Is Weight Loss Surgery Right For Teens?

Posted by Dr. Nick Nicholson on April 22nd, 2016

Obesity has reached an epidemic proportion in the United States. With an estimated third of the population, teens and children included, considered overweight the need for intervention is running high. Linked to serious health complications, obesity, if left unchecked, can dramatically limit the quality and anticipated span of a life.

While surgical interventions have long been used to help adults reach and maintain healthy weights, procedures have only been employed on adolescents in extreme cases. When comorbidities are present, such as type 2 diabetes or issues with liver function, weight loss surgery may be advised. Overall, however, widespread application of surgical procedures to help teens gain control of their weight has not been advised. A recent study looked at the potential benefits bariatric surgical intervention may have for teens. The findings were encouraging.

The study followed a group of nearly 250 teens 19 and younger at the time of surgery over the course of three years. Teens in the study group were all considered severely obese. Surgical interventions included the gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy. At the three-year mark, researchers found a marked improvement in obesity-related conditions, such as type 2 diabetes, abnormal kidney function and high blood pressure. They also noted significant weight loss. While those findings were quite positive, researchers also found micronutrient deficiencies and that many teens required additional abdominal procedures.

The bottom line is that weight loss surgery can, in fact, help teens. That said, however, it is very important for parents, teens and clinicians to delve into this territory very carefully. The option as it related to permanent alterations of the body, such as bypasses, should only be considered as a last resort. Parents and teens who are concerned about weight are urged to speak with their healthcare providers. Diet, exercise, nutritional counseling and other techniques may offer the assistance required.

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