In Australia, most of the obesity surgeries are done laparoscopically, using keyhole surgery. This type of surgery usually means a shorter hospital stay, fewer complications, and a quicker recovery than open surgery.
Depending on the procedure, patients stay in the hospital for an average of 2 days after obesity surgery in Melbourne.
Medical benefits of obesity surgery and conditions that improve with it
Let’s consider some of the advantages of obesity surgery with different medical conditions directly related to obesity.
1. Hypertension and Obesity
Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is often linked to obesity. It occurs when the blood pressure against artery walls is too high, leading to serious health issues. People with a high BMI (classified as obese) are more likely to have high blood pressure. Conditions like sleep apnea and diabetes, along with smoking, poor diet, inactivity, and alcohol, can worsen hypertension.
Studies show that weight loss surgery, like gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy, can significantly reduce blood pressure. However, if you’ve had hypertension for over 10 years, it may be less likely to resolve completely after surgery.
Contributing factors like poor sleep and high-sodium diets can make hypertension worse. Whether through surgery or other methods, weight loss is one of the most effective ways to treat sleep apnea and hypertension.
2. Type 2 Diabetes and Obesity
Type 2 diabetes is often linked to obesity. It occurs when the body can't properly regulate blood sugar, leading to high blood sugar levels, which can damage cells, especially in the cardiovascular system. People with type 2 diabetes are at risk for high blood pressure, heart disease, and circulation problems.
How are they related?
Obesity is the most common cause of type 2 diabetes. Excess fat makes it harder for the body to use insulin effectively, leading to imbalances in blood sugar levels, which can cause extreme highs and lows.
Symptoms and Treatment
Weight loss can reverse many symptoms of type 2 diabetes. Bariatric surgery is often recommended for people with a BMI over 30 (with medical comorbidities) as a long-term solution. Many who rely on medications for blood sugar control may find they no longer need them after losing weight.
Surgery and Diabetes
Over the past decade, bariatric surgery has proven effective in resolving diabetes, reducing diabetes-related health issues, and improving long-term blood sugar control. Procedures like gastric bypass (mini gastric bypass / roux en y gastric bypass) and sleeve gastrectomy are particularly effective, with many patients seeing a quick reduction in their need for diabetes medications, even before significant weight loss.
Surgery tends to be more successful than diet and lifestyle changes alone, which have a high failure rate. If you're struggling with diabetes, surgical options might be worth considering.
3. Sleep Apnoea and Obesity
Sleep apnoea, where breathing stops and starts during sleep, is often linked to obesity. It usually occurs due to excess fat in the neck, which blocks the airway. Symptoms include loud snoring, choking sounds, daytime drowsiness, and trouble concentrating.
Impact of Obesity Surgery
Weight loss following obesity surgery can improve sleep apnea by reducing excess neck tissue and improving heart and lung function. Even modest weight loss can significantly reduce symptoms, though some may still need CPAP machines.
Benefits of obesity surgery
If you are considering obesity or weight loss surgery, read on.
The most prevalent chronic conditions experienced in Australia in 2022 were:A large number of these chronic conditions will see an improvement with weight loss.
- Mental and behavioural conditions – 26.1%
- Back problems – 15.7%
- Arthritis – 14.5%
- Asthma – 10.8%
- Diabetes – 5.3%
- Heart, stroke and vascular disease – 5.2%
- Osteoporosis – 3.4%
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) – 2.5%
- Cancer – 1.8%
- Kidney disease – 1.0%
1. Health Improvement
Weight loss surgery can greatly improve overall health by lowering the risk of obesity-related conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease. This is scientifically proven and recognised by many health organisations. It is currently the most effective option for treating and potentially reversing these chronic diseases.
2. Increased Mobility
Losing excess weight improves your ability to move comfortably and enjoy physical activities. It can also help with joint problems, leading to better joint health. As you lose weight and become more active, this cycle further enhances weight loss and overall health, benefiting your muscles, metabolism and joints. These benefits apply to all ages, making weight loss important for a healthier musculoskeletal system.
3. Durable Results
When paired with lifestyle changes, weight loss surgery can lead to long-term weight maintenance and health benefits. It is the most effective and lasting option for treating obesity. However, it's important to remember that surgery is a tool, not a cure, and maintaining results requires an ongoing commitment to healthy habits.
4. Psychological Benefits
Successful weight loss surgery is not just about physical health. It's a holistic approach that often boosts body image, self-confidence and mental health. Many patients choose this path to enhance their appearance, which can significantly increase self-esteem. While the primary goal of bariatric surgery is physical health, it's important to remember that emotional and psychological well-being are also integral components of overall health.
5. Reduced Medication Dependency
Weight loss surgery can reduce or even eliminate the need for medications used to manage obesity-related health issues. Many conditions may go into remission after surgery, allowing patients to stop taking certain medications. While these conditions aren't cured, maintaining a stable weight with healthy habits, such as regular exercise and a balanced diet, can keep them in remission for years or even decades.
What medical follow-ups will be necessary?
After bariatric surgery, regular medical follow-ups are essential to monitor your progress and address any issues. The schedule may vary depending on the surgery type and your health, but typically includes:
- Post-operative Appointments: Your surgeon will schedule follow-ups soon after surgery to check healing, manage any immediate issues, and guide you on your new diet and lifestyle.
- Nutritional Checkups: Since bariatric surgery can affect nutrient absorption, regular checkups with a dietitian or nutritionist are essential to ensure you meet your nutritional needs and correct any deficiencies.
- Weight Loss Monitoring: Your doctor will track your weight loss to ensure it's progressing safely and may also monitor other health metrics like BMI and waist circumference.
- Long-term Follow-up: Even after reaching your weight loss goals, you'll need ongoing checkups to maintain progress, address new health concerns and receive continued support.
It’s best to consult an obesity specialist before making any final decision.
Ready to take control of your weight loss journey? Book a consultation today to discuss your goals and explore the best options tailored to you. Our professionals are here to help you at every stage.
Still considering an option? Read our blog Weight Loss Surgery vs Weight Loss Medications. Which one's better? To understand more about both approaches, you can take further steps towards achieving your weight loss goals.
