7 Myths about Weight Loss Surgery in Mexico (2020)

Myths about Bariatric Surgery in Mexico

January 16, 2020 Medical Toursim

Obesity or being overweight is a common health problem in the US today with more than 93.3 million U.S. adults being affected. It costs thousands of dollars to tackle this issue with surgical procedures. This is one of the main reasons why most people in the US prefer to get bariatric surgery in Mexico as the cost of treatment is quite lower compared to the US.

Firstly, if you decide to lose weight through surgery, it is wise to go for reputed and well-established centers in Mexico with qualified surgeons. You must learn about the procedure, the hospitals, their practices, recognitions, and surgeons. Perform thorough research before finalizing a hospital.

Secondly, don’t fall for all the myths that are linked to bariatric surgery for weight loss. Whether you are a young adult or a senior, with advanced weight loss treatment like bariatric surgery you can greatly benefit.

Here are some myths about bariatric surgery to help you decide better.

Myth: Mexico Bariatric Surgery is Unsafe

Truth: All surgeries carry risks, but there are no more inherent risks of surgery simply because the surgery is taking place in Mexico. In fact, Mexico-based bariatric surgeries result in some of the lowest risks, because surgeons are focusing their careers and education on just bariatric cases. Look for dedicated weight loss surgery centers in Mexico, ask lots of questions and use your common sense when scheduling with a provider.

Myth: Bariatric Surgeons in Mexico are Inferior

Truth: This couldn’t be further from the truth. Mexico produces some of the highest caliber weight loss surgeons, with years of education and planning. Some surgeons in Mexico have studied advanced laparoscopic and surgical techniques and approaches in the United States, Europe, Brazil, etc. Mexico bariatric surgeons can be Board-Certified by surgical boards in Mexico. Review a bariatric surgeons education and experience before placing a deposit for surgery. Look for their license numbers, board-certification(s), and years of experience performing bariatric surgery in Mexico for traveling patients (medical tourism setting).

Myth: People who have bariatric surgery regain their weight

Truth: This surgery is helpful for people who are struggling to lose an enormous amount of weight. It improves the biological action (hormonal changes) to reverse the progression of obesity. Studies (1) have found that more than 90% of people who had severe obesity, were able to maintain 50 % or more of their excess weight loss with bariatric surgery. However, just surgery is not enough. Lifestyle changes like a balanced diet and regular exercise play a vital role in maintaining weight loss.

Myth: Only dieting and exercise is sufficient for weight loss

Truth: Those who are obese are often pointed out by their friends and family to focus harder on dieting and exercise to lose weight. But the fact is, they have already tried all the measures as well as medications to do the same. Excessive fat accumulation in the body can also happen due to impaired body metabolism. If you are among those who have tried all measures and yet not achieved the desired result, bariatric surgery is the best solution to get visible results.

Myth: Bariatric Surgery is dangerous

Truth: All surgeries whether minor or major, have the risk of complications or infections. It completely depends on the body-to-body metabolism. However, the bariatric procedure is safest, as there are advanced surgical techniques and technology nowadays. The risk of death within 30 days of the procedure is 0.13% (e.g. one in a thousand patients, which is much lower compared to any other major surgery or organ transplant).

Myth: After bariatric surgery, pregnancy is not possible

Truth: This surgery does not affect your ability to conceive and give birth. All you need is to maintain weight during pregnancy. You can plan your pregnancy after you wait at least 18 months from the bariatric surgery.

Myth: Bariatric patients become alcoholics after surgery

Truth: Only a minor percentage of people have reported this to be an issue with certain bariatric surgeries, namely the gastric bypass surgery. The truth is that surgery changes the body’s metabolism, which makes them alcohol sensitive i.e., the effect of alcohol will be felt with fewer drinks. Hence, those who have drinking problems before the surgery must discuss it with their bariatric surgeon in advance.

Myth: Mexico Bariatric Surgery is Unsafe

Myth: Bariatric Surgeons in Mexico are Inferior

Truth: This couldn’t be further from the truth. Mexico produces some of the highest caliber weight loss surgeons, with years of education and planning, Mexico bariatric surgeons can be Board-Certified by surgical boards in Mexico. Review a surgeons education and experience before placing a deposit for surgery.

Conclusion

It is important to understand that obesity is not just caused due to lifestyle habits but also due to factors like hormonal and impaired body metabolism. Bariatric surgery is an advanced and safe way to get rid of the excess weight for people who are struggling with obesity.

Further Reading:

American society of metabolic and bariatric surgery. https://asmbs.org/patients/benefits-of-bariatric-surgery.

30 Myths and Facts of Weight Loss Surgery. https://renewbariatrics.com/bariatric-surgery-myths/.

Bariatric surgery misconceptions. https://asmbs.org/patients/bariatric-surgery-misconceptions.

Benefits of Choosing Mexico Board Certified Bariatric Surgeon. https://renewbariatrics.com/benefits-choosing-board-certified-mexico-bariatric-surgeon/.