Why Bariatric Surgery?
“So, why do you perform bariatric surgery?” This is a question that patients, healthcare providers, and even some of my own family members ask. This question is the very reason why many of us become Bariatric Surgeons.
My exposure to Bariatric Surgery is probably not much different than your own surgeon. In the early 1990’s, I was fortunate to train in a program where some of the best and brightest attending surgeons were doing an operation called the Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass. It was relatively unknown by many patients at that time. I worked with my mentors in Bariatric Surgery every opportunity I could, and I enjoyed the technical aspects of the procedure. As I completed my training, I knew that I wanted to develop a career fashioned after my mentors who trained me.
When I completed my training, I began my own practice as a Bariatric Surgeon. It really wasn’t until I saw first hand the impact these lifesaving procedures had on people that I began to understand why my teachers performed Bariatric Surgery. It isn’t really about the weight loss. Rather, it is about taking a person who struggles with diabetes; or the person who suffers with obstructive sleep apnea; or even someone who cannot participate in life because of body size limitations, and embarking on a journey with them to help them find a new life. The ability to offer people a new life, without the burdens of diabetes, sleep apnea, that can now move more freely to enjoy life is a very satisfying experience.
Bariatric Surgery has come a long way since the 1990s. Multidisciplinary programs allow bariatric surgeons to interact with a broad range of healthcare professionals like dietitians, physical therapists, behavioral health specialists, exercise specialists and nurses who all work together to achieve one goal: help people achieve a healthier life. So why do I do Bariatric Surgery? I, like your own surgeon, do it because I believe it is the best job in medicine. If you haven’t visited your bariatric program in a while, please do so. We all are committed to not only perform the surgery but also support your ongoing success.
By Troy Glembot, MD, FACS
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I’ve been thinking about doing the surgery, but honestly, I’ve been a bit scared. My doctors all tell me it’s the way to go. I am 160 lbs overweight and my health isn’t the best.
Comment by Mark C. — July 16, 2008 @ 6:45 pm
Truly. i am afraid myself of getting this surgery done.. but now that i read this article i feel more secure with doing so.
Comment by Tina N — July 20, 2008 @ 11:28 pm
This surgery sounds very interesting.I will look more into it.
Comment by Judy W. — July 22, 2008 @ 11:34 pm
Ive been reading up on the surgery for some time and have also been contemplating it.Now im sure i will be having the prcedure performed shortly..Thank You
Comment by Diane B — July 23, 2008 @ 7:34 pm
Heaven sent!!! Thanks for the bariatric surgeons of the world.. You people rock!!!!!
Comment by Lori R — July 23, 2008 @ 8:19 pm
I know now i will be getting the surgery thanks to focus28 just what the doctor order a website with helpful info.
Comment by teresa g — July 23, 2008 @ 8:41 pm
I had the surgery & it has changed my life forever. feel fit & happy.
Comment by Jessie D — July 25, 2008 @ 12:44 pm
If you plan on getting this surgey.. it will make you feel like a totaly different person.. I think it was the smartest choice i ever made. I feel so much better with my self now!
Comment by Tara E. — July 25, 2008 @ 5:41 pm
I had the surgery 2 months ago and feel great. If anyone is in doubt about it, go for it. It was the best thing I ever did in my life.
Comment by Zoe C. — August 1, 2008 @ 5:25 pm
I have been debating having the surgery, only because I know that it will change my life forever. What I need to realize, is that it will change it for the good, not for the bad. With the help of this article and everyone’s comments on it, I think it’s time I go for it. thanks
Comment by Betti Z. — August 5, 2008 @ 3:21 pm