Popular Medications for Diabetes and Weight Loss May Cause Problems with Elective Surgeries or Severe Gastroparesis


Plano, TX – The American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) recently issued a warning that patients taking popular medications for diabetes and weight loss should stop taking them a week before elective surgery. This is due to the risk that these medications can increase the chance of regurgitating food during an operation, even if they have fasted as directed. Vomiting under anesthesia can cause food and stomach acid to get into the lungs, which can lead to pneumonia and other problems after surgery.

The medications in question are those used to treat type 2 diabetes such as liraglutide (Victoza), exenatide (Byetta) and semaglutide (Ozempic), as well as those used for weight loss such as phentermine/topiramate (Qsymia) and lorcaserin (Belviq). These drugs are known to slow down gastric emptying, which means that food remains in the stomach longer than normal. This can lead to severe gastroparesis, a condition where the stomach takes too long to empty its contents into the small intestine. As a result, patients may experience nausea, vomiting, bloating, constipation, or abdominal pain after eating.

Dr. Nick Nicholson with the Nicholson Clinic for Weight Loss Surgery in Plano Texas commented on the importance of stopping these medications prior to elective surgery: “It is essential that patients stop taking these medications at least one week before surgery so that they can minimize any potential risks associated with gastroparesis or aspiration during the operation itself.”

For those looking for long-term solutions to obesity or diabetes management, Dr. Nicholson recommends considering weight loss surgery such as sleeve gastrectomy, gastric bypass, or duodenal switch procedures. “These surgeries are safe and effective ways to help patients achieve their desired weight loss goals while also reducing their risk of diabetes, and their risk of diabetes related complications, such as heart disease, stroke or even early death.”

These weight loss surgery options help reduce hunger while restricting how much food you eat by reducing your stomach size or rerouting your digestive system so some calories aren’t absorbed by your body—all of which have been shown to be safe and effective in helping people achieve significant weight loss with minimal side effects. At Nicholson Clinic, we are dedicated to helping people reach their weight loss objectives while improving their overall health with proven bariatric procedures tailored specifically to each patient’s needs.

Dr. Nicholson adds: “Bariatric surgery is an excellent option for those looking for long-term weight loss solutions as it helps people lose more than just excess fat – it also entails a change to their lifestyle habits, so they don’t regain the weight they lost over time.”

If you are considering elective surgery and are currently taking any medication related to diabetes or weight loss, it is important that you discuss this with your doctor before proceeding with any procedure. For more information about bariatric surgery options available at the Nicholson Clinic in Plano Texas visit www.nicholsonclinic.com or call 972-494-3100 today!

About Nicholson Clinic
One of the most experienced weight loss surgeons in the country – Dr. Nick Nicholson – along with a full staff of surgeons, physician assistants, and other experienced clinicians, help patients reverse obesity with Sleeve Gastrectomy, Gastric Bypass, Duodenal Switch, Gastric Balloon, LAP-BAND removal and Revisions.

The gastric sleeve or sleeve gastrectomy surgery is a popular weight loss procedure that removes a large portion of the stomach, reducing its capacity and helping patients to feel fuller faster. In addition, the procedure prompts hormonal changes that assist with weight loss. While it is generally successful in helping people reach their desired weight, some patients may require a revisional procedure at some point. A recent study published by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) found that the most common reason for gastric sleeve revision is failure to achieve desired weight loss results and the most frequent revisional procedure was gastric bypass.

It’s important for anyone considering gastric sleeve to be aware of the possibility of needing a revisional procedure if weight regain occurs and the patient is unable to effectively lose the weight with their existing sleeve and a pouch reset diet, or if they have a complication of some sort. The NIH study concluded that revisional surgery was favorable for weight reduction and comorbidity resolution, so it’s worth considering if you have had trouble losing weight after a gastric sleeve procedure or if you have other health issues related to your weight. You may have several questions about the revision procedure and what it entails. Here’s what you need to know about gastric sleeve revisions:

What is Gastric Sleeve Revision Surgery? 

