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In situations when non-surgical methods do not help morbidly obese persons lose weight and keep it off, surgical options can be pursued. Studies by the American Society for Bariatric Surgery (ASBS) demonstrate that weight loss surgery, as compared to non-surgical treatments, produces longer lasting weight loss results for patients who have not succeeded at other weight loss treatments. Patients who have had weight loss surgery report improvements in their quality of life, social interactions, psychological well-being, employment opportunities and economic condition.
Weight loss surgery is major surgery
Its growing use to treat morbid obesity is the result of three factors:
- Current knowledge of the significant health risks of morbid obesity.
- The relatively low risk and complications of the procedures versus not having the surgery.
- The ineffectiveness of current non-surgical approaches to produce sustained weight loss.
There are minimum qualifications for consideration as a candidate for weight loss surgery
Often the minimum qualifications for consideration are:
- 100 pounds above ideal body weight, or
- A Body Mass Index of 40 or greater, or
- A BMI of 35+ if the patient’s physician determines that obesity-related health conditions have resulted in a medical need for weight reduction and – in the doctor’s opinion – surgery appears to be the only way to accomplish the targeted weight loss.
Additionally, in many cases:
- Patients are required to show proof that their attempts at dietary weight loss have been ineffective before surgery will be approved.
- Most surgeons also require patients to demonstrate serious motivation and a clear understanding of the extensive dietary, exercise and medical guidelines that must be followed for the remainder of their lives after having weight loss surgery.
Learn more about:
How Surgery Reduces Weight
Effectiveness of Weight Loss Surgery
Additional Benefits of Weight Loss Surgery
Life After Weight Loss Surgery
Risks of Weight Loss Surgery
Choosing Weight Loss Surgery
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