If you are considering gastric bypass surgery then your main concern will probably be the benefits you can expect to experience over the next few years as your weight is reduced. However, the longer term effects of bariatric surgery are also important and a recent study has revealed that they can be very positive. 

Long Term Effects of Gastric Bypass Surgery

The new study followed more than 800 people who were eligible for gastric bypass surgery in the US. The researchers compared the long term health outcomes of those who chose to have the surgery and those who did not. The results revealed that patients who went ahead with the procedure experienced benefits that went on for more than ten years. Many of the patients achieved long lasting weight loss after bariatric surgery. After 12 years, 70% of the patients who had the gastric band surgery were still maintaining at least a 20% weight loss and most were maintaining a steady weight. People who had undergone the gastric bypass procedure also experienced some significant health benefits, such as a reduced risk or remission of type 2 diabetes. Problems such as high blood pressure and dyslipidemia were also less common among those who had opted to have the weight loss surgery.

Long Term Thinking

The results of this study show that weight loss surgery can have a long term impact on your weight and your health. However, in order to achieve these benefits it is vital to commit to long term changes in your diet and lifestyle. The first year or two after the procedure will be the toughest as you will be trying to lose a substantial amount of weight. However, you will still need to be careful after you reach your target in order to maintain a healthy weight. You must be willing to make permanent changes to improve your health when you have gastric bypass surgery.