Weight Loss Surgery
According to the National Center for Health Statistics, more than one-third of adults are obese, which can lead to life-shortening complications such as heart disease and stroke. Bariatric medicine deals with treatments for obesity, including weight loss surgery (WLS).
Weight loss surgery is a treatment option for morbidly obese people with a BMI of 40+. In addition, obese people with a BMI of 35+ and other obesity-related conditions such as diabetes or sleep apnea may also qualify for surgery.
Most Popular Weight Loss Surgery Topics:
Gastric Bypass |
Gastric Band |
Sleeve Gastrectomy |
Duodenal Switch |
Types of Weight loss surgery
Weight Loss Surgery Guides
There are several types of weight loss surgeries. Some bariatric procedures limit the amount of food a person can eat, while other treatments alter the way food is digested. Each method is effective for different individuals; for example, people who have trouble with portion sizes may benefit from a restrictive surgery, while chronic snackers may see a greater benefit from a malabsorptive procedure that limits the amount of nutrients that are absorbed into the body.
Calculate Your BMI
The BMI calculator below will show you what your current BMI is, all you need to do is input your height and weight and click on the "what's my BMI" button. A healthy BMI is anything between 18-24.9, overweight is between 25-29.9, obese is between 30-39.9 and anything 40+ is classed as morbidly obese.
Insurance coverage for weight loss surgery
Americans spend an estimated $147 billion annually on obesity-related health care costs. As a result, some insurance companies cover weight loss surgery to decrease long-term spending on obese patients. Coverage varies by provider.
Prospective patients can also seek out a private bariatric surgeon and finance the procedure through self-pay or medical credit.
After weight loss surgery
A person's body undergoes many changes after weight loss surgery. Because weight loss is generally very rapid following bariatric surgery, patients may be left with loose skin. Once a bariatric patient reaches his or her weight loss goal, plastic surgery can be considered to remove the excess skin.
Weight loss surgery is a life-changing operation. With the exception of the Lap band, all weight loss surgeries are permanent. Post-WLS patients are more likely to keep the weight off if they practice healthy eating habits and exercise regularly. Many weight loss surgery patients also find support groups and therapy helpful.
More about weight loss surgery on RealSelf:
- Gastric Bypass FAQ
- Top 10 Bariatric Surgery Tips
- Preparations for Life After Bariatric Surgery
- How Long Should I Wait After Bariatric Surgery Before I Get Plastic Surgery?