Choosing a Weight Loss Surgery Center

By Sherril Steele-Carlin

Your health is suffering, and your weight is skyrocketing.  You've tried every fad diet and diet drug on the market today, yet the scale still doesn't budge.

You're afraid there is no solution to your weight and health problems.  However, there is another choice in the weight loss war, and it's weight loss surgery – for a permanent solution to your weight loss dilemma.

Weight loss surgery isn't for everyone, but for those who fit some specific criteria, it is a viable option.  With the rise in obesity in America, there are suddenly weight loss surgery centers springing up on every street corner, it seems.  Choosing to have weight loss surgery is a major decision in your life, and choosing the right center can mean the difference between weight loss success and failure.

What Type of Weight Loss Surgery Center?

Not all weight loss surgery centers are created equal. Most experts agree you should look for a program that offers everything, from support groups to follow-up. Obesity is a lifetime disease, and so it's quite important for the center to keep in touch with people, help them if they slide, and help them eliminate bad habits. Centers that simply perform the surgery and leave the patient high and dry afterward are unfortunately all too common, and potential patients should avoid them at all costs.

When you choose a surgery center, you should also know their record of success, and how long they have been doing the surgeries. The center you choose should not be afraid to discuss their record – if they are, then pick another center. If you're looking at different centers, check out the support groups too, and see how you connect with patients and staff. Speak with as many centers as it takes to find the right one for you. Don't be afraid to look at more than one, and don't be afraid to ask questions. Make sure the center and doctor you finally choose is recommended by the American Society of Bariatric Physicians (ASBP).

What Type of Weight Loss Surgery?

There are three main types of weight loss surgery being performed today at most all surgical weight loss clinics: the Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass, which creates a small stomach pouch and bypasses part of the small intestine; the Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass, which is similar to the first surgery, but is done laparoscopically, so it reduces the size of the incision, and reduces the pain and recovery time of the surgery, and the LAP-BAND surgery, which is a band fastened around the stomach to create a small pouch.

Each surgery literally creates a smaller stomach that holds less food, and each has its pluses and minuses.  Your doctor should help you choose the right surgery for you.  The best center will offer more than one type of surgery, because everyone is different, and so are your specific surgical needs.  Make sure before you have surgery that you consult with your regular physician.

The After Effects of Weight Loss Surgery

Most patients are extremely pleased with their weight loss results, and the most reputable clinics have a near 100 percent rate with their bariatric patients. Weight loss surgery is not easy, but it can give some miraculous results, and create new lives for the obese as they shed their weight and keep it off.

One successful weight loss surgery patient is Glenn Goldberg, who has lost over 160 pounds after he underwent weight loss surgery in 2002. Today, Goldberg makes his living as a weight loss surgery coach and motivator. He says, "The surgery is dammed hard, and I want people to know that, but today, I'm fit and healthy, and have achieved my fitness and health goals!" Glenn can be reached through his web site below for more information on what to expect after your surgery.

Some Things You Should Know about Weight Loss Surgery

Weight Loss surgery is not for everyone. Candidates must be at least 100 pounds over your ideal weight and ready for a permanent weight loss solution. Surgery should be the last resort, rather than a quick-fix solution. Surgery is a long-term answer to managing your weight, and you need to be aware it will change your life.

Experts say you're a good candidate for surgery if you've tried to diet and exercise, and you've had success, but you've failed in the long term. You should be motivated, informed, and usually under age of 60. You need to be able to walk, and not be wheelchair bound, because you will need to do some exercise after the surgery. Most importantly, you must be willing to make a lifestyle change, and have the support from family and friends that will help you meet your goals.  If you meet these qualifications, you're a good candidate.

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