Bariatric Surgery for Teenage Obesity. Yay or Nay?

Andrew is 19 years old. Unlike his peers, he weighed 119 kg at 1.83 m. He also suffered from type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol due to his unhealthy weight. He tried to reduce weight by dieting and exercising, but to no avail, until his doctors decided to perform a procedure on him – bariatric surgery.

When is bariatric surgery recommended?

Bariatric surgery can be beneficial for adolescents with extreme obesity which are characterised by a body mass index (BMI) of over 40. At the same time, these adolescents may also suffer from weight-related complications, just like Andrew.

Usually, the doctor initiates a weight loss plan for at least six months. The plan would revolve around diet and exercise. However, the plan only works in 10 % of the obese teenagers. Hence, bariatric surgery would be recommended if these unsuccessful individuals fulfil the following selection criteria.

What are the criteria for bariatric surgery?

The criteria for patients under 18 are as follows:

1. The patient must have a BMI above 40 and with weight-related complications. Alternatively, patients that have a BMI of at least 50 without complications qualifies as well.
2. The surgery must be part of an adolescent bariatric specialty programme. Every patient will require extensive assessments by a multi-professional team. The adolescent will also be mandated to participate in a medical weight management programme for at least six months.
3. Protocols must be in place to ensure good outcomes in weight loss after surgery. These protocols also minimise complications and problems such as nutritional deficiencies, growth and puberty, adherence issues, weight gain and disordered eating behaviour.
4. Patients must be fully committed in preparing themselves for the surgery. Besides that, patients need to display their willingness and ability to make big changes in their eating and exercise habits prior to the surgery.
5. Parents of these adolescents must show their support in making lifestyle and diet changes as a family to ensure continued success of the weight loss journey.

What are the positive outcomes of bariatric surgery?

Patients generally lose 50 to 60 % of their excess weight within a year of surgery. Losing weight also reverses weight-related diseases, such as diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol. The surgery works well for those who are emotionally well-adjusted and are motivated enough to understand and comply with the treatment plan.

Today, Andrew has lost 16kg after the procedure. He no longer need to visit his doctors as frequently. He also does not need medications for the meantime as his bloodwork appears normal. Becoming closer to achieving his optimal weight has made him motivated to lead a healthier and more fulfilling life.

This article was contributed by PanAsia Surgery Group. PanAsia Surgery Group is a multi-specialty surgery group practice that provides personalised and comprehensive care for emergency and elective surgeries. You can find and book an appointment with any of PanAsia Surgery Group’s consultants with GetDoc at these clinics: 

• The PanAsia Surgery Group (Novena)
• The PanAsia Surgery Group (Mt Elizabeth Orchard) 
• The PanAsia Surgery Group (Parkway East Medical Centre)

Tags

• bariatric surgery
• BMI
• obese teenager
• Obesity