Weight Loss Surgery

Is Not For Everyone

To The Editor:

I am writing in reference to the article on the couple who had weight loss surgery. [“Couple Planning To Get Even Closer After Same-Day Bariatric Surgery,” Newtown Bee, 12/26/08.] While I applaud them on their success, please know that it is not that way for everyone. This is a very risky and dangerous surgery and while the medical profession will tell you that they give you all of the risks before the surgery, there is so, so much more that can happen to you as a result of this surgery.

I became so ill that I had to be put on a feeding tube for several weeks and I now suffer from permanent complications as a result of the surgery. There are medications I cannot take, many foods I cannot eat, and medical procedures that can no longer be performed (due to the surgical changes in your anatomy). The goal of the surgery is to create malabsorption so that you absorb less calories. This surgery results in many changes to your body and your ability to absorb not only food, but medications as well.

Yes, it is a life-changing surgery, but not always for the better. While I have lost a great deal of weight, a good part of it was due to complications of the surgery. It has been five years since my first surgery and I have been hospitalized numerous times. The surgery also results in serious body image issues that may or may not be corrected with painful and expensive plastic surgery (not covered by medical insurance).

There is only one way to lose weight: reduce your calories and exercise. You still have to change your old habits. Even after weight loss surgery, you will regain weight if you choose not to exercise and eat properly.

I cannot impress enough the importance of making an informed decision before having this surgery. I never thought it would happen to me. I believed I would just be another success story. Unfortunately, I am not. If you would like more information, please feel free to contact me at jbrun77@yahoo.com.

Joanne Brunetti

77 Butterfield Road, Newtown                                December 29, 2008