What is Bariatric Surgery?

Bariatric surgery consists of a range of surgical procedures that aim to aid weight loss by modifying your digestive. These procedures can decrease in size the stomach and restrict the amount of food consumed, or alter how your organs absorb nutrients. It is typically advised for those suffering from extreme obesity or who haven’t achieved significant weight loss with other methods, including exercising and diet.

Who Performs Your Surgery?

The bariatric surgeries we offer are carried out by a group comprised of skilled and knowledgeable surgeons that specialize in weight loss techniques. They are assisted by a multidisciplinary group, comprising psychologists, dietitians, and nurses to ensure that each aspect of your treatment is taken care of. This approach to care is collaborative and provides a customized treatment plan that is tailored to your individual requirements and goals.

Types of Bariatric Surgery

• Gastric Bypass (Roux-en-Y) :- This process involves creating a stomach pouch, and then taking out a small portion from the small intestinal. The stomach’s capacity is reduced and alters the absorption of nutrients, which results in significant weight loss.
• Gastric Sleeve (Sleeve Gastrectomy) :- A significant portion that is the stomach eliminated to form a smaller, with a sleeve-shaped stomach. This restricts the amount of food consumed and decreases appetite hormones, which can lead to effective weight loss.
• Adjustable Gastric Banding (Lap-Band) :- A band is positioned around the upper portion of the stomach, creating an encapsulated pouch. The band is adjustable to regulate consumption of food and help with the gradual loss of weight.
• Biliopancreatic Diversion Using Duodenal Switch (BPD/DS) :- This procedure combines a sleeves gastroexcision with a bypassing of a substantial part in the small intestinal tract that results in significant weight loss and better metabolic results.

Indications for Bariatric Surgery

• Severe Obesity :- Individuals with a BMI of 40 or higher, or a BMI of 35 or higher with obesity-related health conditions.
• Ineffective Weight Loss with Other Methods :- Those who have not achieved significant weight loss through diet, exercise, or medication.
• Obesity-Related Health Conditions :- Conditions such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, or obstructive sleep apnea, where weight loss can lead to significant health improvements.

Diagnosis Leading to Bariatric Surgery

The diagnosis process involves a thorough examination that includes a medical history, physical exam as well as diagnostic tests like imaging studies and blood tests. Psychological evaluation and consultation with a dietitian is crucial to ensure that patients are well-prepared to make the necessary lifestyle changes following surgery.

Treatment Process

Bariatric surgery is usually carried out under general anesthesia. It can involve minimally invasive procedures or, in some instances open surgery. The procedure is usually between one and three hours, based on the type of procedure done. Following surgery, patients follow a specific recovery program which includes diet modifications and gradual return to physical activities.

Care and Recovery After Surgery

The process of recovering from bariatric surgery requires changing your lifestyle which includes a diet change and continued assistance. Patients follow a strict eating regimen, beginning with liquids before moving to solid food. Regular follow-up visits are essential to monitor progress, addressing any issues, and offering continuous support to ensure successful treatment.