Gastric sleeve revision surgery is a type of bariatric surgery that involves making changes to an existing gastric sleeve procedure to improve outcomes. It can involve either adding or removing tissue from the stomach, altering the size of an existing pouch, or even performing another type of bariatric procedure such as gastric bypass or duodenal switch. The goal of this type of surgery is to help patients achieve better results with their weight loss efforts and improve their overall health and wellbeing.

Who Is Eligible for Gastric Sleeve Revision Surgery? 
To be eligible for a gastric sleeve revision, you must meet certain criteria including being at least 18 years old, having failed to achieve significant weight loss with your initial gastric sleeve procedure, having no medical conditions that would make it unsafe for you to undergo another bariatric surgery, and being willing and able to follow dietary restrictions after your surgery. Your doctor will also evaluate your overall health before recommending a revisional procedure so they can ensure it’s safe for you.

What Are the Benefits of Gastric Sleeve Revision Surgery? 

The primary benefit of undergoing a gastric sleeve revision is improved weight loss outcomes compared with your initial procedure. Other potential benefits include improved metabolic health such as lower cholesterol levels and better blood sugar control; reduced risk of developing certain diseases such as diabetes; reduced risk of developing sleep apnea; improved quality of life; improved physical mobility; improved mental health; and decreased risk of obesity-related death.

What Are Some Possible Complications Associated with Gastric Sleeve Revisions? 
Revisional surgeries are typically more complex than original surgeries; however, when performed by experienced professionals, they can be done safely with minimal risks or complications. Possible complications include bleeding, infection, blood clots in the legs or lungs, adverse reactions to anesthesia or medications used during the operation and hernia formation at incision sites. Problems with digestion due to altered anatomy in the stomach area due to scarring from previous surgeries or trauma from instruments used during prior procedures may also occur. It’s important to discuss all potential risks with your doctor prior to deciding on undergoing any type of bariatric surgery so that you can make an informed decision about whether it’s right for you.

Where Can I Get Gastric Sleeve Revision Surgery? 
The Nicholson Clinic offers comprehensive care when it comes to bariatric surgeries including revisions for those who have previously undergone a gastric sleeve operation but have not achieved optimal results. The Nicholson Clinic specializes in minimally invasive techniques which reduce recovery time while still providing excellent results. Patients receive individualized care plans tailored specifically for their needs which includes preoperative counseling, nutrition guidance, postoperative support, psychological support, lifestyle modification advice, online support groups, exercise programs, and access to our medical staff and support team as needed. With experienced surgeons on staff who specialize in performing high quality bariatric surgeries along with comprehensive postoperative care plans tailored specifically for each patient’s needs, the Nicholson Clinic provides excellent care when considering any type of bariatric surgery including revisions.

We understand how overwhelming this process can be and we want our patients to feel comfortable knowing that they are in good hands every step of the way. If you are considering a gastric sleeve revision or have questions about any other type of bariatric surgery, please contact us today for more information or to schedule an appointment with one of our experienced surgeons. We look forward to helping you achieve your health goals safely and effectively!

About Author
One of the most experienced weight loss surgeons in the country – Dr. Nick Nicholson – along with a full staff of surgeons, physician assistants, and other experienced clinicians, help patients reverse obesity with Sleeve Gastrectomy, Gastric Bypass, Duodenal Switch, Gastric Balloon, and revisions.

The Nicholson Clinic for Weight Loss Surgery is proud to share a new study conducted by the Cleveland Clinic which found that bariatric surgery may reduce the risk of major cardiovascular complications in patients with obesity and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). The findings suggest that bariatric surgery is a safe and effective tool to help reduce the risk of cardiovascular events in these patients.

Obesity is a major health issue that can lead to a range of health problems, including sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is a condition where breathing stops and starts during sleep due to the narrowing of the airway. It can lead to high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and more. According to the American Heart Association (AHA), people with obesity are at higher risk for developing sleep apnea with almost 75% of those with sleep apnea having obesity as an underlying cause. It has been found to be a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease, including heart attack, heart failure and cardiac arrhythmias.

