Bariatric surgery refers to a group of surgical procedures designed to help people with severe obesity to lose weight by modifying the stomach or digestive system. These surgeries promote weight loss by either restricting how much food the stomach can hold(reducing portion size of food), reducing the absorption of nutrients, or a combination of both. Bariatric surgery is not a cosmetic procedure; it is considered a medically necessary treatment for individuals who face serious health risks due to obesity.
Types of Bariatric Surgery
There are several types of bariatric surgery, each with different mechanisms and outcomes. The most commonly performed procedures include:
1. Gastric Sleeve (Sleeve Gastrectomy – most popular procedure)
This procedure involves removing about 70-80% of the stomach, leaving a narrow sleeve-like section(banana shaped). The smaller stomach limits food intake and decreases the production of ghrelin, the hunger hormone, resulting in reduced appetite. It is one of the most popular bariatric procedures due to its effectiveness and relatively low complication rate.
2. Gastric Bypass (Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass/ MGB or SAGB)
In a gastric bypass, a small pouch is created at the top of the stomach and connected directly to the small intestine, bypassing a portion of the stomach and upper intestines. This leads to both reduced food intake and decreased nutrient absorption. It often results in rapid weight loss and improvement in obesity-related conditions like diabetes and hypertension.
3. Adjustable Gastric Band
A band is placed around the upper part of the stomach to create a small pouch that holds food. The tightness of the band can be adjusted over time to control food intake. While less invasive and reversible, this method has declined in popularity due to less significant long-term weight loss and higher complication rates.
4. Biliopancreatic Diversion with Duodenal Switch (BPD/DS)
This complex surgery combines a sleeve gastrectomy with an intestinal bypass. It significantly reduces nutrient absorption and results in the most substantial weight loss, but it also carries a higher risk of nutritional deficiencies and complications. It’s typically reserved for individuals with a BMI over 50 or those with severe metabolic disease.
Who is a Candidate for Bariatric Surgery?
Bariatric surgery is not suitable for everyone. Candidates must meet specific medical and psychological criteria to be considered for the procedure.
General Requirements Include:
- Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 or higher, or
- BMI of 35 or higher with obesity-related health conditions, such as type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea, or heart disease.
- Inability to achieve or maintain significant weight loss through non-surgical methods such as diet, exercise, or medication.
- Commitment to lifelong lifestyle changes, including dietary modifications, physical activity, and follow-up care.
- Undergoing medical, nutritional, and psychological evaluations to ensure readiness for the procedure and long-term commitment.
Conclusion
Bariatric surgery is a powerful tool for weight loss and improving obesity-related health conditions, but it’s not a quick fix. It requires dedication to a healthy lifestyle, permanent changes in eating habits, and ongoing medical care. If you’re struggling with obesity and conventional weight loss methods haven’t worked, bariatric surgery could be the next step. Consult with a well experienced ,qualified bariatric specialist to determine the best treatment option for your unique health profile.
