Making the decision to undergo Mini Gastric Bypass (MGB) surgery is deeply personal. For many, it’s not just about weight loss, it’s about reclaiming their health, confidence, and quality of life. However, one of the biggest hurdles patients face isn’t just deciding to proceed with surgery, but dealing with the skepticism and opposition from family, friends, and even doctors.
Dr. David Hargroder and longtime MGB advocate Carla Hubenthal recently discussed these challenges in a Facebook Live session. They explored why people are hesitant about weight loss surgery, how to respond to skeptics, and the life-changing benefits of the MGB procedure.
Why Do People Doubt Weight Loss Surgery?
Dr. Hargroder explains that opposition often stems from a place of love and concern. Loved ones worry about the risks associated with surgery, and many still view obesity as a simple issue of willpower—just eat less and exercise more. Unfortunately, this mindset overlooks the complexity of obesity and the proven benefits of bariatric surgery.
Additionally, misinformation plays a major role. Many people hear horror stories from acquaintances who “had that surgery” and experienced complications, only to find out later that they underwent a completely different procedure. Each bariatric surgery has its own risks and success rates and lumping them all together creates unnecessary fear.
Debunking Myths About MGB
One common concern from skeptics is, “I know someone who had that surgery and gained all their weight back.” Dr. Hargroder’s response? “Are you sure they had the Mini Gastric Bypass?” While no surgery is foolproof, weight regain after MGB is rare, especially when patients follow their post-op care plan.
“The people who come in, have the surgery, and never follow up are the ones most likely to struggle,” Dr. Hargroder explains. “But those who stay in touch and follow a few simple guidelines enjoy long-term success.”
Another misunderstanding is the term “mini” in Mini Gastric Bypass. The word “mini” refers to the procedure’s minimally invasive nature compared to traditional, more complex surgeries. It doesn’t mean the surgery is insignificant or less effective. In reality, MGB offers a safer profile, lower complication rates, and high long-term success.
Overcoming Family and Friend Opposition
For Carla, family opposition was a major challenge. Her daughter, a naturally thin woman, repeatedly insisted she should “just eat right and run.” Like many who haven’t experienced obesity, she didn’t understand the daily struggle of carrying excess weight. Even on the morning of Carla’s surgery, her daughter tried to talk her out of it.
But after losing 159 pounds, the tables turned. Carla recalls the moment her daughter, carrying a 20-pound bag of potatoes, complained about how heavy it was. “I told her to pick up eight more, strap them all over her body, and then go for a run.” That moment changed her daughter’s perspective forever. A few years later, she was encouraging her own best friend to have MGB.
Dealing with Skeptical Doctors
Even medical professionals can be skeptics. Carla’s own primary care doctor refused to support her surgery at first, insisting she just needed to diet and exercise. But after seeing Carla’s results, the same doctor began referring patients to MGB. This shift in perspective is something Dr. Hargroder sees often.
“The truth is, weight loss surgery has been scientifically proven to be more effective than diet and exercise alone,” he says. “There’s no real debate there. It’s about overcoming the stigma and getting people to understand the reality of obesity treatment”.
From Doubters to Believers
One of the most rewarding aspects of undergoing MGB is witnessing the transformation of naysayers. Family members, friends, and even skeptical doctors often become advocates once they see the incredible results.
“The people who doubted you will be the same ones saying, ‘I wish I had done this sooner,’” Carla shares. “After 19 years of working with Dr. Hargroder, I have never once had a patient say they regretted their surgery. Their only regret? Not doing it 10 years earlier.”
Final Thoughts: Moving Forward with Confidence
If you’re considering MGB surgery and facing opposition, remember this:
- People who resist your decision often do so out of concern or misinformation.
- MGB is different from other weight loss surgeries, with a strong safety profile and long-term success.
- Your confidence will grow post-surgery, and many of your skeptics will become supporters once they see your transformation.
As Dr. Hargroder puts it, “Don’t take opposition personally. Instead, educate them. And most importantly, don’t let fear hold you back from reclaiming your life.”