Misconceptions About Weight Loss Surgery

Bariatric surgery, or weight loss surgery, is a surgical method to help you reduce the amount of food consumed, thereby reducing caloric intake. One of the most common misconceptions about weight loss surgery is that it is a replacement for exercise and dieting. Instead, bariatric surgery should be seen as just one tool for weight loss. It is often regarded as a last resort for those who have already tried dieting and exercise, and are finding the results to be disappointing.

Undergoing weight loss surgery requires a commitment to significant lifestyle changes, including a diet and exercise plan. Here are a few other misconceptions that many people have about bariatric surgery and gastric bypass surgery.

Misconception: I can eat whatever I want after bariatric surgery

Actually, it is important to pay close attention to your diet following weight loss surgery. If you don't eat a healthy diet, you can gain the weight back. You must commit to following a strict dietary plan following any type of bariatric surgery. In addition, there are some foods that should be avoided by those who have undergone bariatric surgery. If you return to your pre-surgery habits, you may find that you do not lose weight, or that any immediate weight loss after surgery is regained quickly.

Misconception: I'll never be able to go out to eat again

While some patients mistakenly believe they can eat whatever they want following surgery, others are afraid that they'll never be able to enjoy eating again. If you follow all of the post-surgery guidelines, your body will eventually be able to digest a full restaurant entree.

Misconception: Bariatric surgery is cosmetic surgery

While many patients choose to undergo bariatric surgery to lose excess weight for cosmetic reasons, it is also performed for health reasons, as a morbidly obese person also has a range of other health conditions attributed to obesity. Known as co-morbidities, conditions including diabetes, asthma, and heart disease often accompany the excess weight. Bariatric surgery should be seen as a weight loss tool that can help improve your overall health.

To learn more about Roux-en-Y surgery as well as LAP-BAND® surgery and other weight loss surgery issues, be sure to contact our Pleasanton bariatric and weight loss surgery center.