Discovering whether you are a good candidate for weight loss surgery, according to Dr. Carlos Barba

If you have seemingly tried everything to lose weight, you may be discouraged and upset. You may have tried dozens of different diet plans and online programs. You have exercised a healthy amount, but you have not seen the results you want.

Being overweight or obese is hard on your body. It can cause health problems like Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, joint pains, and even cancer. If your health is your highest priority, it may be time for you to consider weight loss surgery.

Dr Carlos Barba, a weight loss surgery specialist from Harlingen, TX, explains who makes a good candidate for weight loss surgery and how you can begin the process of losing weight and improving your overall health.

Finding Good Candidates

To judge whether you are a good candidate for weight loss surgery, specialists like Dr Carlos Barba will ask you many questions about your health and lifestyle. Above all, doctors want to rule out people who are not committed to completely changing their lifestyles before and after the surgery.

You will be asked which types of diets you have tried. Many people find it difficult to lose weight when they are simply cutting calories alone. They may also neglect to ensure that the calories they are eating represent a fully balanced and healthy diet. You will also be asked whether you have been faithful to your exercise routine, getting at least 30 minutes of exercise four to five times a week.

To become a candidate for weight loss surgery, it is necessary to lose as much weight as possible on your own before beginning the process. This shows that you are serious about changing your lifestyle and will be ready for the more drastic changes that will happen directly before and after the surgery.

A psychologist or social worker will interview you. This healthcare professional will ask you why you want to lose weight and make sure you are ready for a permanent change to a healthy lifestyle. They will examine your reasoning behind choosing weight loss surgery and make sure that you are mentally and emotionally stable before the surgery takes place.

Requirements for Weight Loss Surgery

In general, Dr Carlos Barba notes that weight loss surgery is recommended for those with a BMI of 40 or higher. People with a BMI between 35 and 40 and obesity-related health conditions like heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, or severe sleep apnea are generally considered good candidates.

You should weigh under 450 pounds when you are ready for surgery. This is the maximum weight that most hospital radiology equipment can handle. If you must lose weight to meet this requirement, dietitians and exercise specialists can help you.

The Preparation Process

Since weight loss surgery can lead to a lasting and ideally permanent change in your lifestyle, it takes several months to prepare. For the six months before surgery, you will be placed on a strict diet by a nutritionist who works with your weight loss surgeon. You will not only cut calories, but you will also incorporate nutritious foods like low-fat dairy, lean proteins, vegetables, fruits, and whole grains. You will be asked to discontinue your use of alcohol and tobacco.

Two weeks before the surgery takes place, you will be placed on a liquid diet. This is extremely difficult for many people, but it is necessary to prepare the body for surgery.

Post-Surgery

After your weight loss surgery, you will continue on a liquid diet for several weeks. Gradually, you will be able to add soft foods, then small amounts of ordinary foods as your stomach permits. You may lose weight rapidly during this phase of your treatment.

Maintenance

After surgery, you will be asked to start exercising as soon as you have healed. Many people choose to join a gym or take exercise classes for the social benefits of working out.

You will need to continue eating a low-calorie, fully balanced diet permanently after your surgery. If you fail to keep up with your diet, you may regain weight. This could represent a major waste of your time and money in getting the surgery, and your doctor will do everything they can to encourage you to stay with the program. Ultimately, the responsibility of keeping up with the program rests on you.