Bariatric Surgery Success


Do you know anyone who has had bariatric surgery, like gastric sleeve or lap band surgery, to promote weight loss? Was it successful? Anecdotes abound in both directions. Why does it work for some people and not for others?

Every reputable weight loss surgeon will give you the same advice: Bariatric surgery is a useful way to start your weight loss program if you are committed to real and lasting lifestyle change. In combination with diet and exercise, bariatric surgery can help you achieve amazing results. However, bariatric surgery is not a “magic bullet” that will allow you to continue to make the same poor choices about diet and exercise that contributed to your obesity in the first place.

The health hazards related to obesity are well documented. Overweight adults are at higher risk for diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease and many other conditions that will shorten your life span and affect your quality of life. Do you remember the days when you could take your children to the beach or a theme park? Are you concerned that you will not have the ability to enjoy your grandchildren in any way that is physically strenuous for you?

The key to weight loss is not easy, but it is not mysterious. Your body is like a furnace, receiving fuel in the form of food and burning calories based upon your activity. Weight loss only occurs when you eat less or exercise more. If you are ready to commit to both eating less and exercising more, then you are ready to lose weight. Bariatric surgery can “jump start” your weight loss program and help you achieve your goals faster, but surgery will not help if you continue to live a sedentary lifestyle and / or overeat routinely.

Attempting to lose weight can be challenging and emotional. If you have tried and failed repeatedly, perhaps it is time for you to consider professional help. If you would like to determine whether you are a candidate for bariatric surgery, contact us at Advanced Surgical and Weight Loss Institute, 375 Courtenay Parkway, Merritt Island, FL. Dr. Velarde has over ten years of experience in bariatric surgery, and he is fluent in both Spanish and English.