Beyond the scale: Benefits of bariatric surgery

When it comes to weight loss, focusing on the scale can be both motivating and defeating. There are more important benefits to losing weight. In addition to obvious (and not-so-obvious) health benefits, bariatric surgery can boost confidence and enhance quality of life. The bariatric team at Mercy Fitzgerald Hospital shares some non-scale victories, observed over many years of successfully treating morbid obesity.

Reduced need for medication

Patients often have the goal of relying less on medication for conditions such as diabetes, blood pressure and high cholesterol. Often, bariatric surgery is considered one of the most effective ways to control blood sugar and blood pressure.

“The reason this tends to be successful is that it leads to many hormonal changes which can help reverse these medical conditions,” says Mercy Fitzgerald bariatric surgeon Kanika Trehan, MD. “After surgery, we have noticed many patients are able to either reduce their medications or stop them entirely.”

Better sleep

Sleep apnea or snoring is common in obese people and is caused by an accumulation of fatty tissues around the upper respiratory muscles. A bariatric surgeon is skilled in the removal of this tissue, leading to a reduction in or elimination of these symptoms.

“This results in significantly improved quality of sleep, and therefore provides more energy for patients to engage in more exercise and better eating habits,” Dr. Trehan says.

Increased endurance and movement

Another benefit is the reduced pressure on the joints, which results in lessened joint pain.

“Because patients experience less pain and have improved sleep quality, exercising becomes easier and endurance increases,” says Mercy Fitzgerald bariatric surgeon Prashanth Ramachandra, MD.

Simple tasks, such as bending down to tie shoes or being able to move without assistance, are other benefits worth celebrating.

“Patients become emotional in their journey as they notice that increased endurance and range-of-motion translates into the ability to play and pick up children or grandchildren,” Dr. Ramachandra says.

Improved relationships

In addition to their physical appearance and medical conditions, obesity can also affect people both socially and emotionally.

“People with obesity may struggle with low self-esteem, especially if they are unable to lose weight with diet and exercise alone,” Dr. Trehan says. That low self-esteem can inadvertently affect personal relationships.

“We often see patients with a renewed confidence after surgery which motivates them to continue the journey and maintain healthier lifestyle choices,” she adds.

Fertility

Obesity affects our hormones which impacts fertility in both men and women. “Studies show that even losing 10-20 pounds can make a significant positive impact on our ability to conceive,” says Dr. Trehan.

For more information about the bariatric program at Mercy Fitzgerald Hospital or to schedule an appointment, visit trinityhealthma.org/mercy-bariatrics or call 610.534.6170.