What is bariatric surgery?
Bariatric surgery refers to a variety of surgical procedures performed to help people with severe obesity lose weight. It involves making changes to the digestive system to limit the amount of food the stomach can hold or alter nutrient absorption.
Who is a candidate for bariatric surgery?
Candidates typically meet one or more of the following criteria:
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A body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher, or a BMI of 35 or higher with obesity-related health conditions (e.g., diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea).
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Failure to lose weight through diet and exercise.
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The ability to commit to a long-term lifestyle change.
What are the different types of bariatric surgery?
There are several types of bariatric surgery, but 2 of the most effective and popular ones are:
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Gastric Bypass (Roux-en-Y): The stomach is divided into a small pouch and a bypass is created to direct food to the lower part of the small intestine.
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Gastric Sleeve (Sleeve Gastrectomy): A large portion of the stomach is removed, leaving a tube-like structure.
What is the difference between Gastric Bypass and Gastric Sleeve?
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Gastric Bypass (Roux-en-Y) Involves creating a small pouch from the stomach and rerouting the small intestine to this pouch, bypassing a significant portion of the stomach and the first part of the small intestine. This reduces both the amount of food you can eat and the calories/nutrients your body absorbs. Regarding weight loss Gastric Bypass generally results in faster and more significant weight loss compared to the sleeve. On average, patients lose about 60-80% of excess weight within the first 18 months.
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Gastric Sleeve (Sleeve Gastrectomy): Involves removing a large portion of the stomach, leaving a sleeve-shaped structure that’s about the size of a banana. This reduces the stomach’s capacity, limiting the amount of food you can eat, but it doesn’t alter the digestive tract’s length or cause malabsorption like gastric bypass. Regarding weight loss Gastric Sleeve leads to moderate but still significant weight loss. On average, patients lose about 50-70% of excess weight within the first 18 months.
What are the benefits of bariatric surgery?
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Significant weight loss
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Improvement or resolution of obesity-related health conditions like type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea, and hypertension
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Enhanced quality of life, mobility, and overall well-being
What are the risks and complications?
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Infection
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Blood clots
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Nutritional deficiencies
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Dumping syndrome (rapid gastric emptying)
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Gastric leaks, bleeding, or scarring
What is the recovery process like?
Recovery varies depending on the type of surgery, but most patients are in the hospital for 1-2 days. Full recovery can take several weeks, and you’ll need to gradually reintroduce foods into your diet. Follow-up appointments with your healthcare team are essential to monitor your progress.
How much weight can I expect to lose after surgery?
On average, patients can lose 50-80% of their excess weight within the first 18 months after surgery. Weight loss varies depending on the procedure, commitment to diet and exercise, and individual factors.
Will I need to change my diet after surgery?
Yes, diet changes are essential. You’ll need to follow a prescribed eating plan that typically starts with liquids and gradually progresses to solid foods. You may also need to take vitamins and supplements to avoid nutritional deficiencies.
Can I regain weight after bariatric surgery?
Yes, it is possible to regain weight if you don’t follow dietary and lifestyle guidelines. Success depends on long-term commitment to healthy eating, regular physical activity, and maintaining follow-up care.
Will I be able to eat normally after surgery?
You will be able to eat, but in much smaller portions. The surgery changes how your stomach and digestive system function, so eating large portions or unhealthy foods may cause discomfort or complications.
Are there psychological considerations for bariatric surgery?
Bariatric surgery can have significant emotional and psychological effects. It’s essential to be mentally prepared for the changes and challenges that come with significant weight loss, including body image issues and potential emotional changes.
How can I prepare for bariatric surgery?
Preparation may include medical tests, consultations with a dietitian and surgeon, and psychological assessments. You’ll also be asked to start a pre-surgery diet or lifestyle changes to help prepare your body for the procedure.
