Gastric Bypass surgery is one of the most effective tools in treating obesity and its associated health conditions. Obesity has a global impact on your life.
It is linked not only to countless health conditions but also has a significant association with poor mental health. Despite its growing popularity and proven success, many misconceptions surround the procedure.
This can lead to unnecessary hesitation or misunderstandings surrounding the surgery and what it entails. In this article these myths will be debunked so you can be fully informed about the procedure before you make your decision.
What is Gastric Bypass Surgery?
Before talking about the misconceptions its important to understand the procedure. Gastric bypass surgery is a life changing procedure designed to help individuals with obesity lose weight and improve their overall health.
The procedure involves two steps. Firstly, the stomach is divided into a small pouch, decreasing its capacity. Secondly, the surgeon reroutes a portion of the small intestine connecting it directly to the pouch.
This bypass reduces absorption of calories and alters gut hormones to create a feeling of fullness and suppress hunger.
Misconception 1: Getting Weight Loss Surgery is Taking the Easy Way Out.
One of the most common discourses out there about gastric bypass surgery is that it is a ‘shortcut’ or an easy way out for overweight individuals.
This is untrue as gastric bypass requires patients to make lifestyle changes to ensure they get optimum results post-surgery.
Gastric Bypass helps individuals who have struggled to lose weight previously to implement healthy lifestyle changes to lose weight healthily and keep it off.
Individuals who undergo a gastric bypass must adopt permanent lifestyle changes such as a healthy diet and regular physical activity to achieve and maintain success.
Weight loss surgery should be considered as an aid to initiating weight loss but patients must be committed to a healthier lifestyle to reap the rewards from this surgery.
Misconception 2: Weight Loss Surgery is Only About Losing Weight
Whilst weight loss is a large motivating factor in deciding to get weight loss surgery, the impacts of this surgery are felt in all aspects of life.
Losing weight improves overall health and can even reverse some weight related conditions such as type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure. Furthermore, a healthier weight decreases the risk of developing these conditions and others down the line.
As obesity increases the risk of joint problems, high cholesterol and heart disease the risk of these conditions is reduced by losing weight.
The effects are not confined to physical health. Obesity is linked to a variety of mental health issues. Individuals who have undergone weight loss surgery report higher self esteem, reduced instances of depression and overall improvement in their quality of life.
The benefits of this procedure are more than just about appearance, they are about restoring overall health and wellbeing.
Misconception 3: Gastric Bypass is a Dangerous Procedure
Many people have a perception that weight loss surgery is highly risky. While all procedures carry some degree of risk, gastric bypass is a tried and tested procedure that is now done minimally invasively carrying a lower degree of risk than ever before.
Additionally, we conduct thorough pre operative screening to assess the suitability of candidates.
This involves assessing the physical and mental health of candidates and also providing education of the risks and benefits. When performed by a reputable surgeon, gastric bypass is a safe and effective procedure.
Post operatively, you will be fully supported in your weight loss journey to ensure you lose weight at a healthy rate and create new healthy habits that will last a lifetime.
The Auralia team are available to support you every step of the way. You will have access to a variety of supports including dietitians and education on healthier habits.
Conclusion
Gastric Bypass is a powerful and life changing procedure for individuals with obesity but it is not a one size fits all solution or a quick fix. For those considering weight loss surgery, getting in contact and assessing your suitability is the first step to beginning your new, healthier life.
