What Is Bariatric Surgery?
Bariatric surgery is a type of weight loss surgery. Doctors use it to help people lose weight when other methods have not worked. This surgery changes your stomach or small intestine to limit how much you can eat or absorb. As a result, you may lose weight more easily. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), obesity can lead to many health problems. Bariatric surgery can help lower these risks for some people.
Common Types of Bariatric Surgery
There are several weight loss surgery options. Each type works in a different way. Here are the most common types:
Gastric Bypass: This surgery makes your stomach smaller and changes your small intestine. It helps you feel full sooner and absorb fewer calories.
Gastric Sleeve: In this surgery, doctors remove part of your stomach. The smaller stomach helps you eat less food.
Adjustable Gastric Band: A band is placed around the top of your stomach. It can be tightened or loosened to control how much you eat.
Biliopancreatic Diversion with Duodenal Switch: This is a more complex surgery. It changes both your stomach and small intestine to limit food and calorie absorption.
Who Is a Candidate for Bariatric Surgery?
Not everyone is a good fit for bariatric surgery. Doctors use certain guidelines to decide who should have this surgery. You may be a candidate if:
Your body mass index (BMI) is 40 or higher.
Your BMI is 35 or higher and you have serious health problems like diabetes or high blood pressure.
You have tried other weight loss methods without success.
You are ready to make long-term lifestyle changes.
However, your doctor will check your health and talk with you about your options. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends a full medical evaluation before surgery.
Benefits and Risks of Bariatric Surgery
Bariatric surgery offers many benefits. For example, it can help you lose a lot of weight. It may also lower your risk for heart disease, diabetes, and sleep apnea. Some people see their blood pressure and cholesterol improve. However, like any surgery, there are risks. You may have side effects or complications. These can include:
Infection
Bleeding
Blood clots
Leaks in the stomach or intestine
Nutrient deficiencies
Is bariatric surgery safe? Most people have good results, but it is important to talk with your doctor about the risks and benefits. Peer-reviewed studies show that the benefits often outweigh the risks for people with severe obesity.
The Surgical Process and Recovery
First, your doctor will explain the steps of your weight loss surgery. Most bariatric surgeries use small cuts and special tools. This is called minimally invasive surgery. It usually means less pain and a faster recovery. After surgery, you will stay in the hospital for a few days. You will start with liquids and slowly add soft foods. Your doctor will give you bariatric surgery recovery tips, such as:
Follow your meal plan closely
Drink plenty of water
Take your vitamins as directed
Walk or move as soon as you can
Attend all follow-up visits
Most people return to normal activities within a few weeks. However, full recovery can take several months.
Lifestyle Changes After Surgery
After bariatric surgery, you will need to make lasting changes. For example, you must eat smaller meals and chew food well. You will also need to avoid high-sugar and high-fat foods. Regular exercise is important for keeping the weight off. Your doctor may suggest joining a support group. This can help you stay on track and share tips with others. Remember, bariatric surgery is a tool, not a cure. Your choices after surgery will affect your long-term success.
Prevention of Complications
To prevent problems after surgery, follow your doctor’s advice. Here are some ways to lower your risk of complications:
Take all medicines and vitamins as prescribed
Go to all follow-up appointments
Watch for signs of infection, such as fever or redness
Report any pain or unusual symptoms right away
Stay active, but avoid heavy lifting until your doctor says it is safe
With good care, most people recover well and enjoy better health after bariatric surgery.
Conclusion: Is Bariatric Surgery Right for You?
Bariatric surgery can be life-changing for people with severe obesity. It offers many benefits, but it also requires commitment and care. If you are thinking about weight loss surgery options, talk with a qualified surgeon. They can help you decide if bariatric surgery is right for you.
Take the first step towards a healthier you — book a consultation with Sree Rama Healthcare Services today!