Gastric bypass and the LAP BAND procedure are two types of weight loss surgery that can help people struggling with obesity to control their weight. Weight loss surgery works by reducing the functional portion of the stomach to limit food intake and decrease appetite. It can be an effective treatment option for people who have been unable to lose weight through more traditional methods. Unfortunately, obese people considering weight loss surgery are often discouraged by a few frequently stated myths.Since 1959, people struggling to lose weight have heard the depressing statistic that 95 percent of people who lose weight eventually gain it all back. Luckily, this has been proven to be completely inaccurate. Weight loss surgery requires a lifetime commitment to maintaining a healthy lifestyle, but it can be very effective in helping obese patients maintain a healthy body weight. Most of the people who experience a weight gain after surgery persist in snacking between meals, tend to consume too many high-calorie liquids, and don't follow their doctor's recommendations.
Another myth about weight loss surgery that influences success rates is the belief that gastric bypass and the LAP BAND procedure produce rapid weight loss. People who have unrealistic expectations about how much weight they will lose often become discouraged. It is important to remember that gradual weight loss produces the best long term results and is the most effective in improving your overall health and well-being.
To determine if weight loss surgery is right for you, it's best to meet with an experienced bariatric surgeon. He or she can evaluate your medical history and weight loss goals to determine if gastric bypass or the LAP BAND procedure may be an appropriate treatment option. Your doctor can also provide you with information about the advantages and disadvantages of each procedure.
