Bariatric surgery, also known as “chirurgie bariatrique” in French, is a procedure that involves reducing the size of the stomach to help individuals with obesity lose weight. While some may view it as a cosmetic procedure, there is growing evidence that suggests bariatric surgery should be considered a medical necessity for certain individuals. In this article, we will explore the reasons why bariatric surgery should be viewed as more than just a cosmetic option.
Firstly, obesity is a serious medical condition that can have numerous negative effects on an individual’s health. Those who suffer from obesity are at a high risk of developing a range of life-threatening conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, and sleep apnea. Bariatric surgery has been proven to not only help patients shed excess weight but also to improve or even reverse these conditions. By reducing the size of the stomach, bariatric surgery restricts the amount of food intake, resulting in significant weight loss and often leading to the resolution of obesity-related health issues.
Secondly, bariatric surgery offers long-term benefits that go beyond weight loss. Research has shown that individuals who undergo bariatric surgery have a higher chance of sustaining long-term weight loss compared to those who solely rely on diet and exercise. This is due to the physiological changes that occur after surgery, such as altered hormone levels, reduced appetite, and increased feelings of fullness. By addressing the underlying causes of obesity, bariatric surgery provides patients with an effective tool to achieve and maintain a healthy weight, leading to improved overall health outcomes.
Moreover, bariatric surgery is a cost-effective intervention compared to the ongoing expenses associated with obesity-related healthcare. Obesity places a significant burden on healthcare systems, as individuals often require long-term medical management for related conditions. By offering bariatric surgery as a medical necessity, healthcare providers can not only improve the patient’s health but also reduce the financial burden on the system. Studies have shown that the cost of bariatric surgery is often offset by the long-term savings in healthcare costs due to reduced medication use, hospitalizations, and treatment for obesity-related conditions.
Lastly, it is important to acknowledge the psychological impact that obesity can have on an individual’s mental well-being. People with obesity frequently face discrimination and stigma, leading to low self-esteem and depression. Bariatric surgery can help individuals regain their confidence and improve their quality of life. By achieving significant weight loss, patients often experience improved mental health, increased self-esteem, and a better overall body image.
In conclusion, bariatric surgery should be considered a medical necessity due to its potential to improve or even reverse obesity-related health conditions, provide long-term weight loss, reduce healthcare costs, and improve mental well-being. As our understanding of the benefits of bariatric surgery continues to grow, it becomes clear that this procedure has the potential to significantly impact the lives of individuals suffering from obesity. By recognizing bariatric surgery as a medical necessity, we can offer an effective solution to combat the global obesity epidemic and enhance the health and well-being of countless individuals.
For more information visit:
Obesity Care Clinic Bariatric | téléconsultation médicale
https://www.obesitycareclinicbariatric.com/
