By Aloysius Aucoin
Have you been struggling to lose the extra pounds in order to start a healthier lifestyle? Have you found that dieting and exercising have not worked for you? If so, you may want to explore the various forms of weight loss surgery. You may be aware of the many techniques that are currently used by plastic surgeons to reduce the size of stomachs in order to control food intake. If you believe that this operation can help turn your life around, you should consider seeking out a surgeon and have a consultation. What should you discuss during the consultation? These topics can help you find out if the operation will work for you:
Are you qualified for the Operation?
When you're chatting with the doctor about the operation, you'll want to discuss your current condition and any previous medical issues. The doctor will need to determine if your current weight makes you qualified for the operation. Usually people with a BMI over 30 are able to have the operation. You'll also need to discuss any other physical problems. Certain conditions can complicate the ability of the operation to be a success, so make sure you do yourself a favor and disclose your entire medical history. After an extensive questioning process, the surgeon can make the determination if you're able to have the operation.
Which Surgery Should You Get?
If you take the time to do some research online, you'll see that there are many different kinds of weight loss surgery available to patients that qualify for the operation. When you chat with the surgeon, see what operation they recommend. Learn as much as you can about how the surgery will go and what changes you can expect. For example, some operations will remove a portion of the stomach while others may have a band placed around the stomach to limit the intake of food. Take the time to decide which route makes you feel the most comfortable. Different surgeries have different side effects and risks as well, so learn about which avenues are safer to explore.
What Can You Do to Reduce the Risks?
All forms of weight loss surgery are complicated and certainly come with some form of risks and side effects. When you chat with the surgeon, you should talk about the steps you can take before the operation to reduce the chance of something going wrong. You may be asked to refrain from smoking or drinking for a period of time before the operation. Your diet may need to change as well. Make sure you take all of the surgeon's recommendations very seriously, as these life changes can help you ensure that the surgical and recovery process goes off without a major hitch.
Don't forget, the consultation phase is also a way for you to find the right surgeon for the operation. Take the time to talk to more than one doctor about your potential need for the operation. You should make sure you find a doctor that makes you feel comfortable.