weight loss sagging stomach skin

DO I QUALIFY FOR WEIGHT LOSS SURGERY LOSS (QUIZ)

Have you been trying to lose weight, but no matter what you do, the weight still doesn’t go away? Have you ever wondered if you qualify for weight loss surgery? Our article below will answer the most frequently asked questions about this issue.

WHAT IS WEIGHT LOSS SURGERY?

Weight loss surgery, also known as bariatric surgery, is a medical procedure to help people lose weight when other methods haven’t worked. During the surgery, a doctor makes changes to your stomach or intestines to limit the amount of food you can eat or the nutrients your body absorbs. This can lead to significant weight loss over time. It’s usually considered when a person has a high Body Mass Index (BMI) or obesity-related health issues. The surgery is just one part of a bigger plan that includes lifestyle changes like eating healthier and being more active. It’s important to talk to a doctor to see if weight loss surgery is the right option for you.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF WEIGHT LOSS SURGERY?

Weight loss surgery, or bariatric surgery, can offer several benefits for individuals struggling with obesity. Some of the key advantages include:

  • Effective Weight Loss: Bariatric surgery can lead to significant and sustained weight loss, helping individuals achieve a healthier weight and reduce obesity-related health risks.
  • Improvement in Health Conditions: Many obesity-related health problems, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and sleep apnea, may improve or even resolve after weight loss surgery.
  • Enhanced Quality of Life: Losing excess weight can improve overall well-being, increase energy levels, and enhance mobility, leading to a better quality of life.
  • Long-term Results: Unlike some other weight loss methods, bariatric surgery often provides long-term results, helping individuals maintain a healthier weight over time.
  • Reduction in Medication Dependence: As weight decreases and health improves, the need for medications to manage obesity-related conditions may decrease or be eliminated.
  • Positive Impact on Mental Health: Achieving weight loss goals can boost self-esteem and mental well-being, reducing the risk of depression and anxiety associated with obesity.
  • Increased Lifespan: Weight loss surgery has been linked to an increased lifespan, particularly when it comes to reducing the risk of obesity-related diseases and complications.

WHAT CONDITIONS MUST BE MET FOR BARIATRIC SURGERY?

  • Have a high Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 or more, or a BMI greater than 35 along with certain health issues related to obesity, like diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, sleep apnea, joint problems, or other obesity-related concerns.
  • Be at least 18 years old.
  • Have already tried other methods for losing weight, like dieting, exercise, or supervised weight loss programs.
  • Be committed to avoiding tobacco and illegal substances (recreational drugs).
  • Have a supportive network of friends and family.
  • Be committed to adopting a healthier lifestyle, including better eating habits and regular physical activity.
  • Commit to follow-up appointments with the bariatric program after surgery to achieve the best results together.

HOW TO CALCULATE BMI?

To calculate BMI (Body Mass Index), follow these steps:

MEASURE YOUR WEIGHT

Weigh yourself in kilograms (kg) or pounds (lb).

MEASURE YOUR HEIGHT

Measure your height in meters (m) or feet (ft).

USE THE FORMULA

Calculate BMI using the formula: BMI = weight (kg) / (height (m))^2

If using pounds and feet, the formula is: BMI = (weight (lb) / (height (ft))^2) * 703

INTERPRET THE RESULT

A BMI below 18.5 is considered underweight.

A BMI between 18.5 and 24.9 is within the normal range.

A BMI between 25 and 29.9 indicates overweight.

A BMI of 30 or higher suggests obesity.

WHO IS NOT A CANDIDATE FOR WEIGHT LOSS SURGERY?

If you are younger than 18 years of age, pregnant or planning to be pregnant, have had few other attempts at weight loss, or if you won’t agree to follow all the dietary rules before and after the surgery, then you will be disqualified.

HOW MUCH WEIGHT DO YOU NEED TO LOSE TO QUALIFY FOR WEIGHT LOSS SURGERY?

Typically, as a general guideline, it may be necessary for you to achieve a weight loss of 5 to 10 percent of your total body weight before undergoing weight loss surgery. This preparatory weight loss is often recommended to optimize the safety and effectiveness of the surgical procedure. Your healthcare provider will provide specific guidance tailored to your individual health and circumstances to ensure the best possible outcome from the surgery.

WHAT IS THE SAFEST WEIGHT LOSS SURGERY?

