Bariatric surgery is usually considered a last resort for those struggling with severe obesity, especially those who fail to lose weight through traditional means, such as dieting and exercise. Obesity is a serious problem with grave long-term health consequences, such as high blood pressure, cardiovascular issues, type 2 diabetes, depression, and much more.
When all traditional methods fail, bariatric surgery is an effective means of achieving significant, sustainable weight loss. An increasing body of evidence shows that bariatric surgery can lead to a remission of type 2 diabetes and improve overall health. When performed by skilled experts like those at NJ Advanced Surgical Solutions, bariatric surgery can be a life-affirming procedure.
This article highlights the long-term health benefits of bariatric surgery.
Sustainable Weight Loss & Weight Management
One of the biggest challenges individuals face when attempting weight loss is sustaining the results. Traditional weight loss methods may produce short-term results, but the results are often transient, and patients regain weight shortly after the program ends. However, bariatric surgeries address the physiological factors that make weight management challenging, thus leading to more sustainable results.
A long-term study conducted by the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) found that 12 years post-surgery, over 70% of participants retained more than 20% of their weight loss, and 40% maintained a weight loss greater than 30%. This highlights the fact that bariatric surgery is an effective means of losing excess weight and achieving long-term weight stability.
Prevention & Remission Of Type 2 Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes is one of the greatest health risks of obesity. In fact, the risk of type 2 diabetes is seven times higher in obese individuals compared to those of healthy weight. Bariatric surgery can help prevent type 2 diabetes and support the remission of existing diabetes.
The NIDDK study mentioned previously also revealed a significant reduction in new-onset type 2 diabetes—over 90%—among those who underwent the surgery. Moreover, participants with pre-existing diabetes were more likely to experience remission, especially if they hadn’t reached the stage of requiring medication. Considering the long-term health risks and challenges associated with type 2 diabetes, bariatric surgery can be a potentially life-saving procedure that dramatically improves the patient’s quality of life.
Improvement In Obesity-Related Conditions
Severe obesity often comes hand-in-hand with a slew of other health issues. Bariatric surgery has shown efficacy in either improving or entirely curing these conditions. According to UCI Health, a majority of patients who underwent bariatric surgery saw improvements in conditions like high blood pressure, sleep apnea, asthma, arthritis, and cholesterol levels. Such health improvements further emphasize the wide-ranging benefits of the procedure.
Improved Metabolism & Physical Activity
After bariatric surgery, many patients experience a surge in their metabolism. The metabolic boost, coupled with weight loss, can encourage patients to increase their activity levels and lead a healthier lifestyle. Without the self-consciousness that obese individuals often experience, activities like biking, walking, and swimming become more enjoyable. This active lifestyle helps maintain weight and improves overall well-being and cardiovascular health.
Improved Quality Of Life
Beyond the physical health benefits, bariatric surgery has profound effects on patients’ psychological and emotional well-being. Many report a marked improvement in their quality of life post-surgery. This includes better mobility, reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety, heightened self-esteem, and improved social interactions. Bariatric surgery can effectively improve most aspects of the patient’s life, from their physical well-being to their mental health, professional standing, and social life.
The decision to undergo bariatric surgery should never be made lightly. After all, it’s a serious surgical procedure, and all patients should be aware of the potential risks and side effects. However, if you’re struggling to lose weight and suffer from obesity-related health conditions, the long-term health benefits offered by bariatric surgery are undeniable. For more information on bariatric surgery and its benefits, consult with the experts at NJ Advanced Surgical Solutions.