The Benefits of Weight Loss Surgery & How to Choose the Right Surgeon

Beyond shedding pounds, weight loss surgery offers a host of health benefits and can significantly improve your quality of life.

If you’re thinking about weight loss surgery, you may already know how life-changing it can be. Weight loss surgery today is considered safe and effective, thanks to modern techniques that are less invasive, with fewer complications, and quicker recovery times. Strict medical standards, highly trained surgeons, and thorough care before and after surgery all contribute to the high success rates and lasting benefits many patients experience.

However, the journey to a healthier you begins with finding the right surgeon – someone who’s skilled, compassionate, and able to guide you safely through the process.

Below are some of the top benefits of weight loss surgery along with a few essential factors to consider when choosing your surgeon.

Key Benefits of Weight Loss Surgery

1. Long-Term Weight Loss Success Weight loss surgery, when combined with lifestyle changes, has been shown to deliver lasting weight loss results. Procedures like a sleeve gastrectomy or gastric bypass help patients lose and maintain a significant percentage of excess weight. While everyone’s journey is unique, most patients experience a steady drop in weight, improving their health and overall confidence. In fact, studies show an average of 50-70% of excess weight lost and maintained even five years post-surgery.¹
2. Improvement in Health Conditions Obesity can lead to numerous health complications, including diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, and sleep apnea. After surgery, many patients see a reduction—or even elimination—of these issues. Blood sugar levels often stabilize, blood pressure lowers, and breathing becomes easier, resulting in a decreased reliance on medication and fewer health risks.
3. Enhanced Quality of Life Weight loss surgery can increase energy levels, allowing patients to engage in physical activities they may have struggled with before. This boost often leads to increased social activity, a more positive outlook, and a better quality of life overall. Simple joys like playing with kids, traveling, or simply walking up a flight of stairs without breathlessness become possible.
4. Psychological Benefits The physical transformation can also bring psychological benefits. Improved self-esteem, reduced anxiety or depression related to body image, and a renewed sense of self-worth are common. Weight loss surgery can be a powerful tool in building mental and emotional health.
5. Longevity Studies show that patients who undergo weight loss surgery may have a longer lifespan than those with untreated obesity. Reduced health risks and increased quality of life can contribute to a healthier, longer life. In fact, according to studies, bariatric surgery has been associated with a 30-40% reduction in mortality risk for patients with obesity, extending life expectancy by an average of 6.1 years.²

What to Look for in a Weight Loss Surgeon

1. Board Certification and Experience Choose a surgeon certified in bariatric or metabolic surgery, as this certification reflects specialized training. Experience counts: the more surgeries a surgeon has performed, the better they can handle various cases and potential complications.
2. Comprehensive Care Approach Successful weight loss surgery is more than the procedure itself; it’s a journey that includes pre-operative education, post-operative follow-up, and a support team. Look for a surgeon who offers a comprehensive program that involves dietitians, psychologists, and fitness experts to support you through each stage.
3. Strong Communication and Personalized Care A good surgeon listens to your questions and provides clear answers, creating a treatment plan that aligns with your needs and goals. You should feel comfortable discussing your concerns, as a strong doctor-patient relationship can enhance your confidence and peace of mind.
4. Reputation and Patient Reviews Patient testimonials can offer insights into the surgeon’s skill and bedside manner. Look for feedback on results, communication, and support. If a surgeon has consistently positive reviews, it’s a good sign of reliability and patient satisfaction.
5. Hospital Accreditation The facility where your surgery will take place is equally important. Accredited centers often have higher standards for patient care, meaning a safer and more comfortable experience. Look for programs recognized by the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP) or similar accreditations.

Weight loss surgery can be a life-changing decision that transforms your physical and mental health. To set yourself up for success, take the time to research and choose a surgeon with the right credentials, support system, and a caring approach to patient care.

You can find everything you need, along with the support and care you deserve with Dr. Hesham Atwa and his team. You can learn more or schedule your consultation by visiting https://journeytothenewyou.com/contact-us/.

¹ https://asmbs.org/resources/metabolic-and-bariatric-surgery/
² https://www.jwatch.org/na53611/2021/05/25/bariatric-surgery-associated-with-longer-life-expectancy