The weight loss surgeries are collectively called bariatric surgery and among the common form is gastric bypass. The majority of surgeons prefer the gastric bypass due to the fact that it comes with fewer complications as compared with other types. The procedure is not for all people who are overweight. There are medical guidelines that one has to meet to qualify. There will be an extensive screening process to see if you do qualify.
Once one has decided that they will go for the procedure, they will need to be ready for permanent changes for them to lead healthy lifestyles. There will be long term follow up plans to ensure that patients lose weight as was planned. There will be close monitoring of their nutrition. Weight loss surgeries are normally very costly and thus it is important to check of it is covered by your insurance policy.
If one qualifies for the procedure, the doctor will give them instructions on how they should prepare for treatment. Normally, several lab tests will be required before surgery is conducted. Patients will not be required to drink or eat anything and will only do so as stated. Medications that they can take will also be restricted. Some will be required to begin physical activity programs, while tobacco smokers are expected to quit.
The treatment will be done under general anesthesia. It means that patients will be in an unconscious state when the surgery is being done. Specifics of the procedure are different for every individual and depend on the chosen procedure. One will be required to be in hospital for some days after the surgical procedure as the doctor monitors their condition.
For some time after treatment, patients will not be allowed to drink or eat anything. This will be so that the digestive system heals. This will take two days or so, after which one should follow a strict diet for three or so months. During the three months, one will start by taking only liquids before progressing slowly to regular foods.
The surgeries may fail to work as was hoped. For example, the adjustable bands may not work well. If these procedures do not work as was hoped, one may not lose weight and there may be serious health problems. It is important that the doctor is informed if one realizes that they are not losing weight as is expected.
There is also the possibility that one gains weight rather than losing as was expected. One reason for this is when patients fail to follow instructions on lifestyle changes. Changes in diet will have to be adhered to.
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