Bariatric surgery is a life-changing procedure that can help people with severe obesity and related health issues experience dramatic weight loss and improved health and wellbeing.
This article will provide an overview of bariatric surgery, its types, benefits, risks, and complications;what to expect after surgery; and what to consider before having the procedure.
Bariatric surgery, also known as weight loss surgery, is a type of procedure used to help people with severe obesity lose weight and improve their health and wellbeing. It is usually recommended for people whose body mass index (BMI) is 40 or higher or who have a BMI of 35 and are experiencing obesity-related health conditions such as type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure.
Bariatric surgery can help reduce the risk of serious health problems associated with being severely overweight or obese, including heart disease, stroke, and certain types of cancer. It can also help improve mental health and quality of life.
What is Bariatric Surgery?
Bariatric surgery is a procedure that helps people with severe obesity and related health issues lose weight by changing the way their digestive system works.
It is usually done laparoscopically, which means that the surgeon makes a series of small incisions rather than one large one.
The goal of bariatric surgery is to limit the amount of food that the stomach can hold, limit the amount of calories that the body absorbs, and/or reduce hunger and cravings. The exact type of surgery will depend on the individual’s health and lifestyle.
Types of Bariatric Surgery
There are several types of bariatric surgery available, including gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, adjustable gastric band, and biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch.
Gastric bypass surgery is the most common type of bariatric surgery. In this procedure, the surgeon creates a small stomach pouch and connects it directly to the small intestine.
This significantly reduces the amount of food that can be eaten and the number of calories that are absorbed. Sleeve gastrectomy is another type of bariatric surgery that involves removing a large portion of the stomach, leaving a thin “sleeve” of stomach.
This reduces the amount of food that can be eaten and the number of calories that are absorbed. Adjustable gastric band surgery is a type of bariatric surgery that involves placing an adjustable band around the top of the stomach.
This helps reduce hunger and makes it easier to feel full after eating smaller amounts of food. Biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch is a type of bariatric surgery that involves removing a portion of the small intestine and connecting it directly to the stomach.
This reduces the amount of food that can be eaten and the number of calories that are absorbed.
Benefits of Bariatric Surgery
The primary benefit of bariatric surgery is that it can help people with severe obesity and related health issues experience dramatic weight loss.
The amount of weight loss will vary depending on the individual, but most people can expect to lose about 50 to 80 percent of their excess body weight in the first year after surgery. In addition to weight loss, bariatric surgery can also help improve or resolve obesity-related health conditions.
These include type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, joint pain, and heart disease. It can also help reduce the risk of certain types of cancers and improve mental health and quality of life.
Risks and Complications of Bariatric Surgery
Like all surgeries, bariatric surgery carries risks and potential complications. These can include bleeding, infection, and blood clots.
The risk of complications is higher in people who are older, have other chronic health conditions, or have had previous abdominal surgery. In addition, bariatric surgery can cause nutritional deficiencies, and people may need to take vitamin and mineral supplements to prevent deficiencies.
It can also cause dumping syndrome, which is a condition in which food moves too quickly through the digestive system, causing nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
What to Expect After Bariatric Surgery
After bariatric surgery, most people experience rapid weight loss in the first six to twelve months. This can be followed by a more gradual weight loss over the next six to twelve months. In addition to weight loss, people can expect to experience improved health and wellbeing.
This includes improved mental health, increased energy levels, and reduced risk of obesity-related health conditions. It is important to note that bariatric surgery is not a “quick fix” and requires long-term changes in diet and lifestyle.
People should work with their healthcare team to create a plan to help them maintain their weight loss and improve their health and wellbeing.
Long-Term Benefits of Bariatric Surgery
The long-term benefits of bariatric surgery include sustained weight loss, improved health and wellbeing, and reduced risk of obesity-related health conditions.
Studies have shown that people who have had bariatric surgery have a significantly lower risk of death than people who have not had the procedure. In addition, bariatric surgery can help improve quality of life, including improved self-esteem, social relationships, and physical and mental health.
What to Consider Before Having Bariatric Surgery
It is important to carefully consider the risks and potential benefits of bariatric surgery before deciding to have the procedure.
People should talk to their healthcare team and discuss the types of bariatric surgery available, the risks and potential complications, and their expectations for the long-term results.
It is also important to remember that bariatric surgery is not a “quick fix” and requires long-term changes in diet and lifestyle in order to maintain the weight loss and improved health and wellbeing.
Resources to Help You Decide if Bariatric Surgery is Right for You
If you are considering bariatric surgery, there are several resources available to help you make an informed decision. Talk to your healthcare team about the types of bariatric surgery available, the risks and potential complications, and your expectations for the long-term results.
You can also talk to people who have had bariatric surgery and read online resources to learn more about the procedure. The American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery has a list of resources to help you make an informed decision.
Bariatric surgery can be a life-changing procedure for people with severe obesity and related health issues. It can help people lose weight, improve their health and wellbeing, and reduce their risk of serious health problems.
It is important to carefully consider the risks and potential benefits of bariatric surgery before deciding to have the procedure. Talk to your healthcare team and read online resources to learn more about the types of bariatric surgery available, the risks and potential complications, and what to expect after surgery.
With the right preparation and support, bariatric surgery can be a safe and effective way to transform your life.
