Obesity has become an epidemic in the United States and many other countries, and this problem leads to many other health problems. Obesity is measured by calculating one’s BMI, or Body Mass Index. BMI is calculated using your height and weight, and a body mass index above 30 is considered obese. In recent months, several weight loss drugs, such as semaglutide, have skyrocketed in popularity. While those drugs work for some people, bariatric weight loss surgery is sometimes the best option for others. Dive into all the details below with EIM Personal Training about weight loss surgery, including what it is, who can qualify, and how much it costs.
What Is Bariatric Weight Loss Surgery
Bariatric weight loss surgery is a type of surgery designed to help patients lose weight by making changes to their digestive system. There are a few different variations of this weight loss surgery, including gastric bypass, the gastric sleeve, and BPD/DS. The specific variation that is best for you depends on your body and health history, and your physician can help you make that decision. Generally, to qualify for bariatric weight loss surgery, you must have a BMI of at least 40. You may qualify with a BMI between 35 and 40 if you have other obesity-related health issues, like diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, or others. Finally, you must have tried unsuccessfully to lose weight using other methods, you must have been morbidly obese for at least three years, and you must be young and healthy enough to undergo surgery.
Is Weight Loss Surgery Right For You?
Not everyone is a good candidate for weight loss surgery simply because they are overweight. There are many other factors that must be considered when contemplating weight loss surgery. First, you must meet the physical qualifications for the surgery. You are likely not a good candidate if you have a history of blood clotting disorders, severe cardiovascular disease, or any other condition that could cause complications from general anesthesia. In addition to the physical components, there is also a big mental aspect to weight loss surgery as well. You must be motivated and willing to make a lifestyle change, and some doctors require you to show evidence of these changes prior to the surgery. If you feel that you are not mentally ready for the surgery, then it is probably not right for you at the current time.
Prepping For Weight Loss Surgery
There is a lot of preparation that must be done prior to having weight loss surgery. Once your bariatric surgeon has confirmed that you are a good candidate for the procedure, there are several things you must do prior to your surgery date. First, you must stop smoking or using tobacco or nicotine products of any kind, and you must agree to never use them again. You may be required to undergo a psychiatric exam, and you will be required to undergo nutritional counseling. In some cases, you might be required to follow a doctor-supervised diet for three to six months prior to the surgery, and you could be required to lose up to 10% of your current bodyweight prior to the surgery. Having weight loss surgery is an intense procedure and not one that should be taken lightly, and this is the reason why there are many steps to preparing for the surgery.
How To Manage Weight After Weight Loss Surgery
After weight loss surgery, your eating habits must change dramatically. You will not be allowed to eat at all for the first day or two after surgery so that your stomach can begin to heal. Your diet will move from clear liquids to thicker liquids to very soft foods over the first couple of months after surgery. With no complications, you should be able to return to normal foods in about three months. The key to managing your weight after the surgery starts with your overall caloric intake. You should follow the guidelines given to you by your doctor or dietician and not eat more than their recommended amounts. Take small bites of food and eat slowly at each meal, and make sure that you are walking or getting movement each day. If you fall back into your old eating habits, then you will likely start to gain the weight back.
How Much Does Weight Loss Surgery Cost?
If you are considering bariatric weight loss surgery, you are probably wondering how much it will cost. The answer varies based on a few different factors. Initially, you should know that not all insurance plans will cover weight loss surgery. Next, keep in mind that the cost of this surgery can vary from $15,000 to $25,000, depending on the type of surgery that is required. Other factors that affect the cost of your procedure can include the surgeon you choose, the hospital you will use, and the number of evaluations that are required prior to the surgery. Some facilities may be able to assist you in getting a loan to help with the financial aspect of weight loss surgery, but many facilities require payment of the full amount prior to the date of your surgery.
Nutrition And Personal Training With EIM
Most weight loss surgeons require their patients to legitimately try traditional weight loss methods before having weight loss surgery. EIM Personal Training can help with both your nutrition and fitness routine. Through a consistent exercise and nutrition plan, our trainers can help you lose weight and increase your energy levels. Before you decide on weight loss surgery, contact us today to see how we can help!