What is weight loss surgery?
Weight loss surgery is a surgical procedure, that facilitates substantial weight loss and is generally suitable for individuals who are obese and who have already tried healthy diet and exercise with no substantial benefit or success. Surgery not only results in significant weight loss but also cures or improves other diseases or co-morbidities associated with obesity such as type II diabetes, sleep apnea, arthritis, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and quality of life.
What different types of weight loss surgery are available?
There are various types of weight loss surgery. One of the most popular weight loss procedures undertaken here at Obesity Surgery Manchester and globally is the sleeve gastrectomy. A sleeve gastrectomy involves removing three quarters of the stomach ( the hunger hormone generating part of stomach) so that patients feel fuller quicker and also there is restricted capacity of stomach. Secondly, we have the gastric bypass procedure which involves creating a small stomach pouch to restrict food intake. Following this, a Y-shaped section of the small intestine is attached to this pouch which subsequently allows the food to bypass the lower part of the abdomen, as well as bypassing around a third of the proximal small bowel. Another popular procedure is the gastric band, this procedure involves attaching the band around the upper part of the stomach which consequently creates a small pouch just above the band and this restricts the food that can be eaten comfortably. Finally, we also offer gastric balloons here at Obesity Surgery Manchester and these can be in place for either 6 or 12 months.
Do I have to change my diet following weight loss surgery?
To avoid gaining weight following weight loss surgery, patients must adjust their new lifestyle by adopting a balanced diet to maintain their results. Immediately following your surgery, there are some imminent dietary changes that must be adhered to as advised by our dietician and specialist bariatric nurses. In general patients need to be on liquids for weeks, semisolids for 2 weeks then can start solid foods. Patients can slowly return to a balanced diet and our team of dieticians and bariatric nurses will support and guide you in this process.
Do I have to exercise following weight loss surgery?
In combination with a healthy diet, patients should adopt a weight loss regime to maintain their results. If you do not wish to join a gym, there are many activities that you can do to help get your heart rate up, including power walking, swimming, cycling or even doing some gardening. In terms of the time frame in which you can start exercising, during your first week postop you can commence some short walks. Most procedures undertaken by Professor Senapati are undertaken via the laparoscopic (keyhole) approach and this means that most regular activities can be resumed within two to four weeks following surgery.
If you are considering whether weight loss surgery is the right choice for you, why not book in for a free mini consultation with the renowned weight loss Surgeon Professor Senapati. Call us or email us for more information today for consultation times and dates via the contact us page. We look forward to meeting you!