The study conducted a retrospective single-center analysis of 13,657 patients seen at Cleveland Clinic from 2004 to 2018 who had a BMI of 35 kg/m2 to 70 kg/m2 and moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea, defined as apnea-hypopnea index of 15 or more events per hour as determined by a sleep study. Among the cohort, 970 had bariatric surgery and the rest did not. Baseline covariates were balanced between the surgery group and the control group after overlap weighting. The primary outcome was extended major adverse CV events (MACE), defined as coronary artery events, cerebrovascular events, HF, atrial fibrillation, and mortality. Patients were followed through September 2022.

The results showed that bariatric surgery was associated with significantly lower MACE (hazard ratio 0.63; 95% CI 0.51–0.78; P < .001) compared with non-surgical care among patients with moderate to severe OSA and obesity after adjustment for baseline characteristics including age, sex, BMI category , hypertension , diabetes mellitus , smoking status, dyslipidemia, prior myocardial infarction or stroke, prior coronary artery bypass grafting or percutaneous coronary intervention, left ventricular ejection fraction <50%, atrial fibrillation/flutter or other arrhythmia.
“These findings demonstrate the need to consider sleep apnea as another health condition when counseling patients with obesity.” said Dr Nick Nicholson from the Nicholson Clinic for Weight Loss Surgery located in Dallas Texas. “Weight loss surgery is another tool available that is safe and effective and can help patients with sleep apnea live longer and reduce their risk of cardiovascular events. Additionally, when patients can lose large amounts of weight and keep it off, many of their health conditions will improve, including sleep apnea.”

This research adds further evidence that bariatric surgery can be an effective treatment option for those suffering from OSA who are also struggling with obesity-related health conditions such as cardiovascular disease. While CPAP therapy has proven effective in treating OSA symptoms it does not address underlying issues related to weight gain such as metabolic syndrome which can lead to long term health complications if left untreated or unmanaged effectively over time. Bariatric surgery has been shown time again to be an effective treatment option for individuals dealing with morbid obesity related conditions such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol levels, heart disease, stroke, fatty liver disease, and more.

Dr. Nicholson concluded: “We are excited about this new research indicating that bariatric surgery reduces risk for major cardiovascular complications in patients with obesity and sleep apnea. We look forward to continuing our work helping individuals achieve their health goals through evidence-based treatments like bariatric surgery procedures.”

About Nicholson Clinic
One of the most experienced weight loss surgeons in the country – Dr. Nick Nicholson – along with a full staff of surgeons, physician assistants, and other experienced clinicians, help patients reverse obesity with Sleeve Gastrectomy, Gastric Bypass, Duodenal Switch, Gastric Balloon, LAP-BAND removal and Revisions.

Obesity is a growing health concern in many countries around the world. It is estimated that more than one third of adults in the United States are obese, and this number is increasing every year. The causes of obesity are complex and varied, but recent research has identified several key factors that can contribute to the development of this condition. In this article, we will look at some of the latest research into the causes of obesity and discuss how understanding these causes can help us better prevent and manage the condition.

One of the main causes of obesity identified by recent research is an imbalance between energy intake and energy expenditure. In other words, if individuals consume more calories than they burn off through physical activity, they are likely to gain weight over time. This imbalance can be caused by a variety of factors such as overeating or eating too much unhealthy food, leading a sedentary lifestyle with little physical activity, or consuming large amounts of sugary drinks or high-calorie snacks.

Another key cause identified by recent research is genetics. Studies have shown that certain genetic variants can increase an individual’s risk for obesity by affecting their metabolism or making them more likely to overeat or consume high-calorie foods. Additionally, lifestyle habits such as smoking and drinking alcohol can also contribute to weight gain over time due to their effects on metabolism and appetite control.

