2024-11-11 03:30:00
DBy early 2025, Simon Biron hopes to lose a hundred kilos, or just under half his current weight. His decision is made: at 43 years old, this former hotel manager from La Roche-sur-Yon will entrust his body to bariatric surgery, this specialty intended for people suffering from severe obesity. The operation will take place in two phases. The first, called sleeveit will reduce his stomach by two thirds. The second, baptized bypassit will consist of a diversion of the circuit from the small intestine to the digestive tract. A new life awaits him, he hopes, far from the torments of everyday life and the poison of stigma. Also far from the injunctions of “body positivism”, this trendy movement on social networks that encourages people to feel good, whatever their physical shape. “It’s very nice to accept you as you are, he said. Except that exceeding your normal weight by 60 kilos is dangerous. » He weighs 216, for 1.80 meters.
Simon Biron searched for a long time for the causes of his hyperphagia which, on certain evenings, pushed him to ingest “80 euros at McDonald’s”before spending part of the night watching Desperate housewivesand then set the table again early in the morning. He recalled being bullied in middle school. Since leaving work, thanks to a conventional break, he also knows how work stress could have exacerbated his gargantuan appetite. “I have always reacted to frustrations with foodexplains. Eating calms me, especially before going to bed, convinced, wrongly, that we sleep better with a full stomach. » The man speaks “Force-feeding sessions” pushed to the extreme, until his stomach gave out on its own. “I eat my emotions”he confided to a psychologist.
Two tickets to take the bus
THE “click” came three years ago, when, after a health check, Simon Biron stepped on a scale for the first time in a long time. The needle weighed nearly 200 pounds. THE “big”as it appears in the evening, it will rise to 232 kilos, not without having tested different brands of food supplements, nor tried multiple diets, from the high-protein diet to the Paleolithic diet consisting of eating as our ancestors did. A second trigger occurred in the meantime when faced with the impossibility of sharing a bike ride with her young niece: “He kicked me in the butt. »
Interview between the Time.news Editor and Dr. Isabelle Mendez, Bariatric Surgery Specialist
Time.news Editor: Welcome, Dr. Mendez! Today we have an insightful story about Simon Biron, a 43-year-old former hotel manager from La Roche-sur-Yon, who has decided to undergo bariatric surgery. Are you familiar with his case?
Dr. Isabelle Mendez: Yes, I am. Simon’s commitment to addressing his obesity is commendable, and it’s a significant step not just for his physical health but also for his mental well-being.
Editor: Simon aims to lose nearly 100 kilos with surgery that involves a two-phase procedure: the sleeve and then the bypass. Can you explain what these procedures entail and how they differ?
Dr. Mendez: Absolutely! The sleeve gastrectomy, or ”sleeve,” involves removing a large portion of the stomach, which reduces its capacity. This not only limits food intake but also affects hormones that regulate appetite. The second phase, the gastric bypass, involves altering the digestive tract to bypass part of the stomach and small intestine, effectively reducing calorie absorption. Together, they promote substantial weight loss and can lead to significant health improvements.
Editor: In the article, Simon expresses his struggle with societal expectations and body positivity movements. He feels that while self-acceptance is essential, living with a weight over 216 kilos poses serious health risks. What’s your perspective on this duality of body positivity and health?
Dr. Mendez: That’s a great question! While body positivity can foster self-love and acceptance, it’s crucial to differentiate between self-acceptance and the health implications of severe obesity. Obesity can lead to various health conditions, including diabetes, heart disease, and sleep apnea. So, while we advocate for self-acceptance, we also need to recognize when a health intervention, like bariatric surgery, might be necessary for an individual’s well-being.
Editor: Many might view Simon’s choice as controversial due to the societal discussions around body image. How do you think healthcare professionals should navigate conversations about weight management in the context of these movements?
Dr. Mendez: It’s vital to approach these conversations with sensitivity and empathy. Healthcare professionals should acknowledge the complexity of weight issues, which includes biological, psychological, and social factors. Creating an open and non-judgmental space allows patients like Simon to express their concerns and motivations honestly. This holistic understanding can empower patients to make informed choices about their health.
Editor: Simon hopes for a new life after surgery, free from stigma. What kind of support systems do you think will be crucial for him post-surgery?
Dr. Mendez: Post-surgery, it’s essential for patients to have comprehensive support that includes nutritional counseling, psychological support, and perhaps a support group with others who have undergone similar procedures. This multi-faceted approach can help individuals navigate the emotional challenges of their weight loss journey and promote lasting lifestyle changes.
Editor: Lastly, what advice would you give to individuals considering bariatric surgery, like Simon?
Dr. Mendez: I would advise them to thoroughly research their options, consult with qualified professionals, and have realistic expectations. It’s a significant commitment that requires lifestyle changes, but with the right support and dedication, it can lead to a healthier, more fulfilling life. Ultimately, it should always come down to what feels right for the individual.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Mendez, for sharing your insights! Simon’s story is a poignant reminder of the complexities of health and wellness in today’s society.
Dr. Mendez: Thank you for having me! I hope that conversations like these continue to break down stigma and offer understanding.
