Benefits of Weight Loss Surgery:

There is no doubt that when a person is overweight or obese, they are risking a whole host of medical issues. Most Americans try to lose weight but often traditional diet and exercise is unsustainable. Currently there is only one long-term proven and effective form on weight loss – bariatric surgery. Weight loss surgery is the last resort for those who have not been able to lose weight otherwise. Not everyone qualifies for bariatric surgery, however for those who are candidates for one of the procedures, the benefits of weight loss surgery cannot be understated. Some of the most compelling benefits follow:

1. Disease resolution or improvement.
   Shortly after weight loss surgery many patients will begin to reap the most important benefits of surgical intervention. Depending on the procedure, various diseases caused by obesity can be resolved or improved. In the majority of patients, type-2 diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure and sleep apnea are improved or resolved.
2. Joint Pain Improvement
   As the patient begins to lose weight, some of the stress and strain placed on the patient’s joints is relieved. Relieving this stress allows for less painful movements
3. Life Expectancy Increases
   Simply put, those who are obese have a shorter life expectancy because of their weight. Weight loss surgery can reduce the risk of premature death significantly.
4. Reduced Medical Care Costs
   One of the most tangible benefits of losing weight long term is the possibility of reducing the cost of medical care and medication as the diseases associated with obesity are improved or resolved. Many of our patients are happy to learn that they may not need many of their medications and are able to visit the doctor less frequently.
5. Increased Mobility
   Obese people generally suffer from mobility issues because of their size. Whether it be in a plane, in a movie theatre, walking down the street or tying a shoe, a mobile life is easier once some of the weight has been lost.
6. Increased Quality of Life
   Many of our patients have been able to increase their self-esteem, fight off depression and start living a more normal life as a result of their weight loss. Patients may find new social and work opportunities because of their newfound confidence.

And of course in the case of the Lap-Band and Realize Band, the procedure is adjustable and even reversible.

Of course, weight loss surgery is still major surgery that comes with risks. We ask that you speak to you bariatric program to find out more about the risks of surgery.