VA Bariatric Surgery Options for Veterans
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) official site describes bariatric surgery as “an operation that changes the digestive system. It is intended for people who have obesity and need to lose weight but have not been able to do so through other means.”
If you are a military service member or veteran struggling with your weight, you may wonder if there are options for the procedure under the VA healthcare system.
The VA offers this procedure to qualifying veterans, and you can make an appointment with the VA to schedule an evaluation. But what should veterans know about VA bariatric surgery options and what to expect during treatment? We cover some important topics below.
What is Bariatric Surgery?
NIH describes Bariatric surgery as a procedure “which requires only small cuts, under general anesthesia.” During the procedure, “the surgeon can insert thin tools and a small scope attached to a camera that projects images onto a video monitor.”
Many bariatric surgeries are known as sleeve gastrectomy procedures or gastric bypass procedures. A sleeve gastrectomy, also referred to as the gastric sleeve, consists of removing up to 80% of the stomach, converting it into a narrow tube that, being smaller, will fill more quickly.
This form of surgery has a higher rate of risk of malnutrition and cannot be reversed. That being said, the rate of weight regain is the lowest with this procedure.
Gastric bypass surgery known as a Roux-en-Y creates a small pouch by surgically separating part of the stomach from the rest, which is then attached to the small intestine. After such a procedure, the patient should have a smaller appetite and feel fuller faster.
The gastric bypass is thought to have a higher weight loss rate and a lower rate of regaining weight; however, this surgery may also increase the risk of malnutrition and ulcers.
Does the VA Offer Bariatric Surgery Options?
Bariatric surgery can help improve the quality of life and extend the health of those who qualify. However, for the results to take effect, you must be dedicated to changing your diet and lifestyle.
If bariatric surgery is an option for you, make sure to consider that it will change your digestive system and is not reversible with potential risks and complications. It is a decision that should be carefully considered before moving forward.
To qualify for VA bariatric surgery, you must have a BMI of above 40 or you must have additional complications like sleep apnea, diabetes or high blood pressure.
Generally speaking, you must be healthy enough to endure surgery, both mentally and physically. The doctor will also establish that diet and exercise have not been successful in losing weight for the patient.
A team of experts will recommend a treatment plan, which may include a surgeon, psychologist, and dietician. You will need to be otherwise healthy and pass an evaluation for the best long-term results. VA.gov advises, “For bariatric surgery, you may undergo a psychological evaluation to assess your readiness for surgery and your ability to make the necessary lifestyle changes after surgery.
Read next: Disabled Veteran Benefits Guide
Possible Risks and Complications
Bariatric surgery is a common surgery, but as with any surgery, it has risks for complications. Your surgeon will discuss the potential complications and safety risks with you. These can include but are not limited to:
- Infections
- Leaks
- Breathing problems
- Acid reflux, ulcers, and regular vomiting
- Digestive issues
- Kidney failure,
- Internal or external hernia
Certain symptoms may indicate a complication:
- Malnutrition-fatigue, feeling cold, swollen ankles, hair loss
- Dehydration-feeling dry or having dark and little urine
- Dumping syndrome- weakness, stomach cramps, pain, nausea, fainting
- Lactose intolerance-cramps, bloating, and diarrhea
- Gastrointestinal issues-nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain
- Psychological issues-emotional and psychological changes, including depression, anxiety, and body image issues
- Stomal stenosis-vomiting and difficulty eating
When to Contact Your Healthcare Provider
If any of your side effects or symptoms after surgery are severe, reach your healthcare provider immediately. If you have any of the following symptoms, call your doctor:
- Fever of 100.4°F or higher
- Chills
- A red, bleeding, or draining incision
- Nausea or vomiting that won’t stop
- Increased pain at an incision
- Pain or swelling in your legs
- Trouble breathing or chest pain
- Feeling anxious or depressed
Eating After Surgery
Your eating habits after surgery will also need to undergo permanent changes. While your stomach heals, your dietary restrictions will be more stringent initially. You will need to hydrate and monitor your sugar intake.
Your doctor may tell you to progress to purees and other soft foods while slowly reintroducing new foods into your diet. High-protein foods may be recommended while lowering sugar and starches.
Read next: Disabled Veteran Benefits Guide
Care After the Procedure
Post-surgery, you must adhere to the aftercare guidelines established by your doctor and medical team. Your body will need time to heal and to shift to your new appetite and nutritional needs.
You will also need to follow advice to re-establish physical activity. Following the recommendation will lead to better and more long-lasting results.
Once you are released and back home, you may experience stomach cramping or upset stomach and bowel irritation. You will need to use the prescribed pain medication as directed by your doctor for the first week or two post-op.
Your physician may allow you to return to work as long as your work is not physically strenuous (not lifting more than 10 pounds) within 3 to 4 weeks as directed as your physician. You may drive once you are no longer on pain medications. While your body adjusts, avoiding pregnancy for up to a year is best.
Physical Activity After Surgery
Once your body has healed enough for movement, you must become active to maintain your weight loss after surgery. Start slowly with something easy, like walking. Other options include using a stationary bike or chair aerobics. Eventually, it is recommended that physical activity be done for about 30 minutes every day.
Getting Started with VA Bariatric Surgery
If you need to know more about your options for bariatric surgery in the VA healthcare system, contact your nearest VA healthcare facility or contact your primary care provider to get started.
Read next: Disabled Veteran Benefits Guide
About the author
Kena Sosa is an award-winning author, filmmaker and percussionist. She
earned her BA from OLLU and her MBEGT from SMU. She published two
award-winning children’s books. Kena has written for CBS/DFW Local and
Multicultural Review Magazine. She was the Guest Editor for the Fall/Winter
2023 ChildArt Magazine issue. Kena has written for Recon Media since 2023.
