Why does weight loss surgery fail?
It is a big, brave decision to undergo weight loss surgery, and it can bring up many fears. A common one is “what if the weight loss surgery fails?”. If you are on this journey, you have probably been wanting better health and to be more comfortable in your body for a really long time. Weight loss surgery is usually the last option after years of dieting, exercise, medications, and shame, so it often a last beacon of hope for a healthy body. This adds to the pressure of wanting to ensure it is successful and fear of another failed weight loss journey.
What defines success with weight loss surgery?
Before discussing the factors influencing the outcomes of weight loss surgery, it is important to define what is considered a success. Generally, losing 50% or more of your excess weight and being able to maintain this 2+ years after the surgery is considered a success. We can also think about improvements in chronic health issues and increased quality of life as other ways to think about a successful procedure. These are key points to keep in mind to avoid unrealistic expectations of your post-surgery body. It is estimated that about 15% to 35% of patients either do not achieve this amount of weight loss or regain the lost weight.
Factors that influence successful weight loss surgery
So why do some people achieve better results than others? There are a few things that can affect your outcome such as the type of surgery, the success of the surgery itself, and your recovery. These are all important things to discuss with your surgeon to ensure you fully understand the implications. Other factors that reduce the ability to lose and keep of the weight are:
- Higher starting weights with BMI’s over 50
- Genetic factors
- Low socio-economic groups
- Being single
- Being older
- Low education
- Working part time
- Working in food related jobs
- Diagnosis of depression
- History of binge eating
- Grazing eating patterns
If some or many of these factors related to you, it may seem daunting, however knowledge is power! Some of these factors you have control over, such as working on your mental health and eating habits to improve your outcomes. Also, the research shows that following nutritional guidelines post-surgery and engaging in regular exercise improves your results, which are other factors that are in your control. Therefore, having access to the right information and a good team of professionals around you, plays a big role in your success.
If you would like to chat further about your weight loss surgery journey, please feel free to contact me. I offer in person counselling services from my offices in Edithvale and Somerville as well as Australia wide online.
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