What Is Bariatric Surgery & How It Works

Bariatric surgery and how it works. (Image via Pexels/Anna Shvets)
Bariatric surgery and how it works. (Image via Pexels/Anna Shvets)

Bariatric surgery is a type of weight loss surgery that involves altering the digestive system to help people lose weight. The surgery works by changing how the digestive system functions, which can help people feel fuller more quickly and reduce the number of calories their body absorbs.

The surgery can involve reducing the size of the stomach or rerouting the small intestine. Bariatric surgery is generally recommended for people who have been unable to lose weight through other methods and experience serious health problems related to their weight.

It's important to remember that this surgery is a major procedure and should be considered carefully with the help of a healthcare professional.


Types of Bariatric Surgery

Bariatric surgery (Image via Pexels/Andres Ayrton)
Bariatric surgery (Image via Pexels/Andres Ayrton)

Bariatric surgery is a powerful tool for those struggling with obesity who have been unable to lose weight through other methods.

There are several types of bariatric weight loss surgery, each of which works in slightly different ways to help patients achieve their weight loss goals. Here are the various types:

Gastric bypass surgery

It's one of the most common types of bariatric surgery and involves dividing the stomach and rerouting the small intestine to reduce the number of calories the body absorbs.

The procedure is highly effective in helping patients lose weight. Many experience improvements in other health conditions such as type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure.

Adjustable gastric banding

It involves placing an inflatable band around the stomach to create a smaller pouch, which reduces the amount of food that can be eaten. This procedure is reversible and adjustable, making it a good option for patients who may want to modify the level of restriction over time.

Sleeve gastrectomy

It involves removing a large portion of the stomach and creating a smaller, sleeve-shaped stomach that limits the amount of food that can be eaten. This procedure is less invasive than gastric bypass surgery and can be a good option for patients with lower BMI.

Biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch

It involves removing a large portion of the stomach and rerouting the small intestine to reduce the number of nutrients absorbed by the body. This procedure is typically reserved for patients with a BMI over 50 or those with severe health conditions.

While this surgery can be a life-changing tool for weight loss, it's important to remember that surgery alone is not a quick fix. To achieve long-lasting success, it's important to remember that leading a healthy lifestyle with a nutritious diet and suitable health regime are essential components of any healthy weight loss workout.


Is Bariatric Surgery safe?

Types of bariatric surgery. (Image via Pexels/Vidal Balielo Jr.)
Types of bariatric surgery. (Image via Pexels/Vidal Balielo Jr.)

This surgery can be an effective tool for those struggling with obesity, but many people wonder about the safety of the procedure. The good news is that the surgery is generally considered safe, but it's important to understand the potential risks and complications:

Potential Health Risks

The risks of bariatric surgery vary depending on the type of procedure and the patient's individual health status.

Common risks include bleeding, infection, and blood clots, but serious complications like leaks and bowel obstruction can also occur. It's important to work closely with a healthcare provider to understand the potential risks and develop a plan for managing any complications that may arise.

Despite the potential risks, the surgery can be a safe and effective option for those struggling with obesity. Many patients experience significant improvements in their overall health, including reduction in risk of chronic conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and sleep apnea.

To ensure the best possible outcome, it's important to carefully follow post-operative instructions, attend follow-up appointments, and make the necessary lifestyle changes. By working closely with healthcare providers and committing to a healthy lifestyle, those who undergo this surgery can enjoy long-lasting weight loss and improved health.

While surgeries are a popular tool for weight loss, it's important to remember that lifestyle changes are an essential part of any successful weight loss journey. Many healthcare providers recommend that patients make changes to their diet and exercise habits before and after surgery to help maximize the benefits of the procedure.

Learn more about how diet can help with weight loss.


What can disqualify you from Bariatric Surgery?

Bariatric surgery is not for everyone. (Image via Pexels/Sofi)
Bariatric surgery is not for everyone. (Image via Pexels/Sofi)

While this surgery is a popular choice among people struggling with obesity to achieve significant and long-lasting weight loss, not everyone is a good candidate for it.

There are several factors that can disqualify someone from undergoing this surgery, like mental health issues, substance abuse, pregnancy, age, medical conditions, and inability to make lifestyle changes.

It's important to consult a qualified healthcare provider to determine if this surgery is a good option for you, and to discuss alternative weight loss options if you're not a good candidate for this surgery.

By adopting a healthy lifestyle that includes having a balanced diet and staying physically active, you can achieve sustainable weight loss and improve your overall health without relying on surgical procedures like bariatric surgery.