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FAQs on Laparoscopic Procedures

Dr. Arif Ahmad is very cognizant of the questions asked by many patients. Some of them include the following:

1. What is obesity?

Obesity is a health condition that leads to accumulation of fat on the body and has adverse effects on the patient’s health. To determine whether a person is obese or not, then he or she should have their body mass index (BMI) checked. If it exceeds 30, he or she is obese.

2. Are there any risks entangled with weight loss surgery?

All laparoscopic surgeries have potential risk. This is why it is important to choose an experienced surgeon who has been trained to mitigate any emerging issues.

3. Can a patient exercise after surgery?

Exercising is important for general health and activity is important during the healing process. Please discuss the appropriate activity level for each stage of your journey with your surgeon.

4. What are the nutrient requirements for weight loss surgery?

Vitamin and mineral supplementation is very important after bariatric procedures to prevent from nutritional deficiencies. Common supplements that may be recommended by your surgeon would be a multivitamin, calcium and b12.

5. Do insurance companies provide insurance coverage for weight loss surgery?

Most major insurance companies cover bariatric procedures. There may be out of pocket costs depending on your individual plan.

6. How does one calculate his or her body mass index (BMI)?

BMI calculators are the best way to get your estimated BMI. There are many apps and websites that will calculate this for you if you enter your height and weight.

After looking at the frequently asked questions, the next step is to learn more about weight loss surgery.

Risks Involved

Laparoscopic surgery, as weight loss surgery, does not fall short of risks. It is on this premise that the weight loss surgeons find it prudent to elaborate on the risks.

  • Malnutrition – This occurs when a patient’s body is deprived of key nutrients and minerals. These include vitamin B12, iron, vitamin D, and calcium.
  • May lead to dumping syndrome which can result in diarrhea, nausea, abdominal cramps or hypoglycemia.
  • Weight regain especially if not accompanied by exercises and a healthy diet
  • Dilation of the esophagus
  • Risk of infections
  • Acid reflux
  • Complication risk during or after the weight loss surgery.
  • Obstruction of the stomach