What is Bariatric Surgery?

Many overweight and obese people find that exercising and dieting does not help with losing weight. Despite all that struggle, they still remain overweight and unhappy with their bodies. In these cases, the best way to get rid of excess weight and become fit is by undergoing a weight-loss surgical procedure known as bariatric surgery. This operation is performed on overweight and obese people to help them lose weight, improve their health and even extend their lives.

The primary principle behind bariatric surgery is to reduce food intake and decrease the absorption of food by the stomach and intestines. Bariatric surgery alters the digestion process so that there is a reduction in the absorption of calories and nutrients, which enables the person to lose weight.

Bariatric surgery also helps to treat diseases like diabetes mellitus and hence is also called as metabolic surgery.

What does Bariatric Surgery involve?

There are different types of bariatric surgeries and your doctor will select the most suitable technique depending on your condition. The four types of bariatric surgery are:

• Adjustable gastric banding (AGB)
• Vertical sleeve gastrectomy (VSG)
• Biliopancreatic diversion with a duodenal switch (BPD-DS)
• Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB)

Bariatric surgery can be performed through an “open” approach where an incision is made in your abdomen to access your stomach. It can also be performed using laparoscopy, where a laparoscope is inserted into your abdomen through small incisions. Most bariatric surgery procedures performed today are laparoscopic as it involves fewer risks and faster recovery periods.

Is Bariatric Surgery effective?

Doctors specialising in obesity consider bariatric surgery the most effective treatment for overweight and obese people. With obesity quickly becoming a global issue, more and more people are undergoing bariatric surgery. The results of this operation are long-term and can be very satisfying. It will take you a while to notice a considerable drop in weight, but bariatric surgery can help you stay slim and healthy. It is important to follow a healthy diet and regular exercise regimes after undergoing bariatric surgery to continue enjoying its results.