Bariatric Surgery
Bariatric surgery refers to a group of surgical procedures performed on the stomach or intestines to help individuals with severe obesity lose weight. These procedures work by limiting the amount of food a person can eat, reducing the absorption of nutrients, or both. It is often a last resort for individuals who have not been able to achieve significant weight loss through diet and exercise alone.
Fill out our information form to receive detailed information, and we will connect you with our contracted physicians.
Obesity Surgery
Sleeve Gastrectomy
Sleeve gastrectomy is a surgical procedure that removes a large portion of the stomach, leaving a banana-shaped pouch or "sleeve." This reduces the amount of food you can eat and also lowers the production of the hunger hormone ghrelin, helping to control appetite.
Gastric Bypass
Gastric bypass surgery involves creating a small stomach pouch and then rerouting a section of the small intestine to it. This procedure limits both food intake and the absorption of calories, leading to significant weight loss.
Duodenal Switch
This is a more complex two-part surgery that combines a sleeve gastrectomy with an intestinal bypass. It dramatically reduces the size of the stomach and reroutes a large portion of the small intestine to greatly decrease nutrient absorption.
FAQ for Bariatric Surgery
How does bariatric surgery work to cause weight loss?
Bariatric surgery primarily works through two mechanisms: restriction and malabsorption. Restrictive procedures, like a sleeve gastrectomy, reduce the size of the stomach, limiting the amount of food a person can eat. Malabsorptive procedures, such as a gastric bypass, reroute the digestive system to reduce the absorption of calories and nutrients, which contributes to weight loss. Many procedures combine both mechanisms for a more powerful effect.
Is bariatric surgery a permanent solution for obesity?
Bariatric surgery is not a “cure” but a powerful tool for long-term weight management. It requires a permanent commitment to a healthy lifestyle, including a modified diet and regular physical activity. The surgery helps by resetting the body’s weight regulation system and reducing appetite, but sustained success depends on the patient’s adherence to new habits and a supportive care plan.
What are the common risks and complications of bariatric surgery?
As with any major surgery, bariatric procedures carry risks, including infection, blood clots, and bleeding. Specific to these surgeries, potential complications can include vitamin and mineral deficiencies, malnutrition, and the need for follow-up surgeries. Patients are carefully evaluated before surgery to minimize these risks, and a long-term follow-up plan is crucial for managing potential issues.
