It's crucial to understand that surgery is merely a tool to assist you in losing weight permanently.
Here are some characteristics that show if your bariatric surgery has been successful:
1. Significant weight loss - Weight loss surgery is considered successful if you lose 50-75% of your excess weight and keep the majority of it off. Excess weight is classed as any weight above a BMI (body mass index) of 25. These weight loss statistics apply for the first 1-2 years following the operation.
2. How well the procedure and your recovery went - Following your sleeve gastrectomy, you will need to rest for at least two weeks. Gentle walks are encouraged, but make sure to schedule enough time off of work, and ask friends and family for assistance if needed. Everyone heals differently though, so it's crucial to pay attention to your body and consult your doctor if you have any questions.
3. Any improvements in your health conditions - Weight loss can improve the symptoms of type 2 diabetes such as controlling blood glucose levels, in addition to helping with back pain, blood pressure and even sleep apnoea; you may no longer need to wear a CPAP machine at night following extensive weight loss.
4. If you are able to make permanent changes to your lifestyle - Adopting a new way of living including healthy and balanced eating, along with staying involved in your favourite activities is essential following bariatric surgery.
5. The ability to move easier - Starting gradually with walking and make sure to include resistance exercise (with body weight or free weights) when you feel able. Eventually, exercise should be intense enough to leave you feeling slightly out of breath and you’ll start to feel an improvement in your endurance, flexibility and strength. Check out other Ramsay Health Care post surgery exercise advice here.
6. You’ve made a diet work for you - You’ve adapted to your post-surgery diet and practice good dietary habits following your doctor or dietitian's plan that fit in your lifestyle well. Eating regular meals, including plenty of protein and vegetables at each meal and staying hydrated too (although not at the same time!).
7. Not being vitamin deficient - You need to take daily vitamin and mineral supplements straight after your bariatric surgery for the rest of your life. If you stay on top of taking your multivitamins, calcium and vitamin D, iron and three monthly B12 injections you are less likely to have any deficiencies.
8. Improved mental health - Your mental health will hopefully improve with your new lifestyle. Make sure you have people supporting you and please seek support if you need reassurance or are finding it difficult to cope or have symptoms of anxiety or depression.
9. Increased life expectancy - This is often due to symptoms of obesity comorbidities such as diabetes or cardiovascular disease improving.
10. And finally… Whether you feel happier and healthier after the procedure - Bariatric surgery is not only about weight loss, but everything that comes along with it!