This has been looked at and talked about for so long, along with being the subject of many talk shows and books, that it is difficult not to have an opinion. One person may say that if it is reconstructive surgery that is being performed, then it is ok. While a counterpart may believe that having that type of surgery for any reason, even if you are unhappy with your looks, is not ok. Is a surgery, especially an elective surgery, performed after a necessary operation considered frivolous? In other words, if you underwent surgery for something like a Mastectomy, would it be wrong to undergo another surgery to correct the appearance of your breasts? And what about surgeries to rid the body of excess fat, such as a liposuction procedure? A weight loss surgery such as an this may be considered totally cosmetic, but for those who are morbidly obese, this type of operation may be a life saver.

Is it strictly cosmetic surgery if you have breast surgery to improve your appearance after a Mastectomy? Should you just be happy that you are still around and just say the heck with how you look? Or should you have the choice, without everyone commenting on it, as to whether or not this procedure is necessary, or important to you? Perhaps their opinions would change if they had to go through that type of operation.

Surgeries of this type are, of course, a personal choice. Perhaps it does seem strange to some that you would choose to have surgery for something that was not absolutely necessary. Maybe they think that having elective surgery is completely wrong, but wrong for whom? Is it wrong to want to look normal or even better than average? Should you have to walk around for the rest of your life and have a constant reminder of what you went through every time you look in the mirror?

Have you considered cosmetic surgery? Did your friends and family try to talk you out of it? Or have you had a procedure done? If so, then what were people’s original reactions when they learned about your experience? Did they attempt to make you feel ashamed? Were you able to tell these people to get on with their own lives and mind their own business?

By Weight Loss Surgery Editor

Share This

You may be surprised to learn that many men are now opting for this type of elective surgery. One of the more popular procedures for men is neck liposuction, which removes areas of fat around the neck and sculpts the area for an improved look. More often than not, this is combined with a face lift or other type of facial surgery, such as chin liposuction. When asked why they want the surgery in the first place, many state it is for work related reasons and view it as an investment in themselves.

Ultrasonic liposuction is the number one cosmetic/plastic surgical procedure being performed. The method behind the ultrasonic procedure is that the fat is “shaken or loosened” and this enables it to be sucked out of the body more efficiently.

Is our society fixated on youth and beauty? Does our culture almost demand that we do everything possible to improve upon our appearance? While studies indicate that everyone has their own ideas and self-image, if you are happy with yourself, then you will probably project that feeling through every part of your life. While, those who are not satisfied with how they look tend to be more introverted and self-conscious. So, is plastic surgery right for you? Or do you feel there may be other alternatives?

With any specialized or general surgery you will need time to recover after surgery, and the time varies from person to person as well as according to the procedure. You will also need to allow time for both physical and emotional issues. Many physicians say that the emotional recovery is usually something the patient has not counted on and as such, they try to make sure to discuss this issue before all surgeries.

Aristotle said that “Beauty is a greater recommendation than any letter of introduction,” but is it? Naturally, there are many different reasons why someone may choose to have plastic surgery. Unfortunately, some of their expectations may be a little unrealistic. There are limits to what can be done by a plastic surgeon during a surgical procedure. It is important to remember there are many variables that must be considered, such as skin texture, age and even overall health. If someone is convinced that a face-lift will bestow ravishing good looks on them, then they may need to be reminded that their surgeon is working with skin, not clay. Though not the answer to life’s problems, it can improve a persons appearance and self-confidence, but only if their state of mind is positive before the operation.

By Weight Loss Surgery Editor

Share This

Weight Loss Surgery - An Overview

Weight loss surgery is specifically meant for people who are 100 pounds or significantly over their ideal body weight. The surgery is also essential for individuals who have a Body Mass Index or BMI over 40.

Weight loss surgery is major surgery. Its growing use to treat morbid obesity is the result of three factors:

1) Our current knowledge of the significant health risks of morbid obesity

2) The relatively low risk and complications of the procedures versus not having surgery

3) The ineffectiveness of current non-surgical approaches to produce sustained weight loss.

