Is Surgery for You?
Bariatric surgery may be the next step for people who remain severely obese after trying nonsurgical approaches, or for people who have an obesity-related disease. Surgery to produce weight loss is a serious undertaking. We invite you to read Bariatric Surgery for Severe Obesity, published by the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.
Anyone thinking about undergoing this type of operation should understand what it involves. Answers to the following questions may help you decide whether weight-loss surgery is right for you. Are you:
- unlikely to lose weight or keep weight off long-term with nonsurgical measures
- well informed about the surgical procedure and the effects of treatment
- determined to lose weight and improve your health
- aware of how your life may change after the operation (adjustment to the side effects of the operation, including the need to chew food well and inability to eat large meals)
- aware of the potential for serious complications, dietary restrictions, and occasional failures
- committed to lifelong medical follow-up and vitamin/mineral supplementation
Cheryl, RN Manager
Nursing Operations
Lost 145 lbs. in 17 months and has kept it off!
“As a nurse I am worried about my overall health. I had high blood pressure and needed medication to control it. Since surgery, I no longer need medication, I no longer get short of breath, I feel amazing and have a whole new life.”
Weight Loss Self Care Center
Be sure to check out our online self care center for weight loss for more helpful information. The interactive interview(s) helps you determine what a healthy weight is for you. You will find hundreds of articles on your body, balance in life, eating well, activity and attitude.
Remember: There are no guarantees for any method, including surgery, to produce and maintain weight loss. Success is possible only with maximum cooperation and commitment to behavioral change and medical follow-up -- and this cooperation and commitment must be carried out for the rest of your life.
You may be a candidate for surgery if you have a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or more; or a BMI of 35 and above, and a serious obesity-related health problem such as heart disease or type 2 diabetes. You can calculate your BMI by using our online calculator. Also check the resources link on the right to explore more information on gastrointestinal surgery, weight loss, and related health information.
