Obesity is a chronic disease that affects a significant proportion of the Australian population and is defined as a BMI (Body Mass Index) greater than 30. Many factors contribute to obesity, such as genetics, metabolism, environment and eating behaviours. For many people diet and exercise will not be enough to achieve a healthy weight and surgery can help them reach their goals. Surgery also helps to achieve a reduction or resolution in other medical problems, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnoea and high cholesterol, to name a few.
Obesity surgery is very common with well over 25 000 cases being recorded in Australia last year alone. Bariatric surgery is very safe with the majority of patients having excellent health outcomes. In fact, for patients with a BMI over 35, current medical data suggests an extension of life by approximately 7 years.
If your BMI is greater than 35 then you really should speak with a doctor about the benefits of bariatric surgery or ask for a referral to see Dr Gately at Sea Change Weight Loss Clinic to discuss your options.
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