7 Important Things to Consider Before Getting Weight Loss Surgery

1. Cost

One of the many things to consider before getting weight loss surgery is the cost of this type of procedure. The overall cost of weight loss surgery does vary widely depending on the provider and location, but typically averages around ,000. This estimate does not include the cost of follow-up appointments, specialized nutritional supplements, or lost wages during recovery. Some insurance companies will cover part or all of the cost of weight loss surgery if specific health criteria are met. If your insurance provider won't pay for this type of procedure, many medical centers offer payment plans or financing options that you may be able to take advantage of. Before committing, exploring structured weight loss programs can give you helpful insights into alternative management steps.

2. Weight Loss Programs

Have you considered joining a formal weight loss program? Many doctors feel that their patients should try to lose weight by changing their diet and lifestyle before they consider having weight loss surgery. Some people have had a lot of success with structured approaches like commercial diet programs or consultation with registered dietitians. If standard commercial programs don’t work for you, consider speaking with a clinical nutritionist. They may be able to customize a sustainable eating plan tailored to your specific metabolic needs. You can learn more about evidence-based nutrition strategies from the WebMD Weight Loss Surgery Guide.

3. Are You a Candidate?

Regardless of what some people believe, not everyone qualifies for weight loss surgery. In order to qualify for weight loss surgery, you normally have to have a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or above. If you have health problems like heart disease, high blood pressure, or diabetes, you may qualify for weight loss surgery if your BMI is over 35. Most of the people who have weight loss surgery are at least 80 pounds overweight and have attempted non-surgical weight loss previously.

Medical guidelines from authorities like the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases emphasize evaluating all personal health metrics carefully before proceeding.

4. Complications

Just like with many other surgical procedures, complications can occur with weight loss surgery. After having weight loss surgery, it is possible to develop surgical complications like blood clots, ulcers, bowel obstructions, or gallstones. When you have weight loss surgery, it is also possible for you to develop an infection or nutritional deficiencies over time. Understanding these potential risks and reviewing your qualifying health criteria is essential prior to scheduling your surgery.

5. Recovery

The recovery time for weight loss surgery does vary by person and depends heavily on the specific type of surgery that you have done. Some people are able to recover and return to light work in about a week or two. Others find that it takes them several months to return to their normal daily activities and routine. After weight loss surgery, some people experience a great deal of pain and temporary physical discomfort. Also, as part of the recovery process, you will need to commit to several follow-up appointments with your surgeon and medical team to monitor your healing process. For additional details on post-surgical care, consult the Mayo Clinic Bariatric Guidelines.

Key aspects of the recovery journey include:

6. Not a Quick Fix

Before you have weight loss surgery, it's important to realize that a procedure like this is not a quick fix or an effortless solution. You must be willing to make permanent, long-term lifestyle changes in your diet and daily habits. Also, if you tend to overeat when you feel stressed, sad, or angry, weight loss surgery will not resolve emotional eating habits on its own. Pairing your surgery with dedicated support group communities can help you build healthier psychological and emotional coping mechanisms.

7. Going to a Support Group

Whether you're still considering your options or if you've already had weight loss surgery, going to a weight loss support group may be a very helpful option. Participating in a support group allows you to ask practical questions that you have about daily life after surgery. You will also benefit from the encouragement of others who are in a similar situation and understand the journey. Furthermore, it gives you a safe space to share your own experiences and milestones with peers.

As you can see, there are many things that you should consider before you have weight loss surgery. Making a well-informed decision requires careful thought regarding financial costs, medical eligibility, recovery expectations, and ongoing lifestyle commitment. Have you or someone you know had weight loss surgery? What was the experience like?