Bariatric surgery is a surgical procedure that helps people lose weight by making changes to the digestive system. While bariatric surgery is often recommended for people who have tried and failed to lose weight through diet and exercise alone, it’s important to note that it is not a quick fix or a cure-all solution. In this blog post, we’ll cover everything you need to know about bariatric surgery, including types, criteria, procedure, risks, benefits, and lifestyle changes.
Types of Bariatric Surgery
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There are several types of this surgery, each with its own benefits and risks. The most common types of bariatric surgery are:
- Gastric Bypass Surgery: This involves creating a small pouch at the top of the stomach and connecting it directly to the small intestine. Gastric bypass surgery is a highly effective weight loss surgery that can lead to significant weight loss and improvements in co-morbidities such as diabetes, hypertension, and sleep apnea.
- Sleeve Gastrectomy: This involves removing a large portion of the stomach to create a smaller, tube-shaped stomach. Sleeve gastrectomy is a less invasive surgery than gastric bypass surgery and can also lead to significant weight loss and improvements in co-morbidities.
- Adjustable Gastric Banding: This involves placing an inflatable band around the upper part of the stomach to create a small pouch. Adjustable gastric banding is a reversible surgery that can be adjusted over time, but it may not be as effective as other types of bariatric surgery.
- Biliopancreatic Diversion with Duodenal Switch: This involves removing a large portion of the stomach and rerouting the small intestine to the remaining portion of the stomach. This type of surgery is reserved for people with a BMI over 50 or those with severe medical conditions.
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Criteria for Bariatric Surgery
Not everyone is a candidate for bariatric surgery. Generally, people who have a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 or higher, or a BMI of 35 or higher with co-morbidities such as diabetes, hypertension, or sleep apnea, are considered candidates for bariatric surgery. Age and health status are also important factors to consider.
Preparation for Bariatric Surgery
Before undergoing bariatric surgery, patients must go through a medical evaluation, nutritional counseling, and a psychological evaluation. Patients are also required to follow a pre-surgery diet and exercise program to prepare their bodies for the surgery.
Procedure for Bariatric Surgery
Bariatric surgery is performed under general anesthesia, and the procedure can take anywhere from one to four hours. The surgeon makes several small incisions in the abdomen and uses a laparoscope to perform the surgery. Patients typically stay in the hospital for one to three days after the surgery.
Risks and Complications
Like all surgeries, bariatric surgery carries risks and complications. Short-term risks and complications may include bleeding, infection, and blood clots. Long-term risks and complications may include malnutrition, bowel obstruction, and hernias. However, many of these risks can be prevented by following the post-operative care instructions provided by the surgeon.
Success Rates of Bariatric Surgery
Bariatric surgery has been shown to be an effective way to achieve significant and sustained weight loss. Studies have also shown that bariatric surgery can lead to an improvement in co-morbidities such as diabetes, hypertension, and sleep apnea. Patients who undergo bariatric surgery often report an improvement in quality of life, including increased mobility, self-esteem, and social functioning.
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Lifestyle Changes
While bariatric surgery can be an effective tool for weight loss, it’s important to remember that it’s not a cure-all solution. To achieve the best results and maintain weight loss over the long term, patients must make significant lifestyle changes. This includes adopting healthy eating habits, getting regular exercise, and participating in support groups or counseling. Patients must also be diligent about following the post-operative care instructions provided by their surgeon.
Conclusion
Bariatric surgery is a highly effective way to achieve significant and sustained weight loss. While the surgery does carry risks and complications, it can also lead to an improvement in co-morbidities and an increased quality of life. If you are considering bariatric surgery, it’s important to talk to your doctor to determine if you are a good candidate and to discuss the risks and benefits of the procedure. Remember, bariatric surgery is not a quick fix or a cure-all solution, but it can be an effective tool for achieving significant weight loss and improving your overall health.