After looking at all the good things and possible problems with weight loss surgery, we can say that Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy is the safest one. This surgery makes your stomach smaller, so you eat less. But, like most surgeries, there’s a chance of side effects and complications.

WHAT IS THE LOWEST WEIGHT FOR WEIGHT LOSS SURGERY?

There’s no specific weight requirement for qualifying for gastric sleeve surgery or other bariatric procedures. However, your doctor will check if you’ve tried to lose weight through diet and exercise and are facing difficulties in shedding weight on your own.

WILL SKIN TIGHTEN UP AFTER WEIGHT LOSS?

Often, people confuse loose skin with extra fat, which tends to be soft and jiggly. If you can pinch more than an inch of skin between your fingers, you likely have more fat to lose before your skin tightens. It’s important to note that your skin won’t retract until the excess fat is gone.

WHAT IS THE LEAST PAINFUL WEIGHT LOSS SURGERY?

Laparoscopic surgery poses fewer risks than open surgery and can result in less pain and scarring. Recovery time is often quicker with laparoscopic surgery. However, for specific individuals, open surgery—a procedure with a single, large cut in the abdomen—might be a more suitable option.

DOES EVERYONE HAVE LOOSE SKIN AFTER BARIATRIC SURGERY?

Not everyone who undergoes bariatric surgery will experience loose skin, as the likelihood of loose skin depends on various factors such as age, genetics, the amount of weight lost, and how quickly the weight loss occurs. Typically, individuals who lose a significant amount of weight, especially in a short period, are more prone to loose skin. Bariatric surgery often leads to substantial weight loss, which can result in the reduction of fat tissue. However, the skin may not always contract and tighten accordingly, leading to loose or sagging skin. 

HOW MANY PEOPLE FAIL WEIGHT LOSS SURGERY?

Bariatric surgery failure is described as achieving or maintaining less than 50% of excess weight loss (EWL) within 18 to 24 months or having a body mass index (BMI) greater than 35. The reported failure rate for RYGB is around 15%, with a long-term failure rate ranging from 20% to 35% and a revision rate of 4.5%.

WHICH WEIGHT LOSS SURGERY HAS THE HIGHEST SUCCESS RATE?

  • Gastric bypass surgery: 60-70%
  • Sleeve gastrectomy: 50-60%
  • Gastric band surgery: 50%

CAN PREGNANT OR LACTATING WOMEN HAVE SURGERY CURRENTLY?

During pregnancy or while nursing, attempting weight loss is not advisable. Instead, focus on maintaining a healthy and well-balanced diet, ensuring sufficient sleep, staying hydrated, and engaging in moderate physical activity. Prioritizing these aspects will not only provide a positive foundation for your baby but also enhance your overall well-being. These practices will contribute to better preparation in case you consider pursuing a weight loss procedure in the future.

DO YOU HAVE ANY MEDICAL CONDITIONS RESULTING FROM YOUR WEIGHT?

If you meet the other eligibility criteria, you could still qualify for an ESG even if your BMI is on the borderline. This applies particularly if you are experiencing weight-related conditions like high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea, and so forth.

CAN YOU COMMIT TO MAKING LIFESTYLE CHANGES?

If you are ready to change unhealthy behaviors for positive lifestyle habits, including dietary choices and physical activity levels, with the support of a dedicated team of experts, you may find yourself very fit and ready for weight loss surgery.

Reaching out to qualified professionals can help you better understand why you should avoid consuming junk food, excessive soft drinks, processed foods, and leading a sedentary lifestyle. Furthermore, they can guide you through nutrition, exercise and menu planning, providing practical strategies that can assist you in achieving your weight loss goals.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, determining eligibility for weight loss surgery is a multifaceted process that involves various factors such as body mass index (BMI), the presence of weight-related conditions, and a commitment to lifestyle changes. If you have been contemplating whether you qualify for weight loss surgery, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional. Seeking guidance from a qualified medical team will not only provide personalized insights into your eligibility but also offer support and information essential for making informed decisions about your weight loss journey. Remember, each individual’s situation is unique, and a comprehensive evaluation by healthcare experts will help tailor an approach that aligns with your specific needs and health goals.