In addition to these two main causes, there are several other factors that have been linked to obesity in recent studies. These include certain medical conditions such as hypothyroidism or Cushing’s syndrome which can disrupt normal body processes related to weight management; medications such as steroids which may lead to increased appetite; certain psychological conditions such as depression which can lead to overeating; and environmental factors such as poverty which may limit access to healthy foods or make it difficult for individuals to engage in regular physical activity.

Understanding the causes of obesity is important for developing effective strategies for prevention and management. For instance, individuals who are at risk due to genetics may need more intensive interventions than those who are simply overweight due to lifestyle habits alone.

At Nicholson Clinic we understand how complex the causes of obesity can be and strive to provide our patients with comprehensive care tailored specifically toward their individual needs and circumstances. We offer a range of services that go along with your bariatric procedure, including nutrition counseling, fitness coaching, psychological support services, and more. Our team works together with each patient individually in order create a personalized plan that will best meet their goals while also addressing any underlying issues that may be contributing towards their weight gain or preventing them from achieving success with traditional dieting methods alone.

If you’re struggling with your weight or would like more information about our services here at Nicholson Clinic, please don’t hesitate to reach out! Our knowledgeable staff would be happy to answer any questions you might have about our programs or provide advice on how best manage your condition based on your individual needs and circumstances so you can get back on track towards living your healthiest life possible!

About Author
One of the most experienced weight loss surgeons in the country – Dr. Nick Nicholson – along with a full staff of surgeons, physician assistants, and other experienced clinicians, help patients reverse obesity with Sleeve Gastrectomy, Gastric Bypass, Duodenal Switch, Gastric Balloon, and revisions.

Plano, Texas – The Nicholson Clinic is proud to announce that all three of its surgeons have been certified by the American Board of Surgery (ABS) with the Focused Practice Designation (FPD) in Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (MBS). This certification is a testament to the expertise and dedication of the Nicholson Clinic’s surgeons, as only a small percentage of bariatric surgeons have this designation. Out of thousands of bariatric surgeons in the US, only 220 currently have this designation.

The ABS Focused Practice Designation is an important credential that recognizes bariatric surgeons who demonstrate exceptional proficiency in metabolic and bariatric surgery. The designation is awarded to surgeons who have met rigorous criteria, including completing at least 50 metabolic and bariatric surgery cases in the past two years, passing an oral examination, and completing continuing medical education requirements.

“We are incredibly proud to have all three of our surgeons receive this prestigious certification,” said Dr. Nicholson, founder of the Nicholson Clinic. “Our patients can rest assured that they are receiving care from some of the most experienced and knowledgeable bariatric surgeons in the United States. We are committed to providing our patients with the highest quality care possible, and this certification helps ensure that we continue to meet those standards.”

The Nicholson Clinic specializes in providing comprehensive weight loss solutions tailored to each individual patient’s needs. The clinic offers a variety of procedures including sleeve gastrectomy surgery, gastric bypass surgery, duodenal switch, and revisions. Plus, Nicholson Clinic partners with experts to offer nutrition counseling, exercise instruction, psychological support, patient support groups, and more. The clinic has been helping individuals achieve their weight loss goals for over 25 years.

In addition to their extensive experience performing metabolic and bariatric surgeries, all three Nicholson Clinic surgeons are also fellows of the American College of Surgeons (ACS) and members of the American Society for Metabolic & Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS) and the Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons (SAGES). This ensures that each surgeon maintains high standards for safety and quality care throughout their practice.

For more information about the Nicholson Clinic or any of its services please visit https://www.nicholsonclinic.com. Additional information on their surgeons’ latest credentials by the American Board of Surgery (ABS) with the Focused Practice Designation (FPD) in Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (MBS) can also be found on ABSurgery.org.

About Nicholson Clinic
One of the most experienced weight loss surgeons in the country – Dr. Nick Nicholson – along with a full staff of surgeons, physician assistants, and other experienced clinicians, help patients reverse obesity with Sleeve Gastrectomy, Gastric Bypass, Duodenal Switch, Gastric Balloon, LAP-BAND removal and Revisions.

