A lot of us struggle with our weight. Nobody needs to be a fat girl (or boy) but the cultural pressure to be thin is so overwhelming that it’s normal for us to feel dissatisfied with our bodies. If you’re one of those people then you’ve probably considered surgery as a way to change your life. Let’s take a look at how you can use surgery to your advantage.
The Pros And Cons Of Surgery
One of the things that makes surgery so attractive is that there are so many options available to those who are looking to lose weight. There are several different types of operations that you can have to attain this goal, ranging from simple to complex. You should consult with your surgeon to determine what’s appropriate for you.
The upside of surgery is that it’s incredibly effective at helping people lose weight, and for those who are suitably motivated, it can be an effective way to change their lives for the better. The downside is that the surgery itself carries risks and side-effects which you should be aware of.
One of the dangers of surgery is that you don’t necessarily need a lot of it to make a difference. The danger of under-dosing is that you could lose too much weight and suffer from malnutrition. The other danger is that you might not be able to eat the foods you love afterwards, leading to nutritional deficiencies. The fact that surgery targets a specific area of the body means that you might not be able to enjoy the foods you eat regularly post-op.
Choosing The Right Surgical Procedure
One of the first things you should do before even thinking about getting any type of surgery is to consult with your surgeon to find out what’s appropriate for you. You should also have a look at the different types of procedures available and see which one is right for your needs.
There are several different types of surgeries that can be used to help you lose weight, but the two most popular procedures are gastric banding and gastric bypass. Let’s examine the differences between these two procedures.
Gastric Banding
Gastric banding is a procedure where a band is placed around your stomach to gently restrict your food intake. This is a safe and easy procedure to undergo and has the advantage of being reversible. If you decide that this is indeed the right avenue for you then your surgeon will be able to help you choose an appropriate band for your needs.
Gastric Bypass
Gastric bypass is a more invasive procedure where parts of your digestive system are modified to hinder your body’s ability to absorb food. This is a longer procedure to undergo and has the advantage of being irreversible. If you’re looking for a permanent solution then gastric bypass is what you need to go for.
Which One Should You Choose?
The decision is entirely up to you, but it depends on your situation. If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to shed those extra pounds then gastric banding might be the right option for you, provided you’re a suitable candidate. If you’re looking for a more permanent solution then gastric bypass might be the better choice. A dietician can help you make the right decision and put you on the right track to a healthier and fitter lifestyle.
As I’ve already stated, the decision is entirely up to you. Just consider all of the pros and the cons and make the right choice for you.
Surgery is a powerful tool in your weight loss arsenal, but you need to use it properly to get the best results. Make sure to meet with your surgeon and go over all of the options with him before making a decision. Don’t be afraid to think outside of the box if you’re not sure what would be the best fit for you. Last but not least, be sure to follow the post-operative instructions given to you by your surgeon to ensure the best possible recovery.