Bariatric surgery

Bariatric surgery encompasses all of the various operations which have been designed to cause a significant and long-lasting weight-loss in severely obese patients. Surgeons who specialize in treating obesity are known as Bariatric Surgeons. Bariatric surgery has been actively practiced by surgeons in the U.S. since the 1960’s. Recently, techniques in Laparoscopic and Minimally Invasive surgery have caused a dramatic increase in the number of weight loss surgeries being performed worldwide.

Weight loss (bariatric) surgery is a unique field, in that with one operation, a person can be potentially cured of numerous medical diseases including diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, sleep apnea, chronic headaches, venous stasis disease, urinary incontinence, liver disease, and arthritis. Bariatric surgery is the only proven method that results in durable weight loss. This proven surgical approach, combined with the dismal failure of dieting, the marked improvement in quality of life and the quick recovery with minimally invasive techniques, has fueled the surge in the number of bariatric procedures performed annually over the last 10 years.

Surgery for the treatment of obesity is only appropriate for those individuals who are considered Morbidly Obese. Because of the possible risks and complications of surgery, it is not appropriate for individuals who do not meet these criteria to undergo weight-loss surgery.

Patients with a BMI of 40 or greater
Patients with BMI of 35 or greater who also suffer from a severe medical condition related to obesity (sleep apnea, diabetes, heart failure, high blood pressure)
A patient who is prepared and willing to commit to the lifestyle changes that will be necessary following surgery.
They should have no known endocrine (glandular) or metabolic causes for their severe obesity.
They should be of sound mind to understand the risks of the operation and the commitment which is necessary to be successful.
They should be able to commit to regular follow-up visits with their doctor, as well as a sound diet and exercise program after surgery.
Candidates need to have attempted medical weight loss treatments without success.

Weight loss operations can be divided into restrictive procedures and malabsorptive procedures. Malabsorptive procedures reduce the absorption of calories, proteins and other nutrients. In contrast, restrictive operations decrease food intake and promote a feeling of fullness (satiety) after meals. Some operations are a combination of both. The gastric bypass (open and laparoscopic), the laparoscopic adjustable band, sleeve gastroplasty and the biliopancreatic diversion (with or without the duodenal switch) are the primary procedures used currently.

What can you do to learn more about bariatric surgery?
The Admert Obesity Support group (AOSG), a non profit patient-based organization, offers those affected by obesity many valuable resources to begin educating themselves about the disease and advocating for access to safe and effective treatment. From tips to about weight loss to, the most current information on obesity and its treatments, the AOSG provides individuals with the tools needed to take a proactive approach in the fight against obesity. For more information, please contact us at (91) 98410 41141