Dallas, TX – At Nicholson Clinic for Weight Loss Surgery, Dr. Nick Nicholson and his team of medical professionals are offering a cost-effective solution for those suffering from LAP-BAND® complications. The clinic is now offering affordable Lap Band Removal, saving patients thousands of dollars.

The Nicholson Clinic has been providing bariatric care to patients since its founding, over 20 years ago. Dr. Nick Nicholson, founder, and medical director of the clinic has helped thousands of patients make positive changes in their health and quality of life through his expertise in bariatric surgery.

The LAP-BAND® removal procedure is a minimally invasive operation that removes the LAP-BAND® from the patient’s stomach so it can return to its normal pre-operative state. The cost for this procedure at the Nicholson Clinic is as low as $2,500 compared to other states where it can cost up to $20,000 or more. This fee includes all pre- and post-operative office visits with the Nicholson Clinic medical team, the surgical fee for Nicholson Clinic doctors, the hospital facility fee, surgical fee for anesthesiologist and pre-operative blood work and EKG. Post-operative blood work is not included in this price.

Patients may need LAP-BAND® removal for various reasons such as:

  • The patient has not achieved desired weight loss after several years.
  • The patient has experienced frequent vomiting or abdominal pain.
  • The patient has developed an intolerance or allergy to the material used in the band; or
  • The patient has experienced severe reflux or difficulty swallowing food.

“We understand that bariatric surgery can be expensive and that’s why we are offering LAP-BAND® removal at an affordable cost,” said Dr. Nick Nicholson with Nicholson Clinic for Weight Loss Surgery. He goes on to say, “Our goal is always to provide our patients with excellent care while minimizing their out-of-pocket expenses.”

The average cost of LAP-BAND® removal in the US is about $15,000, but depending on the severity of the case, it can cost as high as $20,000 – 30,000. At Nicholson Clinic, patients are saving thousands of dollars by coming to them for LAP-BAND® removal.

The Nicholson Clinic offers a variety of services including LAP-BAND® removal and LAP-BAND® revisions. Many patients are opting to remove their band and then add on another weight loss procedure that is more effective and long lasting at the same time, such as a gastric sleeve or duodenal switch. In a band revision, the Nicholson Clinic DOES NOT CHARGE for the band removal. Other bariatric surgeons charge for the band removal, but Nicholson Clinic never charges additional surgeon fees for a band removal when revising to a sleeve, bypass or duodenal switch at the same surgical session. Some hospitals may charge an additional fee for the band removal.

Nicholson Clinic for Weight Loss Surgery understands that making this decision isn’t easy, but it doesn’t have to be expensive either. With our affordable LAP-BAND® Removal option at Nicholson Clinic, you can save thousands of dollars while still receiving top notch care from our experienced medical team. Contact us today if you would like more information about our LAP-BAND® Removal services or any other bariatric surgery options available at our clinic.

About Nicholson Clinic
One of the most experienced weight loss surgeons in the country – Dr. Nick Nicholson – along with a full staff of surgeons, physician assistants, and other experienced clinicians, help patients reverse obesity with Sleeve Gastrectomy, Gastric Bypass, Duodenal Switch, Gastric Balloon, LAP-BAND removal and Revisions.

Weight loss surgery, also known as bariatric surgery, is becoming an increasingly popular option for treating diabetes and other obesity-related health conditions. Weight loss surgery can reverse type 2 diabetes, so you no longer need to take medication to stabilize blood sugar levels.

Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition caused by high blood sugar levels. It occurs when the body does not produce enough insulin or is unable to properly use the insulin it does produce. This can lead to several health issues including increased risk of heart attack and stroke, nerve damage, kidney damage, eye damage, and more. Weight gain is also a common symptom of type 2 diabetes due to insulin resistance and an increase in fat storage in the body.

For those with type 2 diabetes, weight loss can be beneficial in managing their condition. Losing just 5-10% of your body weight can help improve blood sugar control as well as reduce your risk for other associated health issues such as high cholesterol or high blood pressure. Weight loss surgery can be an effective way to achieve this goal.

