Weight Loss Surgery 101
Weight loss surgery, also known as bariatric surgery, is a life-changing procedure that can help individuals struggling with obesity achieve significant and sustainable weight loss. If you’re considering weight loss surgery as an option, it’s essential to understand the basics before making a decision. Here’s everything you need to know about weight loss surgery.
What Is Weight Loss Surgery?
Weight loss surgery refers to a variety of surgical procedures designed to help individuals lose weight by reducing the size of the stomach or altering the digestive process. These procedures are typically recommended for people who have tried and failed to lose weight through diet and exercise alone and whose obesity poses significant health risks.
Types of Weight Loss Surgery
There are several types of weight loss surgeries, each with its own benefits and risks. The most common procedures include:
Gastric Bypass: This surgery involves dividing the stomach into a smaller upper pouch and a larger lower pouch and rerouting the small intestine to connect to both. Gastric bypass reduces the amount of food you can eat and limits the absorption of nutrients.
Sleeve Gastrectomy: In this procedure, a portion of the stomach is removed, leaving a smaller, sleeve-shaped stomach. Sleeve gastrectomy reduces the stomach’s capacity and decreases the production of hunger-inducing hormones.
Gastric Banding: Also known as lap band surgery, gastric banding involves placing an adjustable band around the upper part of the stomach to create a smaller stomach pouch. The band can be tightened or loosened to control food intake.
Duodenal Switch: This surgery combines aspects of gastric sleeve and gastric bypass procedures. It involves removing a portion of the stomach and rerouting the small intestine to reduce the amount of food you can eat and absorb.
Who Is a Candidate for Weight Loss Surgery?
Weight loss surgery is typically recommended for individuals with a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher (severe obesity) or a BMI of 35 or higher with obesity-related health conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or sleep apnea. Candidates must also be committed to making long-term lifestyle changes to support their weight loss journey.
Benefits of Weight
Benefits of Weight Loss Surgery
Weight loss surgery can offer numerous benefits beyond just shedding pounds, including:
- Significant and sustainable weight loss
- Improvement or resolution of obesity-related health conditions
- Increased energy and mobility
- Enhanced quality of life and self-confidence
