Bariatric Surgery
Bariatric surgery is a surgical procedure performed on individuals who are severely overweight or obese. It aims to help them lose weight by reducing the size of the stomach, limiting food intake, or altering the digestion process.
Bariatric surgery is typically considered for individuals with a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher, or a BMI of 35 or higher with obesity-related health conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or sleep apnea. However, eligibility criteria can vary depending on the specific procedure and the recommendations of the healthcare provider.
The most common types of bariatric surgery include gastric bypass, gastric sleeve, and adjustable gastric banding. Gastric bypass involves creating a smaller stomach pouch and rerouting the digestive tract. Gastric sleeve involves removing a large portion of the stomach, leaving a smaller sleeve-shaped pouch. Adjustable gastric banding involves placing an adjustable band around the upper part of the stomach to limit food intake.
Bariatric surgery can lead to significant weight loss, improved obesity-related health conditions, enhanced quality of life, increased mobility, and improved self-esteem. It may also reduce the risk of developing obesity-related complications such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer.
Like any surgery, bariatric surgery carries risks such as infection, bleeding, blood clots, and reactions to anesthesia. Specific complications can include leaks from staple lines, nutritional deficiencies, gallstones, and stomach ulcers. It’s important to discuss the potential risks and benefits with your healthcare provider.
Bariatric surgery requires significant lifestyle changes to support long-term success. This includes following a specific post-surgery diet, eating smaller portions, avoiding high-calorie and high-sugar foods, regular exercise, and attending follow-up appointments with healthcare providers. Psychological support and counseling may also be recommended.
The amount of weight loss varies depending on the individual, the type of surgery, and adherence to post-surgery guidelines. On average, individuals can expect to lose 50% to 70% of their excess weight within the first two years following surgery.
Yes, bariatric surgery can impact nutrient absorption, and as a result, lifelong supplementation is usually required. Commonly recommended supplements include multivitamins, calcium, vitamin D, iron, and vitamin B12. Regular blood tests will help monitor nutrient levels and guide supplementation.
Bariatric surgery can significantly reduce or eliminate the need for medication to manage obesity-related conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure. However, it’s important to work closely with your healthcare provider to determine the best approach for your individual situation.
While some procedures, like gastric banding, can be reversed, others, like gastric bypass or gastric sleeve, are usually not reversible. Reversal of a procedure may carry its own risks and complications, so it’s crucial to thoroughly discuss the long-term implications with your healthcare provider before proceeding with any surgery.