Weight loss surgery is performed in many major hospitals, including various other countries, such as India. This operation successfully removes the excess weight from the body. Weight loss surgery is as much a psychological tool as a physical tool.

Weight Loss Surgery - Who Qualifies

As mentioned earlier, weight loss surgery is appropriate for patients who are 100 pounds or more overweight and have been unsuccessful with other attempts at weight loss. Patients choosing weight loss surgery meet with a surgeon for a consultation as well as a registered dietitian and psychologist. Weight loss surgery is growing in popularity as a fast weight loss solution for morbidly obese patients. Surgical procedures can help patients achieve rapid weight loss in two ways: they can either restrict the amount of food allowed into the stomach, or restrict the amount of nutrients that can be absorbed from the food.

Individuals with a BMI between 35 and 40 (severe obesity) and are experiencing severe negative health effects as a result of being overweight may also qualify for the surgery, if it is determined these associated health concerns may result in significant physical disability or even death.

Bariatric Weight Loss Surgery

Weight loss surgery is a proven, long-term, effective treatment for the severely obese. Weight loss surgery is often known as bariatric surgery. Bariatric surgery is nowadays offered to people who are both moderately or heavily obese.

Bariatric (weight loss) surgery can be the key to helping you get rid of many obesity-related health problems. Bariatric surgeons operate on your body, not on your mind. So if you have failed to lose weight with conventional dietary methods, don’t expect to get an easy ride, just by having a gastric bypass operation. Bariatric surgery offers people who have lived with obesity for years a healthier alternative. Many patients who elect to undergo bariatric surgery have tried everything to lose weight, from medically supervised programs to over-the-counter plans to dangerous herbal supplements.

Bariatric surgeries, which are usually reserved for people more than 100 pounds overweight, have become more widely accepted over the past decade as a safe and effective method for long-term weight loss. The procedures also can help resolve related medical problems such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes.

Weight Loss Surgery - Gastric Bypass Surgery

Gastric bypass surgery is potentially reversible. Reversal requires another operation of the same, or greater, magnitude with the same, or greater, risks. Gastric bypass patients average a two- to three-day hospital stay, and lap band patients stay overnight and go home the morning after surgery. Gastric bypass surgery is very effective for patients who are morbidly obese having so much body fat that their health is in danger. You can lose up to 80 percent of excess body weight within five years.

Gastric bypass and all other types of bariatric surgery will require you to make lifelong changes to your diet. The surgery changes the way your body absorbs vitamins and minerals, so you will need to take daily vitamin supplements. Gastric cancer generally comes in two forms. There are many risk factors for stomach cancer, including an infection with bacteria called Helicobacter pylori, which is also known as H. Gastric bypass surgery is an appropriate alternative for patients who have tried all conservative measures to control their weight and have failed. We know that when people are more than 100 pounds over their ideal body weight, they suffer psychologically, socially, and physically.

Gastric bypass surgery is a more complex form of weight loss surgery (bariatric surgery). Two gastric bypass procedures are currently available: Roux-en-Y-gastric bypass and biliopancreatic diversion bypass.

Share This

Many times you may hear, “It’s just liposuction surgery, so what’s the big deal?” The big deal is that this procedure is no different from any other surgery for any reason. There are always risks involved with invasive surgery and this one is no different. Some of the primary risks associated with it may include blood clots, infection, nerve damage and adverse reactions to the anesthesia. You must be sure that you fully understand pre-op liposuction, the procedure itself as well as post-op instructions. Failure to do so can result in complications or even death, so stay informed.

It would be a good idea to do a little research about liposuction before setting up an appointment, so that you will have a general idea about the procedure. Ask your doctor as many questions as you can think of about the surgery. It is important to understand that perfect results after liposuction are rare. Therefore, you need to have a realistic expectation of the outcome, as this expectation is part of what makes someone a good candidate for this procedure. If you have stretch marks or cellulite, then it is entirely possible that you will get poor results.

