The Benefits of Obesity Surgery on Our Lives

Hello, as a General Surgery specialist, I would like to share information about the opportunities provided by obesity surgery and its positive impacts on our lives. Obesity is one of the most prevalent and serious health issues of modern times. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines obesity as an abnormal or excessive accumulation of fat in the body that poses a health risk. If left untreated, obesity can lead to serious health problems such as hypertension, diabetes, heart diseases, sleep apnea, and certain types of cancer. At this point, obesity surgery offers an effective solution to improve health and quality of life.

What is Obesity Surgery?

Obesity surgery encompasses surgical interventions aimed at assisting with weight loss. Common procedures include sleeve gastrectomy, gastric bypass, gastric balloon placement, and biliopancreatic diversion. These surgeries are typically performed on individuals with a body mass index (BMI) over 40 or those with a BMI over 35 who also suffer from obesity-related severe health issues. However, the impact of obesity surgery goes beyond weight loss; these procedures lead to significant improvements in quality of life.

Physical Benefits of Obesity Surgery

1. Weight Loss and a Healthy Body Composition: After obesity surgery, patients typically lose 50-80% of their excess weight. This weight loss improves mobility, reduces joint pain, and facilitates participation in physical activities.
2. Diabetes Control: For patients with type 2 diabetes, obesity surgery is an effective method for managing the condition. Post-surgery, many patients require reduced medication or no longer need diabetes medications at all.
3. Improvement in Hypertension: Weight loss regulates blood pressure and helps control hypertension, reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke.
4. Treatment of Sleep Apnea: Obesity is a major cause of sleep apnea. Post-surgery weight loss reduces pressure on the airways, leading to more comfortable sleep and prevention of apnea attacks.
5. Reduction in Liver Fat: Weight loss following surgery alleviates obesity-related fatty liver and mitigates associated liver damage.

Psychological and Social Benefits

1. Increased Self-Confidence: Obesity can lead to a loss of self-esteem. Post-surgery weight loss and physical improvements boost individuals’ confidence in themselves.
2. Reduction in Symptoms of Depression and Anxiety: Excess weight often triggers depression and anxiety in many individuals. The results achieved after surgery enhance psychological well-being.
3. Improved Social Acceptance and Relationships: Post-surgery, individuals become more active and confident in social settings, positively affecting their professional and family relationships.

Long-Term Health Benefits

1. Prolonged Life Expectancy: Obesity surgery prevents serious health problems, thereby extending life expectancy. For example, the prevention of cardiovascular diseases and the reduced risk of cancer are among these benefits.
2. Reduction in Medication Use: Weight loss helps manage chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol, reducing the need for medications.
3. Increased Physical Activity Capacity: A fitter body enhances individuals’ ability to exercise and maintain an active lifestyle.

The Importance of Nutritional and Lifestyle Changes

While surgery may seem like a miraculous solution, sustaining success requires adopting healthy eating habits and engaging in regular physical activity. Dietitian support and psychological counseling are vital during the post-surgery period to help individuals embrace a healthy lifestyle.

Conclusion

Obesity surgery is not just about losing excess weight but also about living a healthier and higher-quality life. However, it’s essential to remember that surgery is only the beginning. Following surgery, adhering to medical advice, attending regular check-ups, and developing healthy lifestyle habits are key to success.

As a General Surgery specialist, I would like to emphasize the life-changing contributions of utilizing the opportunities provided by surgery in the fight against obesity. If you have any questions on this topic, consult a specialist to get detailed information. Wishing you healthy days!

Op. Dr. Kadir Dicle
General Surgery Specialist