When you think of weight loss or bariatric surgery, you think of incredible before and after photos. Yes, this surgery is primarily about weight loss. But what you may not know are all the other benefits associated with surgery.
Dr. Samer Mattar, a bariatric surgeon at the Baylor Medicine Center for Weight Loss and Metabolic in Houston, wants his patients to understand the many benefits of weight loss surgery. Many are physical, but the rewards go beyond weight loss.
“There are many life-changing consequences from bariatric surgery,” says Mattar. “Patients not only feel better physically, but the surgery improves their quality of life. Parents who were unable to play with their children are now able to follow them.” Traveling and exploring has become more enjoyable because they can fit in their seats or go on hikes with their families.They also attributed savings in medications and medical visits as a result of their weight loss.”
Lisa Elsie, a recent weight loss surgery patient, describes the many benefits she experienced. I am planning a vacation to do activities.I feel more confident in myself.”
Based on patient experience and research, weight loss surgery has many benefits. Here are six benefits of bariatric surgery other than weight loss:
- Reverse Type 2 Diabetes: Studies show that most people who have bariatric surgery do not need insulin or other related drugs for at least 3 years after weight loss surgery.
- Reduces risk of heart disease: Bariatric surgery is known to be the most effective way to achieve long-term weight loss and significantly reduce the risk of heart disease. It is closely related to health conditions such as arterial disease, high blood pressure, arrhythmia, and venous thromboembolism. When a person loses weight, blood pressure and cholesterol levels return to normal or near normal, reducing the risk of heart problems. Additionally, recent studies have shown that bariatric surgery not only reduces the risk of heart disease, but also serious adverse cardiovascular events such as stroke and heart attack.
- Reduce cancer risk: according to a new study published in jamObese adults who underwent bariatric surgery had a 32% lower chance of getting cancer and a 48% lower risk of dying from cancer than those who did not.
- Boosts emotional health: Studies show bariatric surgery reduces depression by 32.7%. This may be because patients feel better about themselves after losing a lot of weight. This will likely affect their quality of life as well. Lisa says: My kids enjoy it too. they see the difference in me Her daughter says, “Mom, we have more fun together!” I say yes – because I am happier.
- Eliminate sleep apnea: About 80% of patients can stop using CPAP machines and experience sleep apnea remission within a year after surgery.
- Improved fertility: Weight loss may improve fertility, and one study has shown a lower risk of miscarriage after bariatric surgery.
Overall, there are many reasons to consider weight loss surgery. Ask your doctor if you would be a good candidate or if you would like to attend a free weight loss seminar.
Tiffany Harston, Correspondent, Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery
