Our Summary

The International Federation for the Surgery of Obesity and Metabolic Disorders (IFSO) has been collecting data on weight-loss surgeries, also known as bariatric surgeries, since 2014. The data includes information from 51 different countries, and over 190,000 surgeries that took place since 2014. The report found that the most common types of weight-loss surgeries were Roux en Y gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy. The average patient undergoing these surgeries had a body mass index (BMI) of 41.7 before surgery, which is classified as severely obese. Most patients were able to go home within two to three days after their surgery. The report also found that one year after surgery, patients had lost almost 29% of their original weight on average, and over 66% of patients who had been taking medication for type 2 diabetes no longer needed it. The results varied significantly depending on how much weight patients lost, and there were also large differences in access to and practice of weight-loss surgery in different countries. This ongoing collection of data will help researchers better understand who is undergoing weight-loss surgery and how it is affecting their health.

FAQs

  1. What is the average BMI of patients before undergoing weight-loss surgery according to the IFSO report?
  2. What were the most common types of weight-loss surgeries reported by the IFSO?
  3. What percentage of patients no longer needed medication for type 2 diabetes one year after weight-loss surgery according to the IFSO data?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might tell a patient considering obesity surgery that while the surgery can be very effective in helping patients lose weight and improve their overall health, it is important to remember that it is not a quick fix. Patients will need to make significant lifestyle changes, including adopting a healthy diet and regular exercise routine, in order to maintain their weight loss and see long-term success. Additionally, patients should be aware of the potential risks and complications associated with surgery, and should carefully consider all of their options before making a decision. It is important to work closely with a healthcare team, including a dietitian and mental health professional, to ensure a successful outcome.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for obesity surgery are those who have a BMI of 40 or higher, or a BMI of 35 or higher with obesity-related health conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or sleep apnea. These patients have often tried other methods of weight loss, such as diet and exercise, without success. Additionally, patients who are psychologically prepared for the lifestyle changes that come with weight-loss surgery are also considered good candidates. It is important for patients to discuss their options with a healthcare provider to determine if weight-loss surgery is the best option for them.

Timeline

  • Before surgery:
  1. Patient consults with a bariatric surgeon to discuss options for weight-loss surgery.
  2. Patient undergoes a series of pre-operative tests and evaluations to determine eligibility for surgery.
  3. Patient may be required to follow a specific diet and exercise regimen in preparation for surgery.
  4. Patient attends counseling sessions to prepare mentally and emotionally for the surgery.
  5. Patient schedules a date for the surgery and makes necessary arrangements for post-operative care.
  • After surgery:
  1. Patient undergoes the weight-loss surgery procedure, which can vary depending on the type of surgery chosen.
  2. Patient stays in the hospital for a few days for monitoring and recovery.
  3. Patient gradually transitions back to a liquid diet, then soft foods, and eventually solid foods over the following weeks.
  4. Patient follows up with the bariatric surgeon for post-operative visits to monitor weight loss progress and address any concerns.
  5. Patient may experience rapid weight loss in the first few months after surgery, followed by a slower rate of weight loss over time.
  6. Patient may need to make significant lifestyle changes, including dietary modifications and regular exercise, to maintain weight loss and overall health.
  7. Patient may experience improvements in obesity-related health conditions, such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and sleep apnea.
  8. Patient may need to undergo plastic surgery to remove excess skin resulting from rapid weight loss.
  9. Patient continues to attend follow-up appointments with the bariatric surgeon and other healthcare providers to ensure long-term success and monitor for any complications.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the different types of weight-loss surgeries available and which one would be most suitable for me?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with weight-loss surgery?
  3. What are the expected outcomes and benefits of weight-loss surgery?
  4. What lifestyle changes will I need to make before and after surgery to ensure success?
  5. How long is the recovery process and what can I expect in terms of pain and discomfort?
  6. Will I need to follow a specific diet or exercise plan after surgery?
  7. How often will I need to follow up with you after the surgery for monitoring and support?
  8. Are there any long-term side effects or complications I should be aware of?
  9. Will my insurance cover the cost of weight-loss surgery?
  10. Can you provide me with information on support groups or counseling services for weight-loss surgery patients?

Reference

Authors: Welbourn R, Hollyman M, Kinsman R, Dixon J, Liem R, Ottosson J, Ramos A, Våge V, Al-Sabah S, Brown W, Cohen R, Walton P, Himpens J. Journal: Obes Surg. 2019 Mar;29(3):782-795. doi: 10.1007/s11695-018-3593-1. Epub 2018 Nov 12. PMID: 30421326