Myths and Misconceptions About Bariatric Surgery
Myth: Bariatric surgery is a quick and easy fix for rapid weight loss.
Reality: Surgery for weight reduction is not a miracle procedure. Weight loss surgery is designed to assist the morbidly obese in developing a healthier lifestyle. A surgical weight loss operation is a useful tool for weight loss, but it is a surgical procedure that requires a substantial lifelong commitment. The surgery alone will not help someone lose weight and keep it off. The patient must change eating and exercise habits. Without changes to the daily pattern of eating and activity, the patient is likely to regain the weight over time.
Myth: All bariatric surgery involves "stomach stapling".
Reality: There are many different types of gastrointestinal procedures for weight loss, some of which reduce the functioning size of the stomach and others that bypass parts of the digestive tract, reducing absorption of calories and nutrients. Different types of surgeries offer different results, and some are more suitable for particular people than others.
Myth: Obese and morbidly obese people are lazy and stupid.
Reality: Obese and morbidly obese people suffer from a disease called obesity. Most have tried numerous ways to lose weight and get healthy, but were unsuccessful. Weight loss surgery is usually a last resort, but a necessary option. Unfortunately many obese people suffer discrimination and unwarranted scrutiny and judgment due to their excess weight.
Myth: Bariatric surgery is extremely dangerous.
Reality: Any type of surgery has associated risks, such as complications or even death. But a number of recent advances have helped to minimize risks. Surgeries performed at Saint Mary’s are done laparoscopically with mini-incisions that result in faster healing, less pain, and less scarring. In addition, having the procedure may assist patients in overcoming otherwise life-threatening conditions associated with obesity, including Type II diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol and sleep apnea.
Myth: If I have had previous surgeries, I am not a candidate for laparoscopic surgery.
Reality: You are still a candidate for laparoscopic surgery even if you have had prior “open” surgeries or other minimally invasive surgeries. *Of course each individual case is different and a proper evaluation is needed.
Myth: Certain surgical weight loss operations prevent proper nutrition.
Reality: It is true that most patients must take supplements after certain weight loss operations because the procedure inhibits proper absorption of vitamins and minerals. However, patients who follow their doctor's advice about meal planning can enjoy a nutritionally balanced diet. In many cases, their overall health and well-being is dramatically improved after the operation.
Myth: Follow up care is not necessary.
Reality: To be the most successful follow-up care for at least one year is critical. Patients usually meet two to four times with a health care team member. Team members work to help patients make long-term lifestyle changes.
Myth: Insurance does not pay for bariatric surgery.
Reality: Insurance coverage for weight loss surgery varies by state and insurance provider, but many do cover weight loss surgery. If you are considering weight loss surgery, the first step is to contact your insurance plan to find out if the procedure is covered and what, if any, exceptions may exist. One important point to keep in mind is that obesity and morbid obesity are considered two different health conditions. Many plans will exclude treatment for obesity but will cover treatment for morbid obesity.
Myth: Weight gain after a RNY Gastric Bypass is due to the stomach/pouch stretching back out.
Reality: The stomach or pouch can stretch a little, but what really happens is that the opening at the bottom of the pouch gets stretched allowing food to empty faster out of the stomach causing hunger and the ability to eat more. There are options available to help shrink the opening down again and patients should return to their bariatric surgeon to explore those options.
