5 Myths About Weight Loss Surgery
The decision to undergo weight loss surgery and the lifestyle changes necessary for long-term success is one of the most significant ones a patient will make during his or her lifetime. As it is with any big decision, it’s important to get the facts right and to dispel any myths in the process.
Myth 1: Weight loss surgery requires an inpatient hospital stay
Most surgical weight loss procedures are performed on an outpatient basis. Some procedures require a hospital stay, but that depends on the procedure the patient undergoes, age, health and other factors. So staying overnight in the hospital isn’t a sure thing.
Myth 2: Surgery is an “easy way out” when it comes to losing weight
There isn’t an easy way to lose a significant amount of weight. Losing weight following weight loss surgery still requires lifestyle changes, including eating better and exercising more. You’ll need to commit to new habits and stick to them to raise your chances of long-term success.
Myth 3: You won’t be able to eat anything that tastes good after weight loss surgery
Most patients can eat a wide variety foods after surgery. It will take time to add foods back into their diet. But, over time, many great tasting foods can be part of a post-surgery diet. You’ll need to eat those foods in smaller quantities and more slowly, but they can still be part of your diet.
Myth 4: You must weigh over 300 lbs. for weight loss surgery to be an option
Your weight isn’t the only factor when it comes to determining whether weight loss is right for you. Many of your health conditions come in to the decision making process, and a host of new studies show weight loss surgery can be a key part of treating various significant health issues.
Myth 5: You are going to be out of work or a long time to recover from surgery
Not true. Most patients recover from weight loss surgery within just a few weeks. Some patients can get up and moving more quickly, returning to work and normal activity within just a few days. Recovery times are unique to every patient, and are affected by a patient’s current health, the specific weight loss surgical procedure done, age and how quickly your body tends to heal overall.
Weight loss surgery is only the beginning. It is a journey to a new life and one that we, as your physicians, should be a part of the entire way. So, whenever you have a question or concern, please call or email us whether your surgery was 5 days ago, 5 months ago or 5 years back. We’re here for you and want to do everything we an to ensure long-term positive results for you.