5 Common Bariatric Surgery Myths and Facts Every Patient Should Know
Bariatric surgery is often stigmatized unfairly. This safe and effective procedure can help you lead a healthier life. MD Bariatrics hopes to educate you with these important bariatric myths and facts:
Key Facts
1. Bariatric Surgery Changes Your Stomach’s Size
The majority of bariatric surgery procedures transform the size and shape of your stomach by removing part of the organ. This is one of the most common facts about bariatric surgery.
2. Dietary Restrictions Are Real
You will need to follow specific dietary restrictions post-surgery. These diets are designed to be healthier and are typically made up of smaller portions.
3. Weight Loss Is Not the Only Benefit
Weight loss is far from the only benefit bariatric surgery provides. The procedure significantly lowers the risk of developing high blood pressure, heart disease, and Type 2 diabetes.
4. The Age Range of Recipients
People mistakenly believe that only adults can undergo bariatric surgery. In reality, the youngest patient to undergo the procedure was a 12-year-old girl.
5. There’s More Than One Type of Bariatric Surgery
Gastric band, gastric sleeve, and gastric bypass are the most common bariatric procedure types. Doctors will help you navigate bariatric surgery myths and facts so you can enter into the procedure confidently.
Key Myths
1. Bariatric Surgery Is Dangerous
This is one of the most disingenuous myths about bariatric surgery. Thanks to recent advancements, the surgery’s risk level is on par with routine gallbladder removal.
2. Bariatric Surgery Keeps You From Having Children
While bariatric patients need to abstain from pregnancy for two years post-surgery, it’s simply untrue that you can never get pregnant again. Weight loss helps you become more fertile and can increase testosterone levels in men.
3. Bariatric Surgery Is Certain to Scar You
Bariatric surgery now results in minimal scarring, and this is one of the most common bariatric surgery myths you need to know is untrue. The newly used “pinhole surgery” method leaves significantly less scarring than previously used methods.
4. It’s Easy to Gain Weight Back
Bariatric surgery is proven to help patients lose upward of 50 to 100 pounds in the first year alone. Extensive studies demonstrate that the majority of patients keep their weight off 10 years after the procedure.
5. Insurance Does Not Cover Bariatric Surgery
It’s becoming much rarer for insurers to deny coverage. You’ll need to consider local state insurance laws and procedure qualifications to be approved, however.
Consulting a Bariatric Surgeon in Maryland
The compassionate professionals at MD Bariatrics are ready to help you start your weight loss journey. Get in contact with our offices to set up a consultation about bariatric surgery in Maryland.