The number of weight loss surgeries is increasing worldwide. Even though weight loss surgery is now widespread and well-recognised, there are still some myths that persist. Here, a few of them will be revealed:
Losing weight after surgery is an easy way out
Those who undergo this surgery still need to diet, follow extensive nutritional advice and exercise. The surgery cannot and will not work on its own. Opting for weight loss surgery means committing to a long-term change in lifestyle habits and to eating healthily and being active.
I will lose weight just by having the surgery
The surgery is only a temporary aid, even if patients lose about 70% of their excess weight after surgery. To be successful in the long term, there must be a comprehensive change in lifestyle habits. Eating well and doing sports before and after surgery are essential to avoid regaining weight. Those who do not stick to it can and will gain weight again. Even though the surgery changes the metabolism, it is possible to adapt to this and gain weight despite the anatomical changes.
This is a cosmetic treatment
With weight loss surgery, high blood pressure, diabetes, sleep apnoea, infertility in women and other conditions can be treated and prevented. That is why experts also talk about metabolic surgery. This has nothing to do with cosmetic surgery.
You have to weigh at least 150 kg to be allowed to undergo the surgery at all.
Weight is not the only criteria for patients to be selected for surgery. If there are health issues that could be improved by surgery, the surgery may also be an option for people who are moderately overweight. For example, surgery may also be advisable at a BMI between 30 and 35 kg/m2 if the patient has diabetes mellitus or high blood pressure.
Recovery after surgery takes months
Typically, most patients recover within one to two weeks. Depending on the job, some people go back to work as early as the third week.
If you are too ill, you cannot undergo surgery.
In fact, some patients undergo surgery because they are so ill. In addition to diabetes and high blood pressure, severe heart failure or chronic lung disease can also improve if weight is reduced after surgery. If necessary, a preparation must be carried out before the surgery, for example with the help of a gastric balloon, to improve the conditions for anaesthesia.
You have to stay in hospital for a long time
Typically, patients can leave hospital after 2 to 3 days following a laparoscopic surgery.
I am too old for the surgery
Age is not important. If the doctors believe that someone can benefit from bariatric surgery in terms of their health, and there are no other reasons not to have the surgery, then there is no reason not to have a gastric sleeve or gastric bypass surgery here either.
You’ll never be able to eat properly again
It is true that immediately after weight loss surgery, the amount of food you can eat is very small. And because the portions are so small, the composition of the food must be carefully monitored to avoid problems. However, a learning process then takes place and over time the portion sizes become larger and eating becomes a completely normal activity again. You can then take part in the birthday brunch again or have a barbecue in the garden. However, enjoyment no longer comes from the amount of food, but from the taste.
My health insurance will never pay for this surgery
If the conditions for surgery are met, your health insurance will also pay. There are clear guidelines that define the requirements.
