With nearly 41.9% of adults struggling with obesity, this health concern has become a pressing global issue. Obesity is a complex health condition characterized by excess body fat and is linked to a variety of health risks. Among multiple interventions, bariatric surgery has proven to be a transformative option for those looking for significant and sustainable weight loss results.
This surgical approach not only addresses the physical aspects of obesity but also offers a comprehensive solution by promoting long-term improvements in overall health. As the obesity rate continues to rise, the professionals at BMI Surgery are dedicated to providing residents in Birmingham, AL, and the surrounding areas with effective weight loss solutions. If you’re questioning whether or not bariatric surgery is right for you, keep reading.
Signs & Symptoms of Obesity
Recognizing the signs and symptoms of obesity is crucial for each intervention and management. The primary indicator of obesity is an elevated body mass index (BMI), calculated by dividing your weight in kilograms by your height in meters. A BMI of 30.0 or higher categorizes an individual within the obese range. Elevated BMI levels signify an increased risk of health complications, including high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, and more.
Additional symptoms of obesity in adults include:
- Sleep apnea
- Back and joint pain
- Excessive sweating
- Persistent fatigue
- Shortness of breath
- Stretchmarks
To learn more about your body mass index, take a look at our BMI calculator.
Understanding if Bariatric Surgery is Right For You
Weight loss surgery isn’t an option for everyone. This surgery is designed to help those who have been actively trying to lose weight through traditional methods—diet and exercise—and have seen little to no success. Whether it be due to genetics or a lack of self-discipline, some individuals have a harder time than others losing weight and maintaining results. For this reason, bariatric surgery may be an option.
Those seeking relief from obesity symptoms must meet a variety of qualifications to undergo weight loss surgery. You may be a candidate for bariatric surgery if:
- Your BMI is greater than 30
- You have weight-related health issues
- You’ve lost weight and can’t stop gaining the weight back
- You haven’t been able to lose weight through exercise and diet
Weight Loss Surgery Options
ORBERA® Gastric Balloon
This temporary weight loss solution is ideal for those who struggle with self-control when it comes to eating. While your workout regimen may be showing signs of improvement, your urge to eat large portions at all hours of the day could be hindering your weight loss journey. With Orbera Gastric Balloon, you’ll feel fuller from eating less, and your body will begin to get used to ingesting smaller amounts of food.
Sleeve Gastrectomy
As the most common bariatric procedure, sleeve gastrectomy is designed for those who are severely obese—BMI is greater than 30. The structure of your stomach will be altered, reducing its size by about two-thirds. This will ultimately limit the amount of food you can eat and the number of calories that will be absorbed by your body.
Lap-Band®
Just like other forms of bariatric surgery, Lap-Band procedures will minimize your overall food intake by altering your stomach size. However, this weight loss surgery is customizable in that it can be reversed and modified.
Talk to the BMI Professionals About Bariatric Surgery
For those in search of a long-term solution to their weight loss struggles, BMI Surgery is here for you. Our team of professionals will perform an in-depth evaluation of your current condition and discuss your bariatric surgery options with you. Whether you’ve struggled with obesity your entire life or have recently been experiencing a weight loss plateau, our licensed and highly trained surgeons can help you achieve permanent weight loss for our patients.
