Is Gastric Bypass Surgery Worth the Costs and Medical Risks?
Gastric bypass surgery has been gaining popularity in the amount of patients seeking this alternative for weight loss. Since obesity is at an all time high in the United States, consumers are seeking any option available to them, even if its surgery. There are three different types of bariatric procedures performed. The first one is call Lap-Band surgery. At the top part of the stomach, a modifiable silicone ring is attached creating a 1-2 ounce pouch. This small pouch generates the feeling of fullness in the stomach and reasonably restricts your food intake. This is the only surgery that is adjustable. This procedure is almost never covered by insurance companies and the average cost is about $15,000-$20,000. The surgery takes about one hour to complete with a day stay in the hospital and one week off of work. Every bariatric patient must adhere to a diet of 800 calories per day for the first 18-36 months and you are not allowed to drink with your meals. This particular procedure is b