8 bariatric surgery myths
Bariatric surgery is a weight loss procedure that can help improve a range of health issues associated with obesity, such as diabetes, hypertension and sleep apnea.
"There are a few different bariatric procedure options available, all with the goal of helping you meet your wellness goals," says Samantha Witte, MD, a bariatric surgeon at Main Line Health.
Some some procedures change the way the body absorbs calories, some restrict how much food can be consumed and some do both.
Although bariatric surgery is common in the United States, there are several myths around the procedures. Let's dive in and debunk them:
1. Bariatric surgery is risky
All types of surgical procedures come with a level of risk; however, modern technology, including minimally invasive techniques, has made bariatric procedures much safer than they used to be.
Less than 2% of patients will have a major complication. And in most cases, surgery is outpatient, with most people going home within a day.
2. Results are immediate
It's a common misconception that weight loss results are immediate after bariatric surgery. "In fact, patients look the same the day after surgery as the day before it," says Dr. Witte.
Instead, the most rapid weight loss occurs within the first six months after the procedure as patients put in the other work needed to lose weight. Results largely depend on long-term lifestyle habits.
3. Exercise and diet produce longer-lasting results
Bariatric surgery is a tool to help people lose weight, but it doesn't guarantee weight loss. That requires lifestyle modification. Without other changes, people can regain the weight that they lose.
"The difference is that whatever effort you put into exercise and diet, you get a lot more back for it after a bariatric procedure than if you were doing it on your own," Dr. Witte notes.
4. You can't eat normally after surgery
There is a restrictive component to bariatric surgery because the procedures cause patients to feel full faster. Bariatric surgery also impacts gut hormones, causing patients to have less of an appetite.
There are also certain restrictions during the healing process, but after that period, no foods are off limits. We just recommend eating a healthy diet.
5. Anyone can get bariatric surgery
Bariatric surgery is not for everyone. People with a body mass index (BMI) greater than or equal to 40 or a BMI greater than or equal to 35 with at least one weight-related medical problem qualify for health insurance coverage.
People with lower BMIs who have comorbidities may also benefit from bariatric surgery, although insurance in the United States may not cover it.
6. Bariatric surgery is expensive
Though the out-of-pocket cost for bariatric surgery can be steep, many insurance plans cover it for patients who meet the criteria. Work with your health care team to understand costs and coverage before you pursue bariatric surgery.
7. You can't get pregnant after bariatric surgery
Bariatric surgery improves fertility for a lot of people, especially for those with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
"There's absolutely no reason why you can't carry a healthy pregnancy to term after a bariatric procedure," says Dr. Witte.
8. Bariatric surgery is purely cosmetic
Weight loss is almost a secondary benefit of bariatric surgery. Its primary purpose is to improve health conditions associated with obesity. After bariatric surgery, many patients with diabetes become able to control it with diet alone. Sleep apnea cases may be resolved, and hypertension is often eliminated.
"Across the board, all of these metabolic disorders that come with obesity are improved after bariatric surgery," says Dr. Witte.
Is bariatric surgery right for you?
Main Line Health has a variety of bariatric surgery options to help you manage your weight and your health.
About the Comprehensive Weight and Wellness Program
Main Line Health's Bariatric Center is part of our Comprehensive Weight and Wellness Program, which was established to address the disease burden of obesity in our community. The program provides expertise in all evidence-based medical and surgical approaches to achieving a healthy weight, with a focus on helping patients reduce obesity-related health risks, improve overall health and quality of life, and commit to a healthy lifestyle.
For more information or to schedule a consultation, call 484.476.6230.
Interested joining us for an upcoming bariatric surgery information session?