During the journey toward a healthier lifestyle, there may be many differing opinions that often lead to more questions than answers. This is why we have gathered some top questions about weight loss surgery in Lubbock and consulted with Dr. Eggl and Dr. Purtell – board-certified general surgeons and renowned experts in bariatric surgery at West Texas Bariatrics.
1. What advice do you give to your patients during the process of weight loss surgery?
Dr. Purtell emphasizes the importance of commitment and perseverance throughout the weight loss journey: “This is not a sprint. This is a marathon. This is a lifestyle.” He encourages patients to commit entirely to this new lifestyle, and to stay focused on their goals. Of course, following the recommended dietary and exercise guidelines are necessary; however, Dr. Purtell points out that mindset is extremely important.
Throughout your weight loss journey with West Texas Bariatrics, not only should you fully commit, set your own goals, and keep yourself accountable, but you should also seek support from your healthcare team and loved ones.
2. What are the most common barriers to weight loss?
Dr. Purtell identifies several common factors that patients may consider as barriers to their weight loss goals. Joint pain may make it difficult to exercise. Thyroid issues, genetics, or other medical issues may make it difficult to lose weight in general. However, Dr. Purtell points out that bariatric surgery can effectively overcome all of these obstacles. It provides a viable solution for sustainable weight loss, especially for those with medical issues.
3. What does this Lubbock weight loss surgery program look like?
The bariatric surgery program at West Texas Bariatrics offers comprehensive support throughout the weight loss journey. First, patients attend a free weight loss surgery seminar to learn about the surgery and get any questions answered directly by our surgeons.
Then, thorough consultations determine which surgery is the right one for each individual. Pre-op testing and lab work are an important part of the process. They help the surgeons decide if each patient is a good candidate, and then build an appropriate plan for before, during, and after surgery.
After surgery, during the maintenance phase, patients are encouraged to adhere to their goals, make minor adjustments to their calorie intake as needed, and stay connected with their healthcare team for guidance and support.
Here at West Texas Bariatrics, we will be with you every step of the way. We encourage frequent check-ins with our team to make sure you stay on track to meet your weight loss goals!
4. What are the healthiest foods?
Dr. Purtell recommends a balanced diet with an emphasis on lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. He advises that patients focus on nutrient-dense foods that provide essential vitamins and minerals, while limiting processed foods and added sugars to keep you on track.
5. How often and how intensely do I need to be working out after surgery?
Post-surgery, Dr. Eggl recommends a gradual approach to exercise, starting with low-impact activities and gradually increasing intensity as tolerated. He advises patients to aim for working out 3-5 times per week for 30 minutes at a time. The intensity of your workouts will depend on where you are at on your health journey, but Dr.Eggl believes you can’t go wrong with walking!
6. What is the healthiest way to lose weight?
According to Dr. Eggl, a combination of dietary modifications, regular exercise, and behavioral changes are the healthiest way to lose weight. Bariatric surgery may be considered for individuals who have struggled to achieve significant weight loss through traditional methods and require additional support.
At West Texas Bariatrics, our surgeons walk you through the surgical process. Our dedicated team and a registered dietitian guide you in your journey before and after surgery as well!
7. How long does a patient have to stay in the hospital after surgery?
The majority of patients who undergo bariatric surgery at West Texas Bariatrics can expect to leave the hospital on the same day. However, approximately 25% may require an overnight stay for monitoring and post-operative care.
8. How much weight will I lose?
Weight loss outcomes vary among individuals and depend on various factors. These factors include starting weight, adherence to dietary and exercise guidelines, and metabolic factors. Usually, what is seen in our patients is a 50-60% loss of their excess weight after surgery. Dr. Purtell advises focusing on achieving sustainable weight loss rather than fixating on a specific number on the scale.
9. Is Bariatric surgery the easy way out when it comes to weight loss?
There is a huge lifestyle change involved before and after surgery. Dr. Eggl and Dr. Purtell dispel the misconception that bariatric surgery is the easy way out for weight loss. They emphasize that bariatric surgery is a medically-proven intervention for individuals struggling with obesity and can provide significant health benefits. These benefits include improved metabolic health and reduced risk of obesity-related complications. “The surgery is not going to do everything for you,” Dr. Purtell says, “but it will absolutely give you the best opportunity to be successful long-term.”
10. How long does it take to fully recover from weight loss surgery?
Recovery time from weight loss surgery varies among patients and depends on the type of procedure performed. In general, patients can expect to return to normal activities within a few weeks. Full recovery is typically achieved within three to six months.
Dr. Eggl and Dr.Purtell are board-certified, respected surgeons, and they provide invaluable insights into the complex journey of weight loss, bariatric surgery, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. At West Texas Bariatrics in Lubbock, patients can expect comprehensive support and guidance every step of the way, empowering you to achieve their weight loss goals and improve your overall health and well-being!
For more information about bariatric surgery and weight loss solutions, sign up for a free seminar today!
