by Catherine Barbaro

Created on: September 29, 2008   Last Updated: October 06, 2008

Surgery to assist weight loss is a tool that is workable for some obese patients but not everyone. There are a number of bariatric (weight loss) surgeries available each with its own pros, cons and risks. Bariatric surgery should not generally be considered by anyone who is not classified as morbidly obese. A morbidly obese individual is someone with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of at least 40 which is generally 100 pounds overweight for a man and 80 pounds overweight for a woman. However, a slightly lower BMI can be considered for surgery if there are grave obesity-related health issues like Type 2 Diabetes or sleep apnea.

Beyond the morbid obesity classification, there are factors that must be considered. The surgery is not an easy way out of a lifestyle created health situation. It is a tool that must be properly utilized. Each surgery has a set of rules that must be adhered to or health can seriously be jeopardized. Noncompliant patients should not consider the possibility of bariatric surgery. Weight loss surgery is designed to forever change how a patient eats. Reputable surgeons require physiological screenings prior to surgery to determine whether or not a patient is mentally prepared for the drastic lifestyle and physiological change, but it is still up to the patient to make the choices that are best for them.

Although several bariatric surgeries are commonly performed in the United States and they each have a unique considerations, generally the pros and cons are as follows:

Cons

Major surgery with recovery time necessary

Risk of post surgery issues (even death) as with all major surgeries

Overeating causes vomiting

Vitamin supplementation is mandatory or nutrient deficient diseases or death can occur

Drastic lifestyle change

No alcohol for the first year after surgery

Lifelong commitment to follow up with doctors including lab work

Pros:

Surgery is often performed laparoscopically

Drastic and rapid weight loss

Diabetes, sleep apnea, asthma and other obesity-related health issues disappear or improve

Ability to function in normal activities improves (walking, breathing, fitting in chairs comfortably, getting up and down from the floor)

There are other considerations as to whether bariatric surgery is the best choice for an individual. It is important to consult a physician to rule out any physiological causes of weight gain. Weight loss surgery should not be considered as the first option. Many insurances cover the surgery but often require a 6 month documentation that alternative methods of weight loss have been attempted.

Beyond the decision to have surgery is the decision of what kind of surgery to have and who to choose as the surgeon. National statistics of success and complications are an average of very experienced and successful doctors and those who have little success or experience. It is important to find out each surgeon personal statistics of complications, success, and mortality. The website www.obesityhelp.com has a great deal of resources that explain the various surgeries and offer forums where those who have had surgery and those that are considering the surgery interact and answer questions on a personal level. The website also is an excellent resource for finding support groups that meet all around the country. There is even a section for those who do not seek surgery as their choice.

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