WAIST TRAINER BEFORE AND AFTER: WHAT RESULTS YOU GET

Getting the waist you want is often a challenge. Especially for those who try to stay in shape but cannot get the perfect figure. Popular measures include focusing on meals to reduce food intake as well as exercising to burn energy. In recent years, people often use a new method: waist trainer. Many people trust using waist trainers for weight loss purposes. These products are designed to compress the abdominal area, promoting the appearance of a slimmer waist. Proponents claim that wearing a waist trainer during exercise can increase thermogenic activity, leading to increased calorie burn and reduced fat around the abdomen. But is this just a rumor, or is there actual truth behind this? Are there any before and after results that can show you whether waist trainers work or not? That’s exactly what I’m going to address in this article. Read on.

WHAT IS A WAIST TRAINER?

Waist trainers are tight-fitting garments designed to be worn around the waist to reduce its circumference and create an hourglass figure. They are often made of latex or other materials that are flexible and provide compression. The primary goal of waist trainers is to give the appearance of a smaller waist by cinching the midsection.

HOW DOES WAIST TRAINER WORK?

Waist trainers work by compressing the midsection, creating a temporary hourglass figure and shifting internal organs. This may lead to slight waist size reduction, but it’s primarily due to water weight loss and improved posture.

For optimal results, it is advisable to wear the waist trainer regularly for at least 8-10 hours. This sums up the overall effectiveness of waist training in achieving one’s slimming goals.

IS WAIST TRAINING GOOD FOR YOUR BODY?

While waist training offers a temporary slimmer look, potential risks outweigh the benefits.. Waist trainers may slim the waistline by 2-3 inches in a few weeks. Additionally, they contribute to improved posture, increased motivation for fitness, better food portion control, and the coveted hourglass figure. 

However, long-term use can cause pain, breathing difficulties, digestive problems, and skin irritation. The effectiveness and safety of waist trainers remain questionable, so consultation with a doctor is crucial before using one

HOW TO WEAR WAIST TRAINER

Wearing a waist trainer correctly is important to ensure comfort and minimize potential health risks. Here’s a general guide on how to wear a waist trainer:

Choose the Right Size

Select a waist trainer that fits snugly but is not too tight. It should provide compression without causing discomfort or difficulty in breathing. Additionally, ensure that the waist trainer is made of breathable and flexible materials to enhance comfort. Regularly assess the fit to accommodate any changes in your body shape and avoid prolonged use to prevent potential health issues. 

Start Gradually

Begin by wearing the waist trainer for short periods, such as 1-2 hours a day, and gradually increase the duration as your body adjusts.

As your body becomes accustomed to the waist trainer, consider extending the wear time gradually. However, pay attention to any signs of discomfort or restricted movement, and avoid wearing it for extended periods if you experience any adverse effects.

Positioning

To wear the waist trainer, start by putting it on with the hooks or closures in the front. Fasten it from the bottom to the top to make sure it’s secure. Make sure it sits evenly on your body. Check that the hooks align in the front for easy fastening, and starting from the bottom and working your way up helps get a good fit. Adjust it as needed to keep the pressure even and prevent any discomfort.

Posture

Maintain good posture while wearing the waist trainer. It can provide support for your back and core, but slouching may lead to discomfort. When wearing the waist trainer, remember to stand or sit up straight to get the most benefit. Maintaining good posture can help the waist trainer provide support for your back and core muscles. Slouching may cause discomfort and could affect the effectiveness of the waist trainer.

Avoid Tight Lacing

Resist the temptation to over tighten the waist trainer, as too much compression may lead to health issues and might not provide additional benefits. Keep it snug but comfortable for the best results.

Breathing

Make sure you can breathe normally while wearing the waist trainer. If you experience difficulty breathing or feel uncomfortable, relax and rest to feel better. Trying to wear a waist trainer when you have difficulty breathing may lead to serious consequences

Exercise Caution

When deciding to wear a waist trainer during workouts, exercise caution, as intense compression during vigorous exercise may impede your ability to breathe properly and limit your movement, leading to discomfort and potential health issues. Strike a balance between achieving the desired results and ensuring your safety and well-being during physical activities. 

Listen to Your Body

Make sure to drink enough water, especially if you wear the waist trainer for a long time. Dehydration can make any discomfort worse. Pay attention to how your body feels, and if you have pain, numbness, or problems, stop using the waist trainer and see a healthcare professional.

WAIST TRAINING BEFORE AND AFTER RESULTS

Marry B, a singer, wanted to highlight her hourglass curves and found that wearing a waist trainer provided instant slimming and assisted with portion control during meals. In her interview, she shares her remarkable results, including a surprising 4-inch reduction in her waist. This picture shows her belly after 2, 4, 6, and 8 weeks of use.