The Nicholson Clinic for Weight Loss Surgery in Texas specializes in weight loss surgery and offers a variety of procedures designed to help patients lose weight and improve their overall health. The experienced team of doctors at the Nicholson Clinic have extensive experience with bariatric surgery and can provide personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s needs.

For many people, weight loss surgery can be a life-changing procedure that can help them take control of their diabetes. Studies have shown that losing even a small amount of excess body weight can significantly reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes or manage existing diabetes more effectively. Weight loss surgeries such as gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy and gastric banding all work by reducing the amount of food that can be consumed at one time or reducing the absorption of calories from food. This helps patients lose weight quickly while also controlling blood sugar levels more effectively.

In addition to helping with diabetes management, there are numerous other benefits associated with weight loss surgery. People who undergo bariatric procedures often experience improved energy levels, better sleep patterns, reduced joint pain, improved moods, and an overall improvement in quality of life. Weight loss surgeries also reduce the risk for other serious health conditions such as heart disease, stroke, and certain types of cancer.

At the Nicholson Clinic in Texas patients receive comprehensive care from start to finish including pre-op care and post-op support, and partner with nutrition and fitness specialists to help you stay on track with your goals for long-term success. The clinic also offers support groups where patients can share their experiences and get advice from others who have undergone similar procedures.

Weight loss surgery is not a magic bullet for diabetes, but it can be an effective tool for those who have not been able to control the disease through traditional methods. The Nicholson Clinic in Texas offers a variety of bariatric procedures designed to help patients lose weight and improve their overall health. With the help of the experienced team of doctors at the Nicholson Clinic, patients can take control of their diabetes and enjoy improved quality of life.

About Author
One of the most experienced weight loss surgeons in the country – Dr. Nick Nicholson – along with a full staff of surgeons, physician assistants, and other experienced clinicians, help patients reverse obesity with Sleeve Gastrectomy, Gastric Bypass, Duodenal Switch, Gastric Balloon, LAP-BAND removal and revisions.

Weight loss surgery is a major life decision that can have a positive impact on your health. But even after you’ve had the surgery, it’s important to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Eating the right foods is essential for maintaining your weight loss and keeping your body healthy. Here are some tips for eating healthy after weight loss surgery, as well as some foods to avoid.

First, it’s important to understand how food affects your body after weight loss surgery. Your stomach will be much smaller than before, so you won’t be able to eat as much in one sitting. You also may not be able to tolerate certain types of food, such as fried or fatty foods. It’s important to listen to your body and take small bites of food at a time so that you don’t overfill your stomach or cause discomfort.

When it comes to choosing the right foods after weight loss surgery, once you’ve completed your post-op diets phase 1 and 2 and you are ready to transition to a normal routine, there are some general guidelines you should follow:

  • Eat lean proteins like fish, chicken, turkey, beans and legumes
  • Choose whole grains over refined grains
  • Include plenty of fruits and vegetables in your diet
  • Limit sugary drinks like soda and juice
  • Avoid processed foods high in fat and sugar
  • Drink plenty of water throughout the day
  • Eat slowly and chew each bite thoroughly

There are certain foods that you should avoid after weight loss surgery. These include fried or fatty foods like French fries or fast-food burgers; sugary snacks like candy bars; processed meats such as hot dogs or bacon; high-fat dairy products like ice cream; alcohol; carbonated beverages; caffeine; artificial sweeteners; and large amounts of sugar or salt. Eating these types of food can cause discomfort due to their high fat content or because they can stretch out the stomach pouch created during the procedure. It’s best to avoid these types of food altogether if possible.

In addition to eating healthy, it is also important to create an exercise plan that fits into your lifestyle after weight loss surgery. Exercise helps burn calories while strengthening muscles which can help maintain your new body shape. Aim for 30 minutes of physical activity per day – this could include walking around the block, taking a yoga class at home, riding a bike around town or swimming laps at the pool – whatever works best for you! Also try incorporating strength training exercises into your routine two times per week to build muscle mass which will help boost metabolism and burn more calories overall throughout the day.

