Am I A Candidate
The prevalence of obesity seems to be increasing in most parts of the world with more than 250 million people worldwide suffer from obesity (7% of the adult population) and two to three times as many may be considered overweight. Obesity is defined as increased fatness, measured by a high Body Mass Index (BMI), large waist circumference, or a high waist/hip circumference ratio. It is much more than an aesthetic concern, obesity can cause an array of health problems including diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, sleep apnea, osteoarthritis and more than 10 types of cancers as well as poor physical functioning.
A common misconception about weight loss surgery is that it’s only for the morbidly obese. If you are just 25 kg (50 pounds) overweight you might be a candidate for weight loss surgery. You may be surprised to find that weight loss surgery may cure your diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. We believe it’s important to consider weight loss surgery even before major health issues arise.
Weight loss surgery is considered after overweight and obese individuals have tried to lose excess weight through diet and exercise but have unfortunately failed. Sometimes, the reason for failure is beyond one’s control because of genetics or disease. If you are one of these people, weight loss surgery might be the answer.
We follow International Guidelines published by National Institutes of Health (NIH) and international bariatric societies (IFSO & ASMBS) which has the following criteria for bariatric surgery consideration.
- Gastric Balloon: BMI greater than 27
- Bariatric Surgery (Gastric Bypass & Gastric Sleeve):
Considered from a BMI greater than 30
Recommended from BMI greater than 35
BMI Calculator
Some real life surgery benefits our patients have described:
Health Benefits of Weight Loss Surgery:
Extended Life Expectancy
Resolution of Obesity-Related Health Conditions
- Type 2 diabetes
- Depression
- Sleep apnea/respiratory problems
- Gastroesophageal reflux/heartburn
- Infertility
- Urinary stress incontinence
- Menstrual irregularities
- Asthma
- Skin breakdown
- Swollen legs/skin ulcers
- Extremity venous stasis
Reproductive Health Benefits
Long-Term Weight Loss
Predictors of Weight loss:
- Genetic & biological codes
- Individual age
- Pre-Surgery weight
- Overall health condition
- Ability to exercise
- Commitment to maintaining dietary guidelines and follow-up care
- Family & Friends support
Lifestyle Opportunities
- Improved job or career prospects
- Reduced shortness of breath
- Increased energy level
- Regularly get a good night of sleep
- Greater confidence
- Improved dating life
- Greater variety in choice of clothes
- Exercise is more rewarding
Why Bariatric Surgery?
The majority of people who consider weight loss (bariatric) surgery do so after years of unsuccessful dieting attempts, including participation in diet programs, taking weight loss medications and exercising. After years of losing weight and gaining it back, it is not unusual to blame yourself. Most of our patients have been on many diets and end up feeling like a failure. Dr. Tamer offers a safe and supporting environment; a successful weight loss journey with compassion and care for his patients from a dedicated center of an excellent team.
Morbid obesity is a disease requiring lifelong treatment. Bariatric surgery is a treatment option that alters the patient’s anatomy and physiology, while allowing for significant weight loss and the reversal or improvement of co-morbid conditions.
Which Procedure Is Right For Me?
Still undecided and don’t know which procedure to have? We can schedule a Phone/Video Consult directly with Dr. Tamer.