How Weight loss surgery really works

How Weight loss surgery really works

The results of the most recent National Weight Loss Surgery Study (NWLS) report published in 2003 showed that weight loss surgery may be an effective treatment for morbid obesity. Even though bariatric surgery is a well-established procedure, there are still many questions that are unanswered about the long-term efficacy of weight loss surgery, ranging from whether the surgery helps with the reduction of heart disease to whether it leads to weight re-gaining after five years. This report was based on a group of 2,000 obese patients who were randomly allocated to one of three treatments: 1) a surgery group that had bariatric surgery, 2) a dietary group that followed a low-calorie diet, and 3) a medical group that received only counseling and advice

The most dramatic effects of weight loss surgery occur after the first year. After this time you will probably only lose 1 to 2 kg a year (2.2 to 4.4 pounds) due to the fact that you will have put on weight during the first year. The biggest problem with weight loss surgery is the inability to maintain lower body weight after the first two years. This is due to the fact that the body will eventually adapt to the new weight loss level, meaning that you will gain weight even if you follow a very strict diet.

The surgery involves taking out part of the stomach. In some cases, the whole stomach can also be removed. Once the stomach has been removed, a pouch is formed to hold food' 

This chapter will critically synthesize the evidence on the effects of bariatric surgery, weight loss surgery (WLS) on health and weight loss, as well as the psychological and social changes associated with it.

What are the benefits and risks of weight loss surgery? According to the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS), the only surgical solution for serious obesity, weight loss surgery is the most effective and durable treatment for those whose BMI is greater than 40 or greater than 30 with a co-morbid condition. Many patients that are morbidly obese (i.e. more than 100 pounds overweight) experience a variety of health issues, such as elevated blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea, and other cardiovascular diseases. 

 

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