Is metabolic surgery safe for patients with diabetes?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am 44 years old and have been living with type 2 diabetes for over a decade and also dealing with high blood pressure. I have been looking into metabolic surgery cause no matter what I do, the sugar levels do not stabilize, and the medications keep going up. My BMI (body mass index) is around 39, and I already have nerve pain and tingling in my feet.

A friend of mine had this surgery last year and swears it changed his life. But I am worried about my heart issues and my BP (blood pressure) being unstable sometimes. Also, I read something about how it affects vitamin absorption and leads to other problems. I have a kid to look after and cannot afford to be down for too long.

Can this surgery reverse diabetes or just reduce symptoms?
How risky is it for someone with both BP (blood pressure) and diabetes?

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

Thanks for reaching out. Based on what you have shared, you sound like a strong candidate for metabolic surgery. Surgery can dramatically improve and sometimes even fully reverse type 2 diabetes, especially in people like you who have had it for less than 15 years. Many patients see major drops in blood sugar levels and can often stop or reduce their diabetes medications after surgery. That said, because you have blood pressure and heart issues, we would need a full check-up first, including a cardiology review, to make sure surgery is safe for you. Some types of surgery, like gastric bypass, can affect vitamin absorption, but this is managed with daily supplements and regular blood tests.

Recovery is usually pretty quick. You would likely be walking the next day and back to lighter activities within two to three weeks. Having said all the above, it is essential that you seek an appointment with a bariatric surgery team (surgeon, dietitian, and endocrinologist) to discuss your case in detail and understand the best options available for you. I am happy to help you with any other questions you may have.

I hope this answers your query.

Let me assist you further.

Thanks.