Should a 45-year-old man consider bariatric surgery?

Question

Hi doctor,

I am a 45-year-old man struggling with obesity and prediabetes. I have tried diets, exercise, and even medications like GLP-1s, but I always end up gaining the weight back. My doctor brought up the idea of metabolic surgery, but I am nervous about how invasive it is and what the long-term effects are. Would it reverse things like insulin resistance or high blood pressure? I have heard some people need vitamin supplements forever after surgery. I just want to know how realistic it is to expect major health improvements, and what the recovery and lifestyle changes are like afterward.

Please advise.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have read your query and can understand your concern.

Bariatric surgery, while effective for weight loss and improving related health conditions, carries both short-term and long-term risks and potential complications. Positive outcomes include significant weight loss, improved metabolic health (like diabetes remission), and reduced risk of cardiovascular events and certain cancers.

However, side effects can range from common ones like nausea and vomiting to more serious complications such as bowel obstruction, dumping syndrome, and malnutrition. Post-surgery, you need to take multivitamins plus separate supplements of vitamins B12, D, calcium, and iron.

After surgery:

Drink plenty of water between meals, but avoid taking large amounts of water during meals. Avoid sugary drinks.
Eat a balanced diet, small, frequent meals like five to six times a day, especially lean protein.
Eat slowly and chew thoroughly to avoid overeating and help digestion and absorption.
Engage in physical exercise daily.
Regular medical check-ups with your doctor. Follow your surgeon's advice strictly and follow his plan.
Monitor your progress. Celebrate the success. It is a process not a quick fix. So adjust your plan so that you can maintain it long-term.
Keep journals to track what you eat and what exercise you do.
Have patience and emotionally try to be strong.
Take your supplements regularly.

I hope everything will be better.

Thanks and regards