When discussing slimming and fitness, it's important to understand their definitions. Physical fitness refers to a state of health and well-being influenced by occupations and daily activities. Slimming, on the other hand, is the process of attempting to lose weight by consuming less food. If you have struggled with weight loss in the past and are classified as overweight, this article from the Doctour website presents some surgical options that could be suitable for you.
Weight-loss surgery
Weight loss surgery, also called bariatric or metabolic surgery, is sometimes used as a treatment for people who are very obese. It can lead to significant weight loss and help improve many obesity-related conditions, such as type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure. But it's a major operation and in most cases should only be considered after trying to lose weight through a healthy diet and exercise.
Bariatric surgery
Gastric bypass and other weight-loss surgeries (known collectively as bariatric surgery) involve making changes to your digestive system to help you lose weight. Bariatric surgery should only be done when diet and exercise haven't worked or when you’re experiencing serious health problems because of your weight. Some procedures limit how much you can eat. Other procedures work by reducing the body's ability to absorb nutrients. Some procedures do both.
Why is bariatric surgery performed?
This procedure can help you lose excess weight and reduce your risk of life-threatening weight-related health problems, including:
Heart disease and stroke
High blood pressure
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)
Sleep apnea
Type 2 diabetes
Who is a good candidate for bariatric surgery?
Your body mass index (BMI) is 40 or higher (extreme obesity).
Your BMI is 35 to 39.9 (obesity), and you have a serious weight-related health problem, such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or severe sleep apnea.
Bariatric surgery isn't for everyone who is severely overweight. You may need to meet certain medical guidelines to qualify for weight-loss surgery. You likely will have an extensive screening process to see if you qualify. You must also be willing to make permanent changes to lead a healthier lifestyle. You may be required to participate in long-term follow-up plans that include monitoring your nutrition, your lifestyle and behavior, and your medical conditions.
What are the risks of bariatric surgery?
As with any major procedure, bariatric surgery poses potential health risks, both in the short term and long term. Risks associated with the surgical procedure can include:
Excessive bleeding
Infection
Adverse reactions to anesthesia
Blood clots
Lung or breathing problems
Leaks in your gastrointestinal system
Death (rare)
Longer-term risks and complications of weight-loss surgery vary depending on the type of surgery. They can include:
Bowel obstruction
Dumping syndrome, which leads to diarrhea, flushing, lightheadedness, nausea, or vomiting
Gallstones
Hernias
Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)
Malnutrition
Ulcers
Vomiting
Acid reflux
The need for a second, or revision, surgery, or procedure
Death (rare)
Types of bariatric surgery
Each type of bariatric surgery has pros and cons. Here's a look at common types of bariatric surgery:
Roux-en-Y (roo-en-wy) gastric bypass
This procedure is the most common method of gastric bypass. This surgery is typically not reversible. It works by decreasing the amount of food you can eat in one sitting and reducing the absorption of nutrients.
Sleeve gastrectomy
With sleeve gastrectomy, about 80% of the stomach is removed, leaving a long, tube-like pouch. This smaller stomach can't hold as much food. It also produces less appetite-regulating hormone ghrelin, which may lessen your desire to eat. Advantages of this procedure include significant weight loss and no rerouting of the intestines.
Biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch
This is a two-part surgery in which the first step involves performing a procedure similar to a sleeve gastrectomy. The second surgery involves connecting the end portion of the intestine to the duodenum near the stomach, bypassing the majority of the intestine, limiting how much you can eat, and reducing the absorption of nutrients. While it is extremely effective, it has a greater risk, including malnutrition and vitamin deficiencies.
Life after weight loss surgery
Weight loss surgery can achieve dramatic weight loss, but it's not a cure for obesity on its own. You'll need to commit to making permanent lifestyle changes after surgery to avoid putting weight back on. You'll need to:
Change your diet: You'll be on a liquid or soft food diet in the weeks after surgery but will gradually move onto a normal balanced diet that you need to stay on for life.
Exercise regularly: Once you've recovered from surgery, you'll be advised to start an exercise plan and continue it for life.
Attend regular follow-up: Appointments to check how things are going after surgery and get advice or support if you need it. Women who have weight loss surgery will also usually need to avoid becoming pregnant during the first 12 to 18 months after surgery.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the right slimming and fitness surgery for you depends on various factors including your current health status, body composition, lifestyle, and personal goals. Procedures such as liposuction, tummy tuck, body lift, or bariatric surgeries like gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy, each have their own benefits and risks. It’s crucial to have a thorough discussion with a qualified healthcare provider to understand the implications of each procedure. Remember, surgery is just one part of the journey. A balanced diet, regular exercise, and a healthy lifestyle are equally important for maintaining the results post-surgery. Ultimately, the right procedure for you should align with your long-term health and wellness goals.
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