Of course, if you are not very healthy when considering this surgery, then you may not be an ideal candidate, as there may be more risks involved with someone in poor health. Certain prescriptions that you may be on can make a liposuction procedure unsafe. So be sure you tell your doctor exactly what you are taking or have taken and then you will be able to discuss alternatives, if any are available.

After surgery, an individual’s recovery time is based somewhat on the type of procedure performed. However, when the conversation is about liposuction in general, there are some after-affects that are pretty standard no matter which procedure is performed. For instance, protracted swelling, bruising and tenderness are common to all. Be sure to discuss these possibilities with your doctor prior to your surgery so that you will be prepared for liposuction recovery.

By Weight Loss Surgery Editor

Share This

This popular procedure does not necessarily have to be performed at a hospital or surgery center, as it can also be done at the doctor’s office. Naturally there are pros and cons related to both locations. Normally, only a small volume procedure will be performed as an out patient basis due to the cost. If a larger volume of fat needs to be removed or if this is being done in conjunction with other procedures, then your doctor will speak with you about the options available to you and together you will make an informed decision.

Plastic surgeons or even dermatologists perform many of these liposuction procedures. Keep in mind that any licensed physician may perform the surgery, as no standardized training is required. As a result of this there will be differences in experience and training. You may want to consider asking the physician you have chosen how many times he or she has performed this type of surgery and whether or not they have had any specialized training in this field. Just because it is elective surgery does not mean that it is any less serious than any other type of invasive surgery.

The liposuction tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is likely the most often performed procedure. Most people who are considering having this done are usually somewhat overweight or have excess skin redundancy that is a result of a large weight loss or pregnancy. In the case of pregnancy, experts advise waiting until you will no longer be having any more children, as the muscles that are tightened during liposuction can separate again during another pregnancy. It is further noted that the tightened muscles can restrict the growth of the fetus.

As with many other procedures, liposuction is not completely pain or discomfort free. Experiencing pain after surgery is common. There is also a possibility of drainage from the incisions after liposuction, but these are normal, and if necessary your doctor may insert a drainage tube to avoid the build-up of fluid. By following your doctor’s advice you will have a better chance of getting through it with as little discomfort as possible. Remember to ask your doctor any questions you may have prior to the procedure so that everything is understood. And try not to be too impatient while waiting to see the results, as liposuction recovery means different things to different people.

By Weight Loss Surgery Editor

Share This

Obesity is a serious disease with symptoms that build slowly over an extended period of time. There are some surgeries that are specifically recommended for patients with morbid obesity. The National Institute of Health defines morbid obesity as being 100 pounds or more overweight, or having a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 or greater, or having a BMI of 35 or greater with one or more co-morbid (meaning the presence of one or more disorders in addition to the primary disorder) condition. After your doctor gets a complete medical history from you and perhaps runs some tests, he or she will determine if you meet the criteria and conditions and will talk with you to see if having the surgery for weight loss is right for you.

Did you know that right now there are over 24 million adults in the US who are living with morbid obesity and that by the year 2010 it is predicted that there will be over 31 million adult sufferers. Bariatric medicine has shown how obvious it is that morbid obesity interferes with all basic functions such as breathing and walking, with long term implications that may include a shorter life expectancy, heart disease and diabetes. The National Industry of Health tells us that people in this range will all qualify for some form of surgery in weight control, such as a liposuction procedure.

A BMI of 40 or greater is said to be a sign of morbid obesity OR a BMI of 35 or greater along with a co-morbid condition. There are many conditions that could fit this description. Some of the more common ones include: heart disease requiring heart surgery, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, type 2 diabetes, acid reflux or GERD, Cancer, Depression along with several others. Mortality rates from many of these conditions are higher among people with morbid obesity.

For everyone who has asked if there really is a lasting benefit of weight loss surgery, the answer is yes. A 5 year study was done on 3 different types of weight loss strategies. These included diet and exercise, prescription weight loss medication and bariatric surgery. This surgery had the best results with 50 to 70% of the patients being able to lose at least 50% of the excess weight and keep it off. Next was diet and exercise, where only 2 to 5% of the people maintained a weight loss of at least 10% and the people that took prescribed weight loss medication did not maintain any weight loss.

