Bariatric Surgery: An Introduction

Bariatric surgery is the only proven long-term weight loss treatment. 

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More than 95% of people with obesity can't lose and keep off more than 10 lbs., even in the best of scenarios.

You are not alone – We are here to help.

For substantial and lasting weight loss, bariatric surgery combined with expert guidance in obesity management (i.e. diet, psychology, exercise) and the newest medications gives the single best chance at achieving your goals. Let us provide an overview about bariatric surgery as a first step in making an informed decision.

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Bariatric surgery, today, remains the most effective treatment to achieve sustainable weight loss and resolves major health diseases such as high blood pressure, diabetes and sleep apnea within days. In addition, patients often lose 25-40% of their body weight.

Because of this, surgery is recognized as one of the three pillars of obesity treatment as identified in the Canadian Adult Obesity Guidelines, alongside medications and psychological treatment¹. 

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Bariatric surgery is one of the most common procedures performed in the world and has an excellent safety profile on par with many other common procedures such as gallbladder or appendix surgery.

Surgery is seen as a safe pillar of therapy that can offer on average 50-60% of excess weight loss within 1-2 years and the resolution of many weight-related health conditions, including diabetes, high cholesterol and high blood pressure (60-80%, 60-65%,60-80% reductions respectively)². In addition, it can lower your risk of death, cancer and heart disease. 

Beyond the direct health benefits, weight loss of this magnitude opens doors to other surgeries that patients may have been waiting for, including joint surgery, hernia surgery and gynecologic surgery.

Weight loss of this kind also makes it easier to remain active and do the many things we enjoy in life. More than ever, today we know that achieving a better quality of life is just as important as extending one’s quantity of life.

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Surgery is seen as a safe pillar of therapy that can offer on average 50-60% of excess weight loss within 1-2 years and the resolution of many weight-related health conditions

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Before deciding to undergo bariatric surgery, just like all important decisions we make, it is important to better understand the risks and benefits of surgery and balance those against the health implications of living with obesity. 

Remember, at MyLife Bariatrics, our surgeons are dedicated to helping you make the right choice, and if that means you would be better cared for at regional hospital-based program vs. an out-of-hospital setting, like ours, we will guide you in the right direction.

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This part of the decision process for most patients is harder than it needs to be, and we are here to help.

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