Larry C, works as a full-time nanny and faces challenges with weight loss and exercise. However, everything turned around when she gave her first waist trainer a try. “I began noticing results within just 5-8 weeks. My waist started shrinking, and I saw improvements in my back posture. I also observed less sagging in my lower stomach.”

Jennifer, a Paris model, always aims to look her best, whether she’s in front of the camera or not. Her key to maintaining a fantastic figure? Waist training! She shares, “I’ve received numerous compliments—people often mention my perfect curves and how well-proportioned I am.”

ARE THERE ANY SIDE EFFECTS OF USING WAIST TRAINERS?

Yes. In the short term, waist trainers can cause discomfort, restrict breathing, and lead to skin irritation. The tight compression may compress the organs, potentially causing digestive issues and acid reflux. Wearing a waist trainer during meals might also contribute to overeating, as the compression could give a false sensation of fullness. Additionally, some individuals may experience bruising or chafing on the skin due to prolonged contact with the garment.

Long-term use of waist trainers may lead to more serious health concerns. Continuous pressure on the midsection can weaken core muscles, leading to dependence on the garment for support and potentially causing musculoskeletal issues. There’s also a risk of reduced lung capacity and impaired breathing over time. Internal organ compression may impact their function and contribute to discomfort. It’s crucial to note that claims of permanent waist reduction through waist training are generally unfounded, and any apparent waist slimming is typically temporary and disappears when the garment is removed.

Before using waist trainers or similar garments, it’s advisable to consult with healthcare professionals to assess potential risks and benefits, especially for individuals with underlying health conditions. A balanced approach to health, including regular exercise and a nutritious diet, is crucial for achieving sustainable and long-term well-being.

WHO SHOULD AVOID WAIST TRAINER?

Pregnant Women

Pregnant individuals should avoid waist trainers, especially during the later stages of pregnancy. The compression can potentially affect the positioning of the fetus and may restrict proper blood flow to both the mother and the developing baby.

People with Certain Health Conditions

Individuals with conditions such as heart problems, respiratory issues, or gastrointestinal disorders should consult with healthcare professionals before using waist trainers. The compression can exacerbate these conditions and lead to adverse health effects.

Individuals Recovering from Surgery

Those recovering from abdominal surgery or any surgical procedure in the midsection should avoid waist trainers, as the compression may interfere with the healing process and cause discomfort.

Young Individuals

Teenagers and younger individuals who are still growing should avoid waist trainers. Restricting natural growth may lead to musculoskeletal issues and interfere with proper physical development.

Individuals with sensitivities or respiratory issues

Individuals with sensitivity or respiratory issues should exercise caution when considering waist trainers. Those with delicate skin or allergies to the materials used in these garments may encounter skin irritation, redness, or allergic reactions. Additionally, individuals with respiratory conditions, like asthma, may face difficulties breathing comfortably while wearing a waist trainer.

FAQ

1. How long does it take to see results from waist trainers?

Consistency is crucial for achieving results. Significant changes typically become noticeable after one month of regular use. Consider taking regular pictures of your figure to track and observe the results over time.

2. What happens when you stop wearing your waist trainer?

The product shapes your body into a specific form, often reducing water weight around your midsection. However, without the continuous support of a waist trainer, your waist returns to its usual shape and size.

3. Do waist trainers push fat to hips?

No, not exactly. In technical terms, waist training does not increase the size of your hips.

4. How many hours can I wear a waist trainer?

While experts recommend up to 8 hours of waist trainer wear per day, it’s crucial to listen to your body and take breaks every 2-3 hours. Start slow with 1-2 hours and gradually increase as your comfort level allows.

5. Is it OK to sleep with a waist trainer on?

No. Getting adequate sleep is essential for the body’s relaxation, but wearing a waist trainer during sleep can hinder proper breathing and interfere with the stomach’s normal functioning.

CONCLUSION

In simple words, using waist trainers might make your tummy look smaller for a short time, but it’s important to be careful. They can cause problems like making it hard to breathe, issues with digestion, and troubles with muscles. It’s best to talk to a doctor before using them, especially if you have health issues. Remember, it’s better to focus on eating healthy and exercising regularly for long-lasting health. Waist trainers are just one thing to consider, and don’t forget  to think about your overall health and wellness.