley website at www.wesleymc.com |
Health & Medicine
2006-05-01 16:01:00
Considering weight loss surgery?
Question: I’m overweight. Should I consider having surgery to get rid of my excess fat?
ANSWER: As the number of severely overweight people increases in the United States, so does the number of people who have surgery to help lose weight. The rate of gastric bypass surgery, also called "bariatric" surgery, has grown tenfold in the past 10 years.The main reason for having this surgery is not cosmetic. Obesity can contribute to serious health problems including high blood pressure, heart and pulmonary disease, gallbladder and liver disease, diabetes, osteoarthritis, and sleep apnea. Studies show a sharp drop in these conditions after gastric bypass surgery.Gastric bypass surgery involves permanently stapling or sewing the stomach so that only a small portion, about the size of an egg, is able to hold food. Over the following months, weight loss occurs as the stomach quickly becomes full and appetite is reduced. Also, the body absorbs fewer calories and will not easily tolerate foods high in refined sugars and fats. On average, 60 percent of excess weight is lost within six months after surgery and 80 percent within one year.But gastric bypass surgery is not a magic bullet. Risks include bleeding, infection, stomach inflammation, vomiting, diarrhea, and nutritional deficiencies. Follow-up surgery to resolve complications or reduce excessive skin may be needed. Overeating may eventually stretch the stomach, and the weight is regained. And surgery can be expensive; health insurance sometimes covers the cost, but many patients pay $25,000 or more out of their own pocket.Who qualifies for weight-loss surgery?Generally, the surgery is only for people who meet all of the following criteria:• A body mass index (BMI) of 40 or a BMI of 35 along with one or two weight-related health problems. BMI is determined by comparing weight to height. For example, someone who is 5'8" tall and weighs 260 pounds has a BMI of 40.• Weight of 350 pounds or less. Individuals weighing more than 350 pounds are at a greater risk for complications. Since this is a laparoscopic surgery, patients are closely evaluated for their weight and weight distribution. Some weight loss before surgery may be needed.• A documented history of attempts to control weight through a supervised weight-loss program. • Complete medical and psychological evaluations. What happens after surgery?While recovering from the surgery, only low-calorie liquids, pureed foods, nutritional supplements and soft foods that are easily digested can be consumed. Eventually a more normal diet is possible, although in much smaller amounts. Gastric bypass surgery is not a cure; rather, it is a tool to use for a healthier lifestyle. Follow-up nutrition counseling, exercise programs and support groups are available to help make the transition and maintain lifestyle changes.