Finally, make sure that you get enough sleep each night as this is essential for maintaining good health overall as well as aiding in successful weight maintenance post-surgery. A lack of sleep has been linked with higher levels of hunger hormones in the body which can lead to overeating if left unchecked. Try going to bed at least seven hours each night if possible – this will help ensure that all systems are functioning properly so that you can stay on track with all aspects of maintaining successful post-surgery weight management goals.

Following these tips for eating healthy after weight loss surgery – combined with regular exercise and enough rest – will help ensure long-term success with maintaining your new healthy lifestyle habits. With dedication and commitment from yourself, and support from family/friends, achieving lasting results from weight loss surgery is possible!

About Author
One of the most experienced weight loss surgeons in the country – Dr. Nick Nicholson – along with a full staff of surgeons, physician assistants, and other experienced clinicians, help patients reverse obesity with Sleeve Gastrectomy, Gastric Bypass, Duodenal Switch, Gastric Balloon and Revisions.

Dallas, TX – Obesity is a growing problem in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), obesity affects four out of every 10 Americans. Unfortunately, this epidemic has caused an increase in medical costs and other expenses associated with obesity. To combat this growing problem, Dr. Nick Nicholson of Nicholson Clinic for Weight Loss Surgery provides insight into how we can address the financial impact of obesity.

“Obesity is a serious health concern that affects millions of Americans each year,” said Dr. Nick Nicholson. “It can lead to several health-related issues, such as diabetes, heart disease and stroke, which can significantly increase medical costs. In addition to health-related costs, obesity can also have a negative impact on an individual’s quality of life due to decreased mobility or social stigma associated with being overweight.”

Researchers assessed both the direct and indirect costs of obesity, including the healthcare costs of 28 obesity-related illnesses, lost economic productivity, and premature death. The report estimated that the economic impact of obesity could reach $4.32 trillion annually by 2035 if current trends continue, an increase from $1.96 trillion in 2020. This is equivalent to around 3% of global GDP — or as much as a year of economic growth — and the same impact that COVID-19 had in 2020. In the United States alone, this could mean an annual cost on its GDP reaching 4% by 2035, up from 3.5% in 2020. However, a separate study from the Milken Institute suggested that that cost may already be much greater, having reached 9.3% of annual GDP or $1.72 trillion in 2016. Researchers also estimate that individuals who are obese spend an average of $1,429 more per year on medical costs than those at a healthy weight. These costs can be even higher if an individual has additional health complications due to their weight such as diabetes or heart disease.

“Obesity is one of those issues that affects us all — not just those who struggle with their weight — but it’s often overlooked when discussing our nation’s health crisis,” said Dr. Nick Nicholson with Nicholson Clinic for Weight Loss Surgery in Dallas Texas. “The economic impact of this issue cannot be overstated: it takes a toll on healthcare systems around the world and can lead to lost productivity due to illness and premature death.”

Dr. Nicholson continued: “It’s important to remember that obesity is not only preventable but also treatable through lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise as well as medical interventions like weight loss surgery.” He added: “At Nicholson Clinic for Weight Loss surgery, we strive to provide comprehensive care for those struggling with their weight so they can lead healthier lives.”

The Nicholson Clinic for Weight Loss Surgery offers several options for individuals looking to take control of their health and reduce their risk for obesity-related diseases. Dr. Nicholson specializes in bariatric surgery procedures such as sleeve gastrectomy and gastric bypass which have proven effective at helping patients lose weight quickly and safely while reducing their risk for other diseases associated with obesity such as type 2 diabetes and hypertension. He also provides comprehensive pre-and post-operative care and partners with experts to offer nutritional counseling, bariatric exercise coaching and psychological support services designed to help patients make long-term lifestyle changes that will support successful weight loss outcomes after surgery.

