Bariatric surgery is a life-changing option for those suffering from obesity and the linked health complications it involves. As obesity rates continue to grow globally and certainly at a rapid pace in India, more people are seeking effective ways to shed weight and improve their health.

While bariatric surgery is typically considered a means for removing extra pounds, the advantages go well beyond weight reduction. In this blog, we will examine the health issues that can improve with bariatric surgery, highlighting how these treatments can drastically increase the quality of life for many patients.

What is Bariatric surgery

Bariatric surgery consists of numerous surgical treatments aimed at helping individuals with severe obesity achieve considerable weight reduction. These procedures function by changing the digestive tract, either by lowering the quantity of food one may consume or by reducing nutrient absorption. The most popular forms of bariatric procedures are gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, and duodenal switch.

Typically, bariatric surgery is suggested for persons with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 or higher, or a BMI of 35 or higher accompanied by weight-related health concerns. The fundamental objective of these procedures is not merely to encourage weight reduction but also to enhance general health and well-being. By treating the core causes of obesity, patients might experience major improvements that transcend beyond simply numbers on a scale.

Benefits of Bariatric Surgery Beyond Weight Loss

While significant weight reduction is a fundamental advantage of bariatric surgery, many patients also see improvements in numerous health issues. Here are three primary areas where bariatric surgery may have a favorable impact:

Type 2 Diabetes

Bariatric surgery has a substantial influence on controlling type 2 diabetes, a disease intimately connected to obesity. Here’s how it helps:

• Impact on Diabetes Management:  Many patients report that after having bariatric surgery, their diabetes improves drastically.
• Remission Rates: Numerous studies suggest that some patients obtain remission immediately after the surgery.
• Medication Reduction: The weight reduction associated with procedures like gastric bypass may boost insulin sensitivity and decrease blood sugar levels, allowing many patients to reduce or discontinue their diabetic medicines.

Cardiovascular Health

Obesity severely impacts cardiovascular health, leading to many heart-related disorders. Bariatric surgery can play a crucial role in improving heart health:

• Reducing Heart Risks: Excess weight may contribute to high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and an increased risk of heart disease. Losing weight can lower these risks significantly.
• Post-Surgery Improvements: Post-surgery, many patients have considerable improvements in their blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
• Long-term Benefits: The decrease in body weight alleviates stress on the heart, minimizing the risk of heart-related issues and encouraging a longer, healthier life.

 Joint Pain Relief

Joint discomfort is a widespread condition among persons who are obese, especially in weight-bearing joints. Bariatric surgery can give great comfort in this area:

• Joint Health Impact: Extra weight may lead to osteoarthritis, causing persistent discomfort and restricting mobility.
• Rapid Relief: Many people notice rapid relief in joint discomfort after lowering weight through surgery.
• Increased Mobility: This greater mobility promotes a more active lifestyle, further contributing to general health and well-being.

 Sleep Apnea Improvement

Bariatric surgery significantly impacts sleep apnea, a prevalent obesity-related disorder.

• Understanding Sleep Apnea: Obesity is a substantial risk factor for sleep apnea, defined by disrupted breathing during sleep.
• Surgical Benefits: After bariatric surgery, many patients have reductions in sleep apnea symptoms, typically needing less frequent use of CPAP equipment or reaching full remission.
• Quality of Sleep: Improved sleep quality can improve daily energy levels and general health.

As seen in the Connection Between Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Obesity and its overall impact on health, addressing obesity can lead to noticeable improvements in sleep apnea.

 Psychological Benefits

Bariatric surgery significantly impacts mental health, offering a range of psychological benefits:

• Mental Health improvement: Many people report improvement in mental health post-bariatric surgery. The weight reduction can lead to greater self-esteem and decreased symptoms of despair and anxiety. 
• Social Engagement: With better physical health and body image, patients usually feel more motivated to engage in social activities, boosting their overall well-being.
• Support Systems: Many bariatric facilities provide psychological assistance and counseling, helping patients manage the emotional parts of their weight reduction journey.

Enhanced quality of Life

Bariatric surgery can significantly enhance the quality of life here is how:

• Life Satisfaction: Patients commonly report an improved quality of life post-surgery. The capacity to participate in physical activities, enjoy social connections, and experience enhanced health leads to overall life happiness.
• Increased Activity Levels: With lower pain and greater energy, many persons find themselves more active, indulging in hobbies and activities they previously avoided.
• Long-Term Health Monitoring: Bariatric surgery generally entails continuing health monitoring, which encourages patients to maintain healthy behaviors and remain involved in their health journey.

Read – How obesity affects your mental health for Insights on Obesity & Mental wellbeing.

Conclusion

Bariatric surgery offers transformative health benefits that extend well beyond weight loss, significantly improving conditions such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular health, joint pain, sleep apnea, and mental well-being. For those considering this life-changing option, finding a skilled and experienced surgeon is crucial.

Ansh Obecure stands out as one of the best facilities for Bariatric Surgery in Ahmedabad. With a team of expert surgeons, including Dr. Apurva Vyas, Ansh Obecure is dedicated to providing excellent treatment with precision and care. Their commitment to patient health and well-being makes them a top choice for individuals seeking effective obesity treatment and support on their journey to a healthier life.