Before you dive into a weight-loss plan, take time to learn as much about it as you can. Just because a diet is popular or your friends are doing it doesn't mean it's right for you. Ask these questions first:

Weight loss surgery reduces the amount of food you can eat by reducing the size of your stomach or bypassing your stomach. There are several surgical procedures that can help you to lose weight and maintain weight loss. These include:

Given this wide variation, it’s best to research and talk to several surgeons and operative centers to find one you’re comfortable with — and one that fits your budget.

You can read about other patients’ experiences with weight regain after having gastric bypass surgery

Blood tests, ultrasound of your gallbladder, and other tests to make sure you are healthy enough to have surgery.

Patients who underwent two or three sclerotherapy sessions had much higher rates of weight regain stabilization than those who underwent a single session

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If you pay for the procedure without insurance, total costs will depend on how you pay. For example, your surgeon may offer a discount if you pay the full amount up front, and you can make the costs more affordable by applying for bariatric surgery financing.

The psychiatrist or psychologist may assess you to see if you are ready to manage the challenges of weight-loss surgery.

Weight loss surgery is a serious consideration, not a quick fix or an easy option. It is part of a lifelong weight management programme that makes it realistic to lose weight and maintain it afterwards.

One alternative to bypass surgery is Percutaneous Cardiac Intervention (also known as angioplasty), a non-surgical technique that uses catheters and small structures called stents to keep the arteries open.

However, as with most surgical procedures, there is the risk of side effects and complications. If you’re interested in gastric sleeve surgery, talk with your doctor about whether you qualify for this procedure and if it’s a safe option for you.

Bariatric surgery, also known as weight loss surgery, can be a safe and effective stomach bypass option for individuals who haven’t been able to lose weight through other methods.

Weighing less should also make it much easier for you to move around and do your everyday activities.