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Weight loss surgery is major surgery. Its growing use to treat
morbid obesity is the result of three factors:
- current knowledge of the significant health
risks of morbid obesity
- relatively low risk and complications of
the procedures versus not having the surgery
- ineffectiveness of current non-surgical approaches
to produce sustained weight loss
Surgery should be viewed first and foremost as a
method for alleviating debilitating, chronic disease. Qualifications for
the procedure is 100 lbs. above ideal body weight or
a Body Mass Index of 40 or greater (see BMI Chart), or a BMI between 34.9-39.9 with one or more documented co-morbid conditions, such as hypertension or diabetes. At the Weight Loss surgery
program at Monmouth Medical Center, patients are required to demonstrate
serious motivation and a clear understanding of the extensive dietary,
exercise and medical guidelines that must be followed for the remainder
of their lives after having weight loss surgery (see Life
After Surgery).
That is why you should make the decision to have weight loss surgery
only after careful consideration and consultation with the
multidisciplinary team at The Weight Loss Institute of New Jersey at Monmouth Medical Center. Our highly-qualified
surgeons will answer your questions clearly and explain the exact
details of the procedure, the extent of the recovery period and
the reality of the follow-up care that will be required. As part of our evaluation for weight loss surgery, we require
that you consult with our registered dietician and psychologist.
This is to help establish a clear understanding of the pre and post-operative
changes in behavior that are essential for your long-term success.
It is important to remember that there are no ironclad guarantees
in any kind of medicine or surgery. However, weight loss surgery
will only succeed when the patient makes a lifelong commitment.
Some of the challenges facing a person after weight loss surgery
can be unexpected. To help patients achieve their goals and deal
with the changes surgery and weight loss can bring, the Weight Loss
surgery program at Monmouth Medical Center provides a five-year
follow-up plan that includes clinical, nutritional and emotional support and education through your follow up visits and monthly support group meetings.
This surgery is only a tool. Your ultimate success depends on
strict adherence to the recommended dietary, exercise and lifestyle
changes.
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