Dr. Nicholson concluded “Obesity is becoming a major public health issue in our country and it’s costing us billions of dollars each year. We need to act now to address this problem before it gets any worse.”

For more information about how you can reduce your risk for obesity-related illnesses or learn more about how you can benefit from weight loss surgery contact Dr. Nick Nicholson at Nicholson Clinic for Weight Loss Surgery at https://www.nicholsonclinic.com/pages/contact-us.

About Nicholson Clinic
One of the most experienced weight loss surgeons in the country – Dr. Nick Nicholson – along with a full staff of surgeons, physician assistants, and other experienced clinicians, help patients reverse obesity with Sleeve Gastrectomy, Gastric Bypass, Duodenal Switch, LAP-BAND, Gastric Balloon and Revisions.

Bariatric surgery, also known as weight loss surgery, is used to help individuals lose weight and reduce the risk of obesity-related diseases. For those who have been unable to lose weight through diet and exercise alone, it is often the most effective solution to lose weight, keep it off long term and improve one’s health and quality of life.

For those considering bariatric surgery, it’s important to understand the benefits, as well as the risks, associated with bariatric surgery. Dr. Nick Nicholson of Nicholson Clinic for Weight Loss Surgery is a leading expert on bariatric surgery. He explains that bariatric surgery can be life-changing for many patients who struggle with obesity and its associated health risks. “It’s not just about losing weight; it’s about improving your overall health and quality of life,” he says. Dr. Nicholson has helped thousands of patients over the years achieve their goals through bariatric surgery.

There are several types of bariatric surgeries available today, including gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, duodenal switch, and gastric balloon procedures. Each procedure has its own benefits and risks, so it’s important to discuss your options with your doctor before deciding which one is right for you.

Weight loss surgery can provide several key benefits, such as:

  1. Long-term Weight Loss: Bariatric surgery can lead to significant and sustained weight loss in most patients. A patient who is 100 pounds overweight can expect to lose around 70 pounds at one year after gastric sleeve, and up to 80 pounds with gastric bypass.
  2. Improved Health: Bariatric surgery can help reduce or even eliminate many obesity-related health conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, joint pain, heart disease and stroke risk factors, fatty liver disease and more.
  3. Improved Quality of Life: Many patients report improved quality of life after bariatric surgery due to increased energy levels and improved self-esteem as they reach their desired weight goals and become more active in their daily lives.
  4. Reduced Risk of Mortality: Studies have found that individuals who undergo bariatric surgery may be at lower risk for death than those who do not receive the procedure or are unable to maintain successful long-term weight loss without it.
  5. Cost Savings: The cost savings associated with bariatric surgery can be substantial over time due to reduced medical expenses associated with obesity-related diseases such as diabetes or high blood pressure that could otherwise require ongoing medical care or medications.

Of course, it’s important to understand that there are risks associated with any surgical procedure – including bariatric surgery – so it’s vital to discuss these potential risks with your doctor before making any decisions about treatment options for your specific situation. However, weight loss surgery is considered a very safe treatment when performed by an experienced, credentialed weight loss surgeon. It’s as safe as gall bladder surgery, hip replacement and hysterectomy with a mortality rate of 0.2%, which is far lower than other elective surgeries performed today.

Dr. Nick Nicholson is a board-certified surgeon who specializes in minimally invasive laparoscopic procedures. Nicholson Clinic for Weight Loss Surgery provides personalized care in a safe environment designed specifically for obese individuals looking to make lifestyle changes through bariatric procedures like gastric sleeve or gastric bypass surgeries.

Ultimately, understanding the benefits associated with bariatric surgery is key when considering this option for yourself or a loved one struggling with obesity related health issues. With proper education you can make an informed decision about whether this type of treatment is right for you.

About Author
One of the most experienced weight loss surgeons in the country – Dr. Nick Nicholson – along with a full staff of surgeons, physician assistants, and other experienced clinicians, help patients reverse obesity with Sleeve Gastrectomy, Gastric Bypass, Duodenal Switch, Gastric Balloon and Revisions.