Weight loss surgeries, also known as bariatric surgeries, are medical procedures designed to help individuals achieve significant weight loss when traditional methods such as diet and exercise have not been successful. These surgeries work by altering the digestive system to limit food intake or absorption, leading to substantial and sustained weight loss.
Gastric sleeve surgery involves the removal of approximately 80% of the stomach, resulting in a tube- or sleeve-shaped stomach that significantly restricts food intake. This procedure not only limits the amount of food that can be consumed but also induces hormonal changes that reduce hunger and increase feelings of fullness. Patients typically experience significant weight loss over a year or two, leading to improvements in obesity-related conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and obstructive sleep apnea.
Lap-Band surgery involves placing an adjustable band around the upper part of the stomach to create a small pouch. This restricts the amount of food that the stomach can hold, helping to reduce overall food intake. The band can be adjusted to increase or decrease the restriction, providing flexibility in achieving weight loss goals. This procedure is less invasive and reversible, but it requires a strong commitment to lifestyle changes and regular follow-up appointments for band adjustments.
Gastric bypass surgery, or Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, involves creating a small pouch from the stomach and connecting it directly to the small intestine, bypassing a significant portion of the stomach and the first segment of the small intestine. This reduces the amount of food that can be eaten and absorbed, leading to significant weight loss. The procedure also causes beneficial hormonal changes that contribute to weight loss and improve obesity-related conditions.
Bariatric surgery, also known as weight loss surgery, is a medical procedure designed to assist individuals struggling with obesity. The surgery helps by reducing the stomach's capacity or altering the digestive tract, thereby limiting food intake and nutrient absorption, leading to significant weight loss.
The gastric balloon procedure is a minimally invasive weight loss treatment designed to assist patients in losing weight by placing a balloon inside the stomach. The balloon takes up space, making the stomach feel fuller and thereby reducing the amount of food the patient consumes. The procedure is typically recommended for patients with a BMI of 30 to 40 who have struggled with traditional weight loss methods. Gastric balloon options include 6-month and 12-month versions, which are gradually removed after the prescribed duration.
