Understanding the facts and myths surrounding bariatric surgery

Rajev Nain, MD, is a specialist in minimally invasive robotic and endobariatric surgery with Inova. He practices at offices in Fairfax and Lorton and performs surgeries at Inova Fair Oaks Hospital.

Bariatric surgery, also known as weight loss surgery, is a viable solution for those dealing with obesity and its related medical and metabolic issues, especially when traditional methods like diet and exercise have not been effective. Gaining accurate information and debunking common myths about bariatric surgery, along with understanding the eligibility criteria, can help you determine if this procedure is right for you.

These surgeries help you lose weight, get healthy and stay healthy by improving, if not curing, many of the medical problems directly related to obesity. You’ll end up much more engaged in your health and improve your overall lifestyle.

Here are some real answers about the myths surrounding weight loss surgery.                                    

Myth 1: Weight loss surgery is the “easy way out”

Choosing weight loss surgery is a complex decision that involves several preparatory steps including education on nutrition, exercise and behavioral changes. It’s crucial to understand the procedure itself, its benefits and its potential side effects. After surgery, patients must recover and embrace a new lifestyle. These concepts are thoroughly covered in individual and group pre-surgical educational sessions. After surgery, the patient’s diet and mobility will progressively improve under close supervision from our medical team. Additionally, the support and understanding of family and friends are vital throughout this journey.

Culturally, many social events in the United States are centered around food, which will require significant adjustments:

• What choices will you make on a daily basis and when dining out at a restaurant?
• What will you consume at gatherings like parties and weddings?
• How will you handle situations where you’re pressured to eat certain foods?
• What will your exercise routine look like?

To maintain your health and sustain your weight loss, it’s essential to diligently follow the program designed by your healthcare team. Our team is highly committed to supporting and engaging with our patients.

Myth 2: Weight loss surgery is cosmetic surgery

Weight loss surgery is not the same as cosmetic surgery. It is a surgical procedure designed to aid weight loss by limiting food intake, reducing appetite and cravings, and addressing the adverse metabolic effects of obesity. In contrast, cosmetic surgery focuses on enhancing your appearance with procedures such as liposuction, tummy tucks, breast enhancement and skin rejuvenation.

Myth 3: Only people who need to lose hundreds of pounds can have weight loss surgery

You don’t need to be extremely overweight to qualify for surgery. If you’ve gained weight and developed certain health issues, including the following, you may be a candidate for weight loss surgery:

• Heart disease
• Hypertension
• Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease or nonalcoholic steatohepatitis
• Prediabetes or type 2 diabetes
• Sleep apnea

Your eligibility will be assessed based on your body mass index (BMI), which is calculated from your height and weight. If your BMI is between 35 and 39.9 and you have any of the medical conditions listed above, you may be eligible for surgery. For patients of Asian ancestry, the BMI threshold is lower at a BMI of 35 due to differences in body composition.

Myth 4: Weight loss surgery is risky

In the 1970s and 1980s, weight loss procedures lacked the stringent standards we have today. Fortunately, advancements have been made, and these surgeries are now highly standardized and among the safest available. Today, doctors must complete a year-long fellowship after residency and adhere to rigorous medical protocols during and after surgery.

The procedures are minimally invasive and typically performed using robotic or laparoscopic techniques, resulting in smaller incisions and quicker recovery times. Patients are able to walk and start consuming liquids on the day of the surgery and are usually discharged the next day.

Myth 5: Weight loss procedures are reversible

Weight loss surgery is generally considered a permanent solution. However, if complications arise and adjustments are necessary, your provider will make that decision with you. A full reversal can be performed if other issues necessitate it and you are in good health. The only exception is sleeve gastrectomy, which cannot be reversed but may be able to be converted to another procedure if needed.

Myth 6: Weight loss surgery can sometimes lead to nutritional deficiencies

This is true. If you undergo weight loss surgery and fail to regularly take your vitamin and protein supplements, you may develop nutritional deficiencies. Protein is particularly important because it serves as the primary building block for your body, aiding in the repair of muscles, skin, bone structure and hair, as well as the production of hormones.

Fortunately, if you do develop nutritional deficiencies, they can be treated promptly to prevent any negative effects. During our office follow-up visits, our team regularly orders lab tests to monitor for any deficiencies. We also recommend bariatric-friendly products for protein and vitamin supplementation.

Myth 7: Insurance companies don’t cover surgical weight loss

The reality is that until about 10 – 15 years ago, few health insurers covered weight loss procedures. Today, most carriers, including Medicare, provide coverage. Initially, Healthcare.gov (Obamacare) did not include weight loss procedures. However, due to efforts by patients and advocacy groups who argued that weight loss is an essential part of healthcare, most Obamacare policies now offer coverage for these surgeries, which has opened the door for most commercial and government insurers to cover these surgeries as well.

Our benefits team will review your insurance coverage, and our program team will meet with you individually to develop an action plan on the day of your consultation.

A safe solution that leads to a healthier lifestyle

Today, weight loss surgery is safe and standardized, with many patients maintaining their weight loss for years. Inova’s team consists of surgeons, exercise physiologists, mental health therapists and program coordinators who are prepared to guide you through every step of the process.

Learn more about Inova’s Weight Loss Services.