5 Common Myths About Bariatric Surgery Debunked

As the field of bariatric surgery continues to grow, so do the myths and misconceptions surrounding it. These misconceptions can cause many people to avoid the life-changing benefits of bariatric surgery, out of fear or misunderstanding. In this blog post, we will debunk five common myths about bariatric surgery, to help you make an informed decision about whether bariatric surgery is right for you.

Myth 1: Bariatric surgery is only for people who are extremely overweight.

This is a common misconception about bariatric surgery. While it is true that bariatric surgery is typically recommended for people who are considered obese, it is not only for those who are extremely overweight. In fact, the National Institutes of Health recommends bariatric surgery for people who have a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or greater, or a BMI of 35-39.9 with an obesity-related condition such as diabetes, sleep apnea, or hypertension.

Dr. Adam Smith, a bariatric surgeon at Ultimate Bariatrics, explains, "Bariatric surgery can benefit a wide range of people who struggle with obesity, including those who are only moderately overweight. The most important factor is whether the patient has tried other weight loss methods without success, and whether they have an obesity-related condition that can be improved with weight loss."

Myth 2: Bariatric surgery is dangerous and has a high risk of complications.

While all surgeries carry some risk of complications, bariatric surgery is considered to be a safe and effective procedure with a low risk of complications. According to the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery, the risk of major complications from bariatric surgery is less than 1%. In fact, bariatric surgery has been shown to have a lower risk of complications than many other common surgeries, such as gallbladder removal or hip replacement.

Dr. Smith emphasizes, "Bariatric surgery is a major surgery, but with the right team and the right precautions, it can be a safe and effective treatment option for obesity."

Myth 3: Bariatric surgery is a quick fix for weight loss.

Bariatric surgery is not a quick fix for weight loss. It is a tool that can help patients achieve significant weight loss and improve their health, but it requires commitment and dedication to making lifestyle changes. Patients must be willing to make significant changes to their diet and exercise habits to achieve long-term success.

Dr. Smith notes, "Bariatric surgery is not a magic solution that will instantly make all of your problems disappear. It is a tool, a means to an end, that requires commitment and dedication to making lifestyle changes."

Myth 4: Bariatric surgery is expensive and not covered by insurance.

While the cost of bariatric surgery can vary depending on the type of procedure and the patient's insurance coverage, many insurance plans do cover bariatric surgery. In fact, the Affordable Care Act requires insurance companies to cover bariatric surgery for patients who meet certain criteria.

At Ultimate Bariatrics, we understand that paying for surgery can be a concern for many of our patients. Our specially trained insurance coordinators are here to assist patients in understanding their bariatric coverage and finding financing options if necessary.

Myth 5: Bariatric surgery is only for women.

This is a common misconception about bariatric surgery. While the majority of bariatric surgery patients are women, bariatric surgery can be an effective treatment option for men as well. In fact, men may be more likely to experience certain obesity-related conditions, such as sleep apnea and hypertension, which can be improved with weight loss.

Dr. Smith states, "Bariatric surgery is not gender-specific. It can benefit both men and women who are struggling with obesity and related health issues. In fact, many men have had great success with bariatric surgery and have seen significant improvements in their health and quality of life."

It's important for men who are struggling with obesity to understand that bariatric surgery is a safe and effective option for weight loss. By debunking this myth, we hope to encourage more men to consider bariatric surgery as a viable option for improving their health and achieving their weight loss goals.

Conclusion

Bariatric surgery is a safe and effective treatment option for those struggling with obesity and weight-related health conditions. However, it is important to separate fact from fiction when considering this option. It is essential to understand that bariatric surgery is not a quick fix, but a tool that requires commitment and dedication to making lifestyle changes. It is also important to work with a qualified bariatric surgeon and healthcare team to ensure the best possible outcome.

At Ultimate Bariatrics, we are committed to providing our patients with the highest quality of care and support throughout their weight loss journey. If you are considering bariatric surgery, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced bariatric surgeons to discuss your options and to debunk any myths or misconceptions you may have heard. Remember, your ultimate life starts here.