Plano, TX, Dec. 16, 2015 – Severely obese teenagers may face complications that go well beyond a potential lowering of self-esteem. When weight is unchecked, health concerns such as Type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure may arise. Researchers are finding, however, that bariatric surgery can make a real difference, often removing concerns about health complications from excess weight.

“Bariatric surgery for teenagers is gaining popularity as an option for reasons that go well beyond cosmetic,” says Dr. Nick Nicholson, founder and lead surgeon of Abdominal Surgery Specialists, a part of the Nicholson Clinic for Weight Loss Surgery. “While this type of surgery should not be entered into lightly, research supports the assertion that it does offer teens considered severely obese an effective way to improve their health status and self-esteem at the same time.”

Dr. Nicholson was referring to a study conducted by the Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center. There researchers tracked 242 teens who were severely obese. The teens, ages 13 to 19, weighed an average of 325 pound prior to undergoing weight loss surgery. The study found that the teens not only dropped about a third of their body weight overall, most were able to maintain the loss for three years. In addition, researchers found that obesity-related diseases were stopped in their tracks following surgery. About 95 percent of teens who had Type 2 diabetes prior to surgery saw their symptoms reverse at the three-year mark.

“Researchers also noted improve blood pressure readings, lower blood fat and improved kidney function,” Dr. Nicholson says. “The potential benefits show that this option is one that should be considered in severe cases to help improve quality of life for teens.”

Obesity is a problem that affects an estimated third of the American population. Teenagers who are obese can face a number of life-limiting complications. If obesity is a concern, it’s important to speak with a healthcare provider to explore all options for promoting safe, effective weight loss.

About Abdominal Surgery Specialists
Founded by Dr. Nick Nicholson, one of the country’s leading weight loss surgeons and co-author of “Weight Loss Surgery: The Real Skinny,” Abdominal Surgery Specialists provides patients with a variety of options to treat conditions including gallbladders, hernias, reflux and obesity.