Weight loss surgery, also known as bariatric surgery, is designed to help individuals with severe obesity achieve lasting weight loss and improve overall health when other interventions have proven unsuccessful. In Indiana, where nearly 38% of adults are considered obese (consistently above the national average since 1990, according to America’s Health Rankings), weight loss surgery presents a significant option for those struggling with their weight. This article explores the various weight loss surgery options available in Indiana, the qualification criteria, the preparation process, and the necessary lifestyle changes for long-term success.
Understanding Weight Loss Surgery
Bariatric surgery helps you to lose weight by reducing the size of your stomach and changing how your body absorbs nutrients. Your appetite decreases and your stomach gets fuller with less food. It is not a one-size-fits-all solution and is typically recommended only after careful evaluation of your health and lifestyle. Bariatric surgery can be a tool used to help you achieve your weight loss goals. But pursuing surgical weight loss is not for everyone.
Types of Weight Loss Surgeries
There are different types of weight loss surgeries, including:
- Gastric Bypass Surgery: During the procedure, the stomach is divided into two pouches to limit food intake and redirect digestion to reduce absorption of fat and calories in food.
- Sleeve Gastrectomy (Lap Sleeve Surgery): Lap sleeve surgery involves removing a portion of the stomach to create a smaller, tubular-shaped stomach. Sleeve surgery also eliminates the section of the stomach responsible for ghrelin production. This hormone is associated with hunger and removing it diminishes food cravings, enhancing your weight loss efforts.
Both procedures result in significant weight loss and can lead to improvements in obesity-related health conditions. Bariatric surgeries are often performed laparoscopically or robotically (unless there is a medical reason not to do so). This means many small incisions are made instead of one large incision. Minimally invasive surgical options may help shorten your recovery time.
Qualification for Weight Loss Surgery
Bariatric surgery involves a comprehensive assessment to ensure that it’s medically necessary and appropriate for you. If you are obese with a body mass index (BMI) of 35 or above, weight-loss surgery may be an option. To qualify for weight loss surgery, patients typically have a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher. These help gauge your commitment to lifestyle changes post-surgery.
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Additionally, consultations with a multidisciplinary team comprised of surgeons, dietitians, psychologists, and other specialists are required.
Preparing for Weight Loss Surgery
Preparing for weight loss surgery involves comprehensive counseling to equip you mentally and physically. Psychological aspects are addressed to help you cope with the emotional challenges tied to significant weight loss. Establishing realistic expectations and building a support system are integral components. They help ensure that you are prepared for the transformative journey ahead. Weight-loss management is a step-by-step process. Care teams help you to understand surgical and non-surgical treatment options and lifestyle changes. They care about your physical and emotional health.
The Surgical Process
The day of your bariatric surgery is a carefully orchestrated process, beginning with admission and preoperative procedures. You’ll arrive at the hospital. Once ready, you will proceed to the surgical suite for your surgery. Throughout your procedure, the surgical team will monitor your vital signs to ensure your safety.
Postoperative Recovery and Care
Postoperative recovery and care following weight loss surgery are critical aspects for ensuring successful outcomes and minimizing complications. The immediate recovery period typically lasts the first few days after surgery. Your hospital stay after weight loss surgery is variable. Monitoring continues after discharge through postoperative follow-up appointments. Follow-up appointments are scheduled at specific intervals in the weeks and months following surgery.
Under the guidance of a dietitian, you will begin to follow a gradual diet progression, starting with liquids and progressing to soft and solid foods. In addition to physical recovery, postoperative care emphasizes psychological and emotional well-being. You will have a network of support before, during and after your weight-loss surgery. During your journey, you’ll have follow-up visits with your doctor and care team at a location near you. Bariatric support groups, exercise and fitness programs that fit your capabilities, and nutrition counseling are also available.
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Lifestyle Changes After Surgery
Weight loss surgery requires significant lifestyle changes to maintain long-term success in managing weight. Adopting healthy habits is crucial post-surgery, involving a shift towards nutrient-dense, portion-controlled meals. Hydration is also crucial, with alcohol and sugary beverages ideally restricted.
Regular physical activity becomes a cornerstone of your lifestyle, aiding in weight management and overall well-being. Post-surgery, you are encouraged to gradually increase your activity levels. Your commitment to lifestyle changes is integral to fostering a sustainable, healthy routine. Weight loss surgery acts as a catalyst for transformative habits.
Risks and Complications
As with all surgical treatments, weight loss surgery carries potential risks and complications. Common concerns include infection, bleeding, blood clots, and adverse reactions to anesthesia. Thorough consultation with your doctor will help you make an informed choice that aligns with your health goals.
Cost and Insurance Coverage
How to pay for weight loss surgery is one of the biggest concerns patients have. Fortunately, employers and insurance providers have increasingly incorporated weight loss surgery into their coverage plans. If you require weight loss surgery, consult with your office and your insurance provider. It’s crucial to recognize the individuality of insurance policies. Consult with your insurer in advance, especially if you’re considering weight loss surgery.
Bariatric Care Teams in Indiana
Bariatric care teams at Ascension St. Vincent in Carmel, Indiana provide specialty care for surgical and medically supervised weight loss. At Ascension St. Vincent in Carmel, they also offer bariatric support groups, exercise and fitness programs that fit your capabilities, and nutrition counseling. The bariatric surgeons at Evansville Surgical Associates provide the highest level of surgical care in Evansville, IN, and the tri-state area. Their surgeons are board-certified with specialized training in bariatric surgery, acting as leaders in advanced surgical procedures.
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Non-Surgical Weight Loss Options
Bariatric surgery is not your only option. Non-surgical medical weight loss programs are offered with surgical programs in Lafayette and Muncie. There are also medically supervised weight-loss program for those who may not need or desire surgery. This program is supervised by a doctor and includes exercise testing and instruction, nutritional planning, and counseling.