Nutrition Issues After Bariatric Surgery for Weight Loss

Abstract

Recently, we have started seeing adult diseases such as Type II Diabetes mellitus and gall bladder disease in adolescents, and even children [1]. Obesity is the main culprit. It is no secret that obesity has become a major problem in the United States affecting health care, lifestyle, and the economy. With the rise of obesity, we have witnessed a rise in bariatric surgery as the most effective way to manage morbid obesity. On average, it takes a person a year to 18 months to lose 60–80% of their excess weight after a bariatric procedure. The pattern of weight loss varies in individuals and rebound weight gain may occur in about 20% of them [2]. During the weight loss phase, there is an improvement in the medical profile of the patient ranging from a decrease in hypertension to increased mobility, along with resolution or improvement in other comorbidities [3]. It is very important for the bariatric surgeon, as well as the plastic surgeon, to understand the nutritional issues that can arise after the different types of bariatric surgery in order to better manage the patient’s care. After bariatric surgery, the myriad of nutritional deficiencies that can develop may present serious, and sometimes, life threatening problems to a patient who had just begun to enjoy life after being morbidly obese. The nutritional issues are especially important for patients seeking plastic surgery after weight loss because optimal results can only be obtained when the nutritional status of the weight loss patient has been optimized. The following will be an overview of the types of bariatric surgery for weight loss and possible nutrition issues that can occur with each one. Suggestions for improvement of the postbariatric patient diet, as well as recommendations for both patients and surgeons, will be discussed.