Weight-loss Surgery Benefits

What are the benefits of weight-loss surgery?

Weight-loss surgery, also called metabolic and bariatric surgery, can help you lose weight and improve many health problems related to obesity. These health problems include

type 2 diabetes
high blood pressure
heart disease
unhealthy cholesterol levels
sleep apnea
urinary incontinence
knee, hip, or other body pain

For people with severe obesity, weight-loss surgery can extend years of life.⁷

You may be better able to move around and be physically active after surgery. You might also notice your mood improve and feel like your quality of life is better. As an added benefit, you may be able to take fewer prescription medications as you move into a healthier weight, which can reduce the cost burden.⁸

A man and child playing outdoors with a ball. — You may be better able to move around and be physically active after surgery.

References

Last Reviewed September 2020

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This content is provided as a service of the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), part of the National Institutes of Health. NIDDK translates and disseminates research findings to increase knowledge and understanding about health and disease among patients, health professionals, and the public. Content produced by NIDDK is carefully reviewed by NIDDK scientists and other experts.