By Weight Loss Surgery Editor

Share This

However, as easy as some of the procedures sound, surgery for weight loss is not for someone who is looking for a quick fix or for those who just don’t want to diet. Most people who undergo this type of elective surgery for weight loss must still follow strict dietary guidelines or risk being disappointed in their weight loss. Exercise is still a key part of losing weight, even after surgery. Patients who exercise at least 30 minutes a day will lose weight 30% faster.

Weight loss surgery is not for everyone and there are guidelines which your doctor will insist that you follow to determine if Lap Band surgery is right for you. One key component in making this determination is your Body Mass Index (BMI), which is determined by a calculation based on height and weight.

As it is an invasive surgery, all factors need to be taken into consideration and figuring your BMI is one consideration. Your BMI is determined by calculating your weight in pounds divided by your height in inches squared and is categorized as follows: Healthy Weight has a BMI between 19 and 25, Overweight would be between 25 and 30, over 30 is considered obese and if your BMI is 40 or more it is considered morbidly obese.

However, your BMI is not the only factor that your doctor considers. For example, if your BMI is over 40, or more than 35 with obesity related health conditions, such as diabetes, hypertension, etc., then you may qualify for the procedure. A few other considerations for this type of operation would be if you were twice your ideal weight or at least 100 pounds overweight. If you have been overweight for 5 or more years and have not been able to lose weight through diet and exercise, then you may be a good candidate.

If you are considering a weight loss surgery such as the Lap Band surgery, then you need to realize that having unrealistic expectations makes you less of an ideal candidate for the procedure. This may also be true for people who have a severe psychiatric illness, women who are planning to become pregnant with a year and cancer patients who are not in remission. As well, believing that you will not have to worry about your diet after surgery is unrealistic and may indicate that this surgery is not suitable for you.

By Weight Loss Surgery Editor

Share This

Another term for this surgery is abdominoplasty, where loose skin, and at times, skin that has stretch marks is removed. The abdominal muscles are usually tightened up with sutures as well. This results in a dramatic reduction of a protruding abdomen.

Of course, as with any surgery there is some swelling and pain. Depending on the extent of the surgery you may be discharged within a few hours, or remain in the hospital for several days. After surgery you will be encouraged to take a slow walk, however, it is likely that you will not be able to stand straight. Since the skin on the abdomen will be quite tight you will be instructed to remain bent over at around 45 degrees.

There will be drains placed in your body during the surgery to remove extra fluid. While the drains are in place, you will be on bed rest with a very small amount of walking. Approximately 4 days after the surgery you may begin to straighten up but your doctor will advise you to not overdo the movement. Remember, even though it is an elective surgery, it is still a major invasive surgery and recovery times will reflect this fact.

Your doctor may suggest an alternative to the full procedure if he feels that it would be more beneficial to you. This alternative, called a mini tummy tuck, is very similar to the original procedure but this one targets the lower abdomen only. There are, of course, other benefits to having this particular surgery, which is also known as a partial abdominoplasty. One benefit is the fact that it will take less time for the operation.

Some are under the impression that this method is the same as a liposuction procedure, but that is not the case. The major difference is that an abdominoplasty is performed to remove excess skin that has been stretched out, possibly after a substantial weight loss. Liposuction surgery is used to actually remove the fat.

Perhaps you just went through a major weight loss surgery and yet, it is not quite what you expected. You really didn’t think your skin was going to look as bad as it does, all stretched out and hanging around your mid section. Your doctor may recommend another procedure such as the tummy tuck. While it is an elective surgery it may be necessary in order to remove the excess skin and tighten up the muscles.

