As you know, being overweight exposes you to major health problems, such as diabetes, heart disease, cancer, and stroke. It can also affect your self-esteem, leading to emotional distress. If you have tried other weight loss strategies without success, maybe you should think about undergoing weight loss surgery.
How Weight Loss Surgery Works
Bariatric surgery changes the function and shape of your digestive system. The procedure limits the amount of food you can eat and the number of nutrients that your body can absorb.
Don't choose weight loss surgery because your friend underwent it successfully. This procedure is not for everyone. The decision should be based on several factors and ought to be reached in consultation with your doctor.
Three Main Factors That You Should Consider
1. Have You Exhausted Other Options?
Weight loss surgery is an effective weight loss strategy but should be considered after all other options have been exhausted. Weight loss is a process that starts with changing one's lifestyle. Before going for bariatric surgery, try other weight loss methods, such as adjusting diet and exercising for at least six months.
2. The Cost
Bariatric surgery can be financially overwhelming if you are not adequately prepared. The average cost for gastric bypass in the United States is $23,000, while a sleeve gastrectomy surgery will cost you as much as $14,900. Understanding the cost is vital in choosing the weight loss procedure to undertake. The information also helps in consulting your health insurance provider to see what they can cover. These steps cushion you from any surgery-related financial distress.
3. Different Types of Bariatric Surgery
Once you are financially prepared, conduct a thorough research about different types of weight loss surgeries available in your area. The two main types are gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy. Gastric bypass is a procedure that creates a small pouch on the upper part of the stomach. The pouch ensures that food is only collected there, limiting what you eat and drink. On the other hand, sleeve gastrectomy shrinks the stomach by removing part of it.
You should discuss these two options with your doctor to understand the benefits and risks of each. The knowledge would also be fundamental in settling in a procedure that fits your budget and health goals.
Considering weight loss surgery is a big decision that requires critical thought. You need to consult a board-certified bariatric surgeon to get advice about available options, risks and benefits of each, and the cost.
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