Study: Weight loss surgery positively impacts genes
April 24, 2013

Individuals who have trouble losing weight often turn to surgical means to help shed unwanted pounds. Gastric bypass surgery is just one of several methods, including liposuction and gastric bypass, that can help people get rid of stubborn fat that won't go away with simple diet and exercise. A new report published in Cell Reports this month finds that gastric bypass surgery has a surprising and positive effect on patients' genes.
Better genetics
Researchers at the Karolinska Institutet in Sweden found that following weight loss surgery, genes related to metabolic health can be "restored to a healthy state," resulting in an overall improvement in metabolism. In other words, after surgery, the genes responsible for maintaining a healthy weight and burning calories may be enhanced.
Other help for weight loss patients
This research may convince some who are considering weight loss surgery to go under the knife, as it could have long-term implications on lifestyle and health. However, many patients find that, following bariatric surgery or losing weight through other means, they are left with less-than-appealing loose skin. This occurs because skin loses elasticity over time, and rapid weight loss doesn't give it time to adjust to the new body contours.
Fortunately, plastic surgery can help. According to the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, there are a number of procedures that can help reduce sagging skin in various parts of the body. These include arm lifts, neck lifts, tummy tucks, lower or upper body lifts or breast lifts. Those who have recently gone through dramatic weight loss or are planning to undergo weight loss surgery should have a thorough conversation with a board-certified plastic surgeon to discuss what options are available to suit their needs.
The mission of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) includes medical education, public education and patient advocacy. Plastic Surgery News Briefs are summaries of current stories found through various news and magazine outlets that relate to or mention plastic surgery and cosmetic procedures. The views expressed in these news articles do not necessarily reflect the opinions of ASAPS, but are merely published as an educational service to our members and the general public. For additional information on these subjects and other plastic surgery related topics, please go to www.surgery.org
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The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS), is recognized as the world's leading organization devoted entirely to aesthetic plastic surgery and cosmetic medicine of the face and body. ASAPS is comprised of over 2,600 Plastic Surgeons; Active Members are certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (USA) or by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada and have extensive training in the complete spectrum of surgical and nonsurgical aesthetic procedures. International Active Members are certified by equivalent boards of their respective countries. All members worldwide adhere to a strict Code of Ethics and must meet stringent membership requirements.
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