Weight Loss Surgery Myths And Questions Answered
Reviewed By Patient Coordinator Mim Dickens
Last updated 01/01/2000
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Reviewed By Patient Coordinator Mim Dickens Last updated 01/01/01 |
If you're on a journey to lose weight and researching weight loss surgery, you’ve probably come across various myths surrounding weight loss procedures.
So we thought we'd take some time out to bust those myths wide open and bring some clarity on what’s true and not true about weight loss surgery. As well as answer some commonly asked questions you might have.
Let's dive in...
Weight Loss Surgery Myths debunked
Weight loss surgery is the "easy way out."
There’s nothing easy about making the decision to undergo weight loss surgery. It’s a courageous step that requires careful consideration and commitment.
Bariatric surgery is a tool that can help you jumpstart your weight loss journey, but it’s not a magical fix. It requires lifestyle changes and dedication to maintain a healthy weight in the long run.
You won't enjoy food ever again.
Weight loss surgery won’t rob you of your love for food.
Of course, you’ll need to make some adjustments, but you’ll still get to savour a wide variety of scrumptious dishes.
The difference is that you’ll learn to cherish quality over quantity and explore healthier, delicious alternatives.
You'll lose all the weight in a snap.
While weight loss surgery can trigger significant initial weight loss, it’s not an overnight miracle.
Patience is needed and sustainable weight loss takes time.
Please remember, it’s essential to set realistic goals. Celebrate every milestone, whether big or small, and keep your eye on the prize.
You'll be stuck with excess skin forever.
As you shed those extra pounds, your skin may adapt gradually unless you are losing a significant amount of weight.
Staying active and hydrated can also help the process.
Some patients may choose to explore post bariatric cosmetic surgery once their weight loss has stabilised to tackle excess skin and enhance their natural beauty.
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More weight loss surgery myths debunked
Weight loss surgery is only for extremely obese patients.
Weight loss surgery isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. It’s true that it’s recommended for individuals with a considerably high body mass index (BMI).
However, other factors come into play too.
You may find yourself in a position where you have a higher BMI and have exhausted every other option.
You'll never feel hungry again.
It is still likely that bariatric patients will still experience hunger pangs post-surgery.
The difference lies in the way your body processes hunger signals.
Weight loss surgery helps reduce appetite, but it’s crucial to maintain a balanced eating schedule to avoid excessive snacking.
You'll never gain weight back.
Weight management is an ongoing journey. Bariatric surgery is a powerful tool, but it’s not foolproof.
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, regular exercise, and proper nutrition are key to long-term success.
At Weight Loss Riga, we’re all about helping you make informed choices and supporting you on your path to a healthier, happier you.
So if there's any myths or questions you've come across during your research, head over to our patient Facebook group to have them answered by thousands of patients living a bariatric lifestyle.
More weight loss surgery myths debunked
Weight loss surgery is only for extremely obese patients.
Weight loss surgery isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. It’s true that it’s recommended for individuals with a considerably high body mass index (BMI).
However, other factors come into play too.
You may find yourself in a position where you have a higher BMI and have exhausted every other option.
You'll never feel hungry again.
It is still likely that bariatric patients will still experience hunger pangs post-surgery.
The difference lies in the way your body processes hunger signals.
Weight loss surgery helps reduce appetite, but it’s crucial to maintain a balanced eating schedule to avoid excessive snacking.
You'll never gain weight back.
Weight management is an ongoing journey. Bariatric surgery is a powerful tool, but it’s not foolproof.
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, regular exercise, and proper nutrition are key to long-term success.
At Weight Loss Riga, we’re all about helping you make informed choices and supporting you on your path to a healthier, happier you.
So if there's any myths or questions you've come across during your research, head over to our patient Facebook group to have them answered by thousands of patients living a bariatric lifestyle.
Considering weight loss surgery this year? Find out if you’re eligible and start your journey to a healthier you. |
Answers to commonly asked questions around weight loss surgery
How do I qualify for weight loss surgery?
You must have a BMI of at least 30 - some procedures such as gastric bypass surgery require a BMI of at least 35. Additionally, you’ll need to be fit for surgery and general anaesthetic.
What can I eat after my surgery?
You won’t be able to eat after your procedure until you’ve passed the normal swallowing test. After which, you’ll be allowed to eat some soft foods before working with our team and nutritionists to create and maintain a healthy, balanced diet.
What is the average weight loss after surgery?
On average, people lose 70% of their excess weight from weight loss surgery in the first 1-2 years.
Can I lose more weight with a sleeve or bypass?
After gastric sleeve surgery, your stomach will be reduced from 1500ml to 200ml. A gastric bypass procedure reduces the size of the stomach to 30ml.
No matter which weight loss treatment you choose, the weight loss is ultimately up to how you change your lifestyle after surgery.
What happens if I eat food too soon?
Eating solid foods too soon after your surgery can create pressure on your stomach pouch and stretch it, this may lead to vomiting and discomfort.
To avoid this, you should follow the advice that will be given to you by your dietitian.
Can I drink alcohol?
You can drink alcohol after your procedure but the rate at which it is absorbed may have changed.
Remember, you will need to adopt a healthy lifestyle after your procedure to successfully lose weight, so bear this in mind when drinking alcohol. We do not advise drinking excess alcohol.
Can I regain weight?
Yes, but if you follow the advice from your dietitian and continue to exercise and maintain a healthy lifestyle, then this should not happen.
Answers to commonly asked questions around weight loss surgery
How do I qualify for weight loss surgery?
You must have a BMI of at least 30 - some procedures such as gastric bypass surgery require a BMI of at least 35. Additionally, you’ll need to be fit for surgery and general anaesthetic.
What can I eat after my surgery?
You won’t be able to eat after your procedure until you’ve passed the normal swallowing test. After which, you’ll be allowed to eat some soft foods before working with our team and nutritionists to create and maintain a healthy, balanced diet.
What is the average weight loss after surgery?
On average, people lose 70% of their excess weight from weight loss surgery in the first 1-2 years.
Can I lose more weight with a sleeve or bypass?
After gastric sleeve surgery, your stomach will be reduced from 1500ml to 200ml. A gastric bypass procedure reduces the size of the stomach to 30ml.
No matter which weight loss treatment you choose, the weight loss is ultimately up to how you change your lifestyle after surgery.
What happens if I eat food too soon?
Eating solid foods too soon after your surgery can create pressure on your stomach pouch and stretch it, this may lead to vomiting and discomfort.
To avoid this, you should follow the advice that will be given to you by your dietitian.
Can I drink alcohol?
You can drink alcohol after your procedure but the rate at which it is absorbed may have changed.
Remember, you will need to adopt a healthy lifestyle after your procedure to successfully lose weight, so bear this in mind when drinking alcohol. We do not advise drinking excess alcohol.
Can I regain weight?
Yes, but if you follow the advice from your dietitian and continue to exercise and maintain a healthy lifestyle, then this should not happen.
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