Obesity and your child:
Obesity impacts children in a variety of ways. First and foremost, a child’s health is impacted as they have now opened themselves up to a wide variety of health issues – issues that most of us didn’t experience until middle-age. In addition to health implications, there’s also one other area that children face, which can be very serious – weight bias and bullying. For some adolescents suffering from obesity, the solution is beyond the scope of diet and exercise.
Surgery For Obesity in Adolescents
Current data shows that bariatric surgery for adolescents is as safe and effective as bariatric surgery for adults.
When an adolescent is first examined, you can expect a thorough evaluation detailing the adolescents food intake, physical activity level, blood work and more. Once you, your child and our bariatric team have gathered this information, we can then begin to discuss treatment options.
The most common procedures performed is the gastric sleeve.
Changes
You can expect his/her weight to be in a healthy range.
Sand controls
WEIGHT
You can expect his/her weight to be in a healthy range
Can be reduced.
DEPRESSION
Teens who undergo weight loss surgery improve self-esteem and emotional wellbeing.
Improved Self-esteem
TYPE 2 DIABETES
Adolescents with diabetes are at increased risk of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and liver disease.
Can be reduced or eliminated.
CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE
Studies suggest that childhood obesity can cause adult heart disease.
Is prevented.
SLEEP APNEA
22% of obese adolescents have it; It is characterized by abnormal breathing pauses while asleep. It causes fatigue, moodiness and difficulty concentrating and completing tasks.
Can be reduced or eliminated.
FATTY LIVER DISEASE
38% of obese adolescents have it.
Can be reduced or eliminated.
Risks
All surgical procedures have risks. Adolescents have the same risk as adults. Undergoing bariatric procedure at an early age decreases the risk of long-term complications of obesity.
Life Changes
Follow-up visits (first year free) are important because teenagers are growing and require nutrition monitoring.
Surgery Obesity in Adolescents
HIGHLIGHTS
A multidisciplinary support team increases chances of long-term success.
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Surgeon (specialist in bariatric surgery and experienced in adolescent procedures)
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Doctor specialized in bariatric nutrition.
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Psychiatrist (with experience in eating disorders and obesity); our psychologist considers the cognitive, social and emotional development of your child to ensure success in dealing with changes and necessary sacrifices.
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Fitness trainer.
Bariatric surgery is a great tool to reach a healthy weight and make the necessary lifestyle changes to keep it.
Dr. Rumbaut has extensive experience helping adolescent patients reach their goals.