1Why should I consider having weight loss surgery?
Some people are unaware of how extremely harmful obesity is to a person’s health. A person who is 40% overweight has double the risk of dying prematurely than an average weight person.
There are multiple life threatening diseases linked to obesity, including: Cancer, Heart disease, High blood pressure, Stroke and Obstructive sleep apnea.
Research has shown that the risk of death related to these conditions returns to a normal level after weight loss. After the first six months many patients no longer have a need to take their medications for these conditions. Furthermore, female patients previously struggling with fertility issues increase their chances to conceive.
2Who may be eligible for weight loss surgery?
Individuals who are between 16 and 70 years old and are struggling with obesity who present related comorbidities as well as those who have tried other forms of weight loss treatments, or are 100 pounds overweight regardless of comorbidities, may be candidates for weight loss surgery.
Women who may be planning on becoming pregnant must comply with a waiting period of at least 18 months to two years after their bariatric surgery. Due to the rapid weight loss and decreased nutritional intake a pregnancy may be highly dangerous for you and the developing fetus.
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3How many days will it take to recover from bariatric surgery?
Most patients recover from surgery within two to four days.
4Will I receive support from the surgeons and staff after my bariatric surgery?
The Obesity Free Life Bariatrics health care team is there to guide patients after each procedure. Dr. Venecia Hernandez Leon is committed to the well being of each patient and will maintain the follow up program during the first two years to check overall physical and mental health, metabolism and nutritional status.
5How much weight do you lose after bariatric surgery?
Most patients can expect to lose between 70 to 90 percent of their excess body weight within the first two years following bariatric surgery.
6Are there dietary restrictions after bariatric surgery?
After surgery patients will have a specific diet for at least a month and a half while their stomachs adapt to their new structure, the team at Obesity Free Life Bariatrics will work directly with weight loss surgery patients to help them plan appropriate meals.
7Can you regain weight after bariatric surgery?
Although weight loss surgery is certified as an efficient tool for maintaining weight loss in overweight and obese patients, there are no guarantees with any method of weight loss, even surgery. For permanent success patients must be diligent in leading a healthy active life and consuming a balanced diet.
8Are there risks to bariatric surgery?
Different procedures involve different risks, and depending upon your individual circumstances, your risks may be higher or lower than average. Dr. Venecia Hernandez Leon will discuss these risks during your consultation so you can make an informed choice.
9Can bariatric procedures be reversed?
Laparoscopic gastric banding surgery is reversible in a minimally invasive manner. Gastric bypass surgery is potentially reversible. Reversal procedures involve a considerable amount of added risks compared to the initial bariatric surgery.
