Bariatric surgery benefits and outcomes
Expertise leads to better bariatric surgery outcomes
At Penn Medicine, our bariatric surgery and weight management team understands that comprehensive bariatric surgical care and follow-up support are the keys to long-term weight loss.
Our surgeons are leaders in the field, performing high volumes of minimally invasive bariatric surgery. Studies show that this level of expertise leads to the best possible outcomes for people who have surgery. Our relationship with you doesn’t end after your surgery. We remain committed to your care for the rest of your life, with medical, nutrition, and mental health support whenever you need us.
Benefits of weight loss surgery
Diet and exercise are important for overall health, but they may not be enough for a person with obesity to reach a healthy weight. Studies show that less than ten percent of morbidly obese people lose weight with just lifestyle changes.
Losing weight helps people have more energy, improved joint pain and mobility, better sexual function, and more self-confidence. Research also shows that bariatric surgery has long-lasting positive effects on:
Obesity is a chronic disease caused by biological and medical factors. Bariatric surgery is well established as the most effective long-term treatment for obesity. About 90 percent of people who have bariatric surgery lose half their excess weight and go on to maintain that weight loss.
Obesity is linked to many serious conditions that impact health and quality of life, including sleep apnea, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. Weight loss surgery can help prevent or reverse obesity-related conditions by giving you a durable tool for achieving and maintaining a healthy weight. For many people, blood sugar levels start to normalize within just days of their procedure. You may also need fewer medications for weight-related conditions after surgery.
Bariatric surgery can help you live a longer life by preventing obesity-related conditions. Studies show that weight loss surgery reduces overall risk of death by 40 percent. People who have surgery have a 92 percent lower chance of dying from diabetes, a 60 percent reduction in risk of dying from cancer, and a 40 percent lower risk of dying from heart disease.
Achieving a successful outcome from bariatric surgery
While bariatric surgery results vary from one person to another, it’s possible to lose 100 pounds or more in the first year and maintain that weight loss through a commitment to healthy habits.
Surgery alone won’t guarantee that you achieve and maintain a healthy weight. Permanent lifestyle changes are necessary, too, including healthy food choices, portion control, hydration, and exercise. But you won’t have to go it alone.
At Penn Medicine, we provide bariatric patient support services and follow-up care for life. From ongoing nutrition and fitness coaching to psychological support and social services, we offer resources you need for an optimal surgical outcome.
Compassionate support and optimal results from Penn Medicine’s bariatric specialists
Whether you are pursuing surgical weight loss, nonsurgical weight loss, or a combination of both, we’re dedicated to helping you achieve long-term weight loss. At Penn Medicine, you’ll receive compassionate care from bariatric specialists who understand the challenges around losing weight. You also have access to support groups, where you’ll share encouragement and comfort with people on the same journey.
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