After trying everything to lose weight and still being at the same point, some women turn to obesity surgery , also called bariatric surgery ( gastric banding , sleeve gastrectomy, gastric bypass , etc.). Many questions then arise regarding these medical procedures, which are not without risk. Hence the importance, in addition to a successful operation, of thorough preparation and impeccable follow-up care . Here you will find comprehensive advice articles, as well as numerous personal accounts.
Questions surrounding bariatric surgery
Which surgery should you choose: gastric banding, sleeve gastrectomy, or gastric bypass? How do you choose a surgeon? What are the risks and complications of bariatric surgery? How much does it cost? What BMI is required to qualify? What pre-operative steps should you take before surgery? What are the different stages? Will you need to take vitamins, and which ones are best after a sleeve gastrectomy or gastric bypass?
Will I need reconstructive surgery? Is it covered by Social Security? How much weight loss will I be able to achieve after the procedure? What will I be able to eat after a sleeve gastrectomy or gastric bypass? Will I need to continue dieting? What kind of physical activity should I do after bariatric surgery? What should I do if I experience pain? What should I do if I experience hair loss? What is dumping syndrome? Will it be easier to have children? What should I do if I regain weight? And where should I have the surgery?
These are all questions we have extensively addressed through testimonials and interviews with professionals. In this section, we will cover both the pre- and post-operative phases. You will also realize that the surgical procedure itself is not the most complicated part to manage, far from it . However, you will need to ensure you are surrounded by a highly competent team of professionals before, and especially after, your bariatric surgery.
Don't overlook the importance of the psychological aspect . Having psychological support before, during, and after the operation is crucial for its success, even years later. You can also discuss surgery on our forum or read the existing threads . Staying informed is key to your success! The management and support of obesity surgery in France
With nearly 60,000 procedures on average (and this number is increasing) , France is, in a way, the world leader in obesity surgery. This is probably due to the French healthcare system, which offers, within certain parameters, coverage by social security (more specifically, the national health insurance ).
While a few years ago the gastric band was often offered, today the most common procedure is the sleeve followed by the bypass.
Yet, turning to obesity surgery is never a decision taken lightly. The idea of going under the knife to lose weight is unappealing to everyone. However, as a last resort and in cases of massive (also called severe or morbid) obesity, medicine now offers obesity surgery, or bariatric surgery, as the only solution . Gastric banding, sleeve gastrectomy, gastric bypass—these are all rather daunting names that are difficult to grasp.
To help you make the right decision and support you throughout your pre- and post-operative journey, we have tried to answer all these questions. You can also discuss them on the obesity surgery forum we launched. Sleeve or bypass?
There are of course the technical questions: what is the difference between a sleeve and a bypass , for example, what are the results, the risks, etc.
On The Body Optimist, you'll find all the answers to your questions, with precise information on both the various existing surgical procedures and the latest published studies. These techniques are constantly evolving, and medium- and long-term results are beginning to reveal some challenges. At the same time, new, less invasive obesity surgeries may soon become available. It's therefore crucial to be fully informed before making a decision that will have a significant impact on your health .
Regarding cost and coverage, we will explain under what conditions bariatric surgery can be reimbursed by Social Security and what steps to take. The same applies to reconstructive surgery : abdominal surgery (abdominoplasty, body lift), arm surgery (brachioplasty), and thigh surgery (cruroplasty). You will also find numerous photos to visualize the potential results.
Besides the technical aspect, there's also the psychological aspect and the anxiety of the unknown. In these cases, what could be better than having all the information and knowing how it went for others? Reconstructive surgery and post-operative follow-up
On The Body Optimist you will find many testimonials about gastroplasty , sleeve gastrectomy or bypass surgery, as well as about the reconstructive surgery that is often necessary after such an intervention.
You'll find that while it works perfectly for some people, for others there are complications, and obesity surgery doesn't always give the expected results if you don't receive proper follow-up care. All the more reason to prepare thoroughly!
Each story is unique and retraces the witness's journey, the difficulties they had to overcome, and the results achieved in terms of weight loss and quality of life.
You will also find all the information about nutrition after sleeve gastrectomy. This includes recipes, textures, and quantities. The same applies to nutrition after gastric bypass surgery. It covers the different stages to follow, from the liquid phase to pureed foods, then minced foods, and finally the reintroduction of a more traditional diet.
We will also discuss the importance of vitamins after sleeve gastrectomy or gastric bypass surgery: how to choose them, how to avoid hair loss after bariatric surgery?
Finally, many testimonies will address all the personal difficulties one may face : learning to accept one's new body, the risks of separation from one's partner, changes in how others see you, grieving for your past life, etc. 