Bariatric surgery is a medical procedure intended to help individuals lose weight and reduce the risk of health complications due to obesity.
Post-gastric ring bariatric surgery is one of the most effective methods of achieving and maintaining significant weight loss results.
The Benefits of Post-Gastric Ring Surgery
Post-gastric ring surgery is a procedure in which an adjustable gastric band is placed around the upper part of the stomach creating a small pouch, reducing the amount of food that can be consumed at any one time.
The gastric ring can be adjusted to regulate the amount of food a patient eats, and it is a particularly helpful option for individuals with a body mass index (BMI) between 35 and 40.
Apart from weight loss, the benefits of post-gastric ring surgery include:.
- Lowering the risk or managing obesity-related medical conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, and heart disease
- Improved quality of life with increased mobility to engage in social activities, and activities that were difficult or impossible, before surgery.
- A significant reduction in the cost of medical treatment in the long run as the chances of health complications will have lowered, and the patient won’t need to take many medications.
Preparing for Post-Gastric Ring Bariatric Surgery
Bariatric surgery, including post-gastric ring surgery, requires a commitment to lifestyle changes and a significant investment in time, effort, and cost.
Before considering surgery, patients must undergo a thorough assessment, including blood tests, body measurements, and psychological evaluations to determine their eligibility for surgery. Your doctor and a surgeon specializing in bariatric surgery will guide you through the entire process.
The Post-Surgical Lifestyle
The post-surgical period is an essential phase of post-gastric ring surgery, and a patient must perform specific lifestyle changes to ensure they achieve optimal results. Some of these changes include:.
- Following a strict diet plan that involves consuming smaller portions of healthy foods rich in protein and low in fat and sugar
- Daily exercise routine to help burn calories and enhance weight loss
- Regular consultations with a qualified nutritionist to ensure the right nutrition and prevent malnourishment
- Medical checkups and follow-up workups to detect and treat any postoperative complications and monitor your progress
Managing the Recovery Period
The recovery period post-gastric ring surgery is generally shorter compared to traditional bariatric surgeries. The hospital stay may range from one to two days.
However, it’s essential to take a minimum of one week off work or other activities to let your body recover fully. During this time you should avoid any physical activities that include strenuous lifting and driving. Instead, you will need to focus on your diet, small walks, and gentle exercises like yoga.
How to Maintain Healthy Weight after Bariatric Surgery
Although bariatric surgery can help you achieve significant weight loss, maintaining a healthy weight afterward depends on your persistence with your daily routine. Here are some factors to consider post-surgery:.
- Consistency with your dietary plan, including consuming foods rich in vitamins, minerals, and lean protein sources
- Engaging in regular exercise to keep your body active and healthy
- Drinking enough fluids, preferably water, to ensure hydration and help prevent constipation
- Support from family and friends to keep you motivated and accountable
Challenges of Post-Gastric Ring Surgery
As with any medical procedure, Post-Gastric Ring Bariatric Surgery comes with some challenges. Some of the challenges are:.
- A higher risk of infection as with any surgical procedures and chance of bleeding.
- Reflux and development of stones in the gallbladder
- About 20% of patients may experience minor complications like vomiting, acid reflux, or stomach ulcers.
- Long-term nutritional deficiencies such as anemia, osteoporosis, and low protein levels necessary for muscle building, growth, and repair, may occur.
Conclusion
Bariatric surgery, including post-gastric ring surgery, is an effective method of achieving and maintaining significant weight loss results for individuals for whom traditional methods of weight management have failed.
It’s essential to follow healthy nutritional plans, regular exercise routine, and medical follow-up after the surgery to keep the weight off and enjoy benefits such as lower expenses for the treatment of future health-related complications and an improved quality of life.