Dr. Rohit Suri is a renowned bariatric surgeon who has helped many patients struggling with obesity. Bariatric surgery is a weight loss surgery that involves altering the digestive system to limit the amount of food a person can eat or absorb. The procedure is considered an effective treatment for obesity and its related health conditions. However, like any surgery, it comes with potential risks and benefits that patients should understand before making a decision.
Benefits of Bariatric Surgery
Bariatric surgery has been shown to have numerous benefits for people who are obese. Some of the benefits include:
- Significant weight loss: Patients can lose a significant amount of weight after bariatric surgery, which can lead to improved health outcomes and quality of life.
- Improved health conditions: Bariatric surgery can help improve or resolve many health conditions that are associated with obesity, such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, and joint pain.
- Improved mental health: Many patients report improved mental health after bariatric surgery, such as improved self-esteem and reduced depression and anxiety.
- Long-term weight loss maintenance: Unlike other weight loss methods, bariatric surgery has been shown to have long-term weight loss maintenance. Patients who undergo bariatric surgery can keep their weight off for years if they follow a healthy diet and exercise regularly.
Risks of Bariatric Surgery
While bariatric surgery has numerous benefits, it also comes with potential risks. Some of the risks include:
- Bleeding: Bleeding can occur during or after surgery, which may require blood transfusions or a second surgery to correct.
- Infection: Infection can occur at the incision site, which may require antibiotics or a second procedure to drain the infection.
- Leakage: Leakage can occur at the staple or suture lines, which can lead to infection or other complications.
- Blockage: Blockage can occur in the intestines, which may require additional surgery to correct.
- Nutrient deficiencies: After bariatric surgery, patients may have difficulty absorbing certain nutrients, which can lead to deficiencies. Patients may need to take supplements or follow a specific diet to avoid deficiencies.
Who Qualifies for Bariatric Surgery?
Not everyone who is obese qualifies for bariatric surgery. To qualify, patients must meet certain criteria, such as:
- Body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher, or a BMI of 35 or higher with at least one obesity-related health condition.
- A history of unsuccessful weight loss attempts through diet and exercise.
- No underlying medical or psychological conditions that may interfere with the success of the surgery or recovery.
- A commitment to lifelong lifestyle changes, including a healthy diet and regular exercise.
The Bottom Line
Bariatric surgery can be an effective treatment for obesity and its related health conditions. However, like any surgery, it comes with potential risks and benefits that patients should understand before considering the procedure. Patients who are considering bariatric surgery should talk to their doctor about whether they qualify for the procedure, and what they can expect during and after the surgery. With proper planning and aftercare, bariatric surgery can be a life-changing procedure for people struggling with obesity.