By Weight Loss Surgery Editor

Share This

Liposuction is often referred to as body sculpture and is heralded as a dream come true. If you have localized areas of accumulated fat that even dieting and exercising will not remove, then it is likely an inherited trait, which until recently you were stuck with no matter what. Liposuction surgery has made tremendous strides since its inception, such as being able to perform the procedure in an outpatient surgery center rather than a hospital. A great plus for the Tumescent procedure is that most patients will be able to walk out of the center or doctors office within 30 minutes after the procedure and should be able to go back to work within a day or two.

It is also interesting to note that for both women and men this is a very popular choice. In women, the most commonly treated areas for liposuction procedures are the abdomen, thighs, knees, hips, calves and ankles. Chin liposuction has also become popular. For men, the most commonly treated areas are “love handles,” the abdomen, breast and the chin, as well as neck liposuction.

The body fat of an adult usually increases gradually over the years and normally after the age of 30 much of the fat is the result of a genetically predetermined pattern. Unfortunately, this fat distribution tends to be resistant to exercising and dieting. For many individuals who have inherited this trait a liposuction procedure is the only realistic means of changing their body.

Fat cells that are removed during liposuction do not grow back. As long as you do not gain an excessive amount of weight, the results are permanent. If there is one complaint that most patients have in common, then it is the fact that due to post surgical swelling the ultimate results normally require 12 to 16 weeks to become completely apparent.

Some patients who have had liposuction or any other similar surgeries performed previously using general anesthesia, and then have it done again using the Tumescent liposuction technique agree that this procedure was less painful and without the possible side effects of general anesthesia.

As with any surgical procedure, liposuction surgery is associated with some common side-effects, such as bruising, temporary numbness and swelling. And while some irregularities of the skin are possible after liposuction, this side-effect is minimized, along with other side-effects like infections, bleeding and nerve injury by using the Tumescent technique. Perhaps one of the most appealing aspects of this procedure is the minimal downtime involved, which those individuals with busy lifestyles really appreciate.

After surgery for liposuction using general anesthesia, a patient may experience nausea and pain. Using local anesthesia during Tumescent liposuction produces virtually no blood loss and little to no nausea. Because it does take some extra time to locally inject the anesthesia, a patient may remain on the surgical table longer than someone who had general anesthesia administered. Fortunately, the recovery time after a Tumescent surgery is shorter that one using general anesthesia so the time spent is still pretty much the same.

By Weight Loss Surgery Editor

Share This

What types of people are good candidates for this procedure? Some surgeons accept patients in their 60’s and some will even operate on teens, but since this is considered to be a last-step treatment for obesity, it is used only when all other conventional methods such as dieting, or even an abdominoplasty treatment have failed. Candidates must have severe obesity-related health problems.

There are 3 different stages or classifications of obesity that use the Body Mass Index (BMI). Morbid obesity (BMI 40+), super-obesity (BMI 50+) and end-stage obesity (BMI 60+). Severe obesity is a chronic, frequently progressive, life threatening disease. Does this mean that undergoing surgery is more of a risk than the actual disease itself?

You may find yourself asking if the risks of Bariatric surgery outweigh the benefits. Most doctors say the benefits do outweigh the risks. If someone is 100 percent over their ideal weight, then they have a much higher mortality rate than someone who is within their normal weight. Surgery for any reason does have its risks, however even without the risk involved, some patients are unable to follow the after surgery, post-operative instructions regarding exercise and diet.

When asked if the result of this type of invasive surgery was worth the potential risks involved, most patients said yes. According to some studies there were possibly more psychological benefits rather than physical. Or as one doctor suggested, perhaps the physical benefits were that much better because of the psychological benefits.

Have you been considering Bariatric surgery as a way to deal with being overweight? Have you spoken with your doctor about the possibility of this type of procedure? If you are perhaps thinking about having it done, then you may want to do some in-depth research on the subject. Perhaps family or friends know the name of a doctor with whom you can speak about your questions and concerns. Write them down as you think of them prior to your appointment. As this is likely to be a life changing decision, be sure to get several opinions before you make the final decision.

By Weight Loss Surgery Editor

Share This