What Is Bariatric Weight Loss Surgery?

Bariatric surgery is a term used to collectively describe a variety of weight-loss procedures, including gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy. In these treatments, surgical changes are made to your digestive system in order to help patients lose large amounts of weight. Bariatric surgical procedures can cause weight loss in a number of ways, be it by limiting the capacity of the stomach, causing malabsorption of nutrients, causing hormonal changes to the digestive system, or a combination of these factors. Bariatric surgery is typically done when men have severe obesity and it has become potentially life-threatening, and other attempts at weight loss have failed.

How Is Bariatric Weight Loss Surgery Performed?

As bariatric surgery is an umbrella term, there are multiple ways in which these weight-loss procedures are performed. The most common among these is the Roux-en Y Gastric Bypass. During this procedure, the stomach is divided into two “pouches,” one smaller than the other, and the small intestine is reconnected to this smaller portion. The procedure functionally shrinks the size of the stomach, causing food to bypass the majority of the stomach. This redirection of digestion promotes significant reduction in appetite, in addition to causing changes in gut hormones. Another common bariatric procedure is the Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy (often simply called “the sleeve”), which involves the removal of approximately 80% of the stomach.

There are a variety of other bariatric procedures that can be performed. During your initial consultation with Dr. Steinbrech, you will discuss which procedure is appropriate for you.

Preparation For Bariatric Weight Loss Surgery

Bariatric weight loss surgeries are typically in-patient procedures that may require some days of recovery in the hospital. As such, an important part of preparation is to plan ahead for any help you may need around the house in the weeks following the surgery. A certain physical exercise program may be prescribed in the weeks leading up to surgery, and candidates will need to cease use of tobacco products. Preparation may include restrictions on certain food, drink and medication. Always follow the instructions provided by your doctor in the lead-up to any surgical procedure to ensure the best outcomes.

Who Is a Good Candidate For Bariatric Weight Loss Surgery?

Bariatric weight loss surgery is meant for men with severe obesity, and those with certain life-threatening health issues. Certain medical prerequisites may need to be met in order for you to qualify for bariatric surgery. Medical screenings and consultations with Dr. Steinbrech will establish whether you are eligible for bariatric surgery. These will also determine which specific surgery is the best option for you.

Bariatric surgeries are not long-term solutions when permanent lifestyle changes are not implemented. In the aftermath of bariatric surgery, the maintenance of a proper diet and exercise regimen is extremely important in keeping yourself at a healthy weight, so patients should be prepared to make permanent changes to their behavior.

Bariatric Surgery Is a Good Option If You:

• Have a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 or higher
• Your BMI is between 35 and 39.9 with the presence of certain health conditions (including heart disease, sleep apnea, diabetes or high blood pressure).
• Are prepared to make lasting lifestyle changes to maintain a healthy weight

What Can I Expect From Bariatric Recovery?

The specifics of your bariatric recovery depend in large part on individual circumstances. Of course, different procedures require different recovery times and methods. Nowadays, most bariatric surgeries are performed laparoscopically, which means that surgery will be completed with the aid of a tiny camera attached to a small tube. This allows the surgeon to avoid making large, open incisions and generally reduces recovery time. Nevertheless, most patients remain in the hospital for two to three days. Normal activities can generally be resumed within five weeks.

Schedule a Consultation For Bariatric Surgery Today

To learn more about bariatric treatment options, please contact Dr. Douglas Steinbrech, and schedule your consultation today. Dr. Steinbrech and his staff look forward to meeting you and discussing your weight-loss goals.

Want to learn more about excess skin removal after bariatric weight loss? Please contact our office or call to speak to a Patient Advisor.

 
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