Bariatric surgery, also known as weight loss surgery, is performed to help individuals who are significantly overweight or obese lose weight. Obesity is a severe health condition that increases the risk of developing several serious conditions, such as heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. Bariatric surgery can be an effective treatment option for individuals who cannot lose weight through diet and exercise alone.
There are several different types of bariatric surgery, including gastric bypass, sleeve
gastrectomy, and adjustable gastric banding. Each type of surgery works differently to help individuals lose weight.
- Gastric bypass surgery involves creating a small pouch in the stomach and attaching it directly to the small intestine. This reduces the amount of food that can be eaten at one time and the absorption of calories.
- Sleeve gastrectomy involves removing a portion of the stomach to create a smaller, banana-shaped stomach. This reduces the amount of food that can be eaten at one time and reduces the production of hunger hormones.
- Adjustable gastric banding involves placing a band around the upper part of the stomach to create a small pouch. The band can be adjusted to allow more or less food to pass through to the rest of the stomach.
- Bariatric surgery is usually only recommended for individuals who are significantly overweight or obese, with a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher or a BMI of 35 or higher with other obesity-related conditions such as high blood pressure or diabetes. The surgery is typically only performed after other weight loss efforts, such as diet and exercise, have been tried and unsuccessful.
- Metabolic surgery is bariatric surgery specifically designed to treat type 2 diabetes and other metabolic conditions. These surgeries work by changing how the body processes food and absorbs nutrients, which can help to improve blood sugar control and reduce the risk of developing other diabetes-related complications. Some common types of metabolic surgery include gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, and biliopancreatic diversion with a duodenal switch.
Both bariatric and metabolic surgery are significant operations with risks, including infection, bleeding, and blood clots. However, for individuals who are significantly overweight or obese, the potential health benefits of the surgery may outweigh the risks. Speaking with a healthcare provider to determine if bariatric or metabolic surgery is an appropriate treatment option is essential.