Weight loss surgery is an excellent tool for those who have suffered from long-term obesity, helping put them on track toward a healthier lifestyle.

Learn more about bariatric surgery at UPMC.

In addition to weight loss itself, bariatric surgery can help treat a number of obesity-related health conditions — and improve your overall quality of life. Learn more about the benefits of bariatric surgery in addition to shedding pounds.

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How Bariatric Surgery Transforms Your Health

Several different types of bariatric surgery are available to patients, including gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, and gastric banding. The exact approach you undergo will depend on your medical history and unique health needs, but each procedure is designed to promote long-term weight loss.

The success of your bariatric surgery requires commitment and several significant lifestyle changes. You’ll need to watch portion sizes, eat healthful foods, and take up an exercise regimen. Working alongside your bariatric care team, you may experience the following health benefits following your bariatric surgery.

Treatment of Diabetes

Research suggests that people with type 2 diabetes who undergo bariatric surgery may experience long-term remission of the disease. If you have type 2 diabetes and maintain weight loss following bariatric surgery, you could modify or eliminate your diabetes medication.

RELATED: Can Bariatric Surgery Help Treat Type 2 Diabetes?

A Healthier Heart

Losing weight can help you reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke by significantly lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

Minimizing Joint and Low Back Pain

When you shed pounds, you take the pressure off of the weight-bearing joints in your hips, knees and low back, potentially allowing you to cut down or eliminate the need for pain-relieving medication.

Better Sleep

If you suffer from obesity-related sleep apnea, losing weight through bariatric surgery could help improve the condition and eliminate your need for treatment, including the CPAP machine.

Improved Mood

People who lose weight may experience improvements in depression, body image, and social isolation— all measures of mental and emotional health.

Other Health Benefits from Bariatric Surgery

Bariatric surgery that leads to weight loss can also improve a variety of other health concerns, including metabolic syndrome, infertility, gallbladder disease, pregnancy complications, fatty liver disease, urinary incontinence, nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, and more.

If you’re struggling with obesity, consult the experts in bariatric surgery at UPMC. Find out how bariatric surgery can help you lead a healthier lifestyle.

About UPMC Bariatric Services

UPMC Bariatric Services is here to help if you’re struggling with obesity and want to lose weight. We offer both surgical and nonsurgical weight loss plans and can help you find the right path for a weight-loss journey. We will work with you to discuss your needs and develop and individualized treatment plan. We meet the highest level of national accreditation for bariatric surgery centers, and our team provides complete care. We offer our services at UPMC locations throughout Pennsylvania and New York. Visit our website to find a provider near you.