Weight loss surgery offers a solution for people struggling with obesity when other methods haven’t worked. These procedures may help you lose weight by changing how your digestive system works. Here’s how each type of surgery has different benefits and risks, so understanding your options helps you make the best choice for your health:
What Is Gastric Bypass?
Gastric bypass surgery creates a small pouch from your stomach and connects it directly to your small intestine. This procedure works in two ways. First, the smaller stomach pouch limits how much food you eat. Second, bypassing part of your intestine reduces how many calories your body absorbs.
Most people lose 60-80% of their excess weight within two years after gastric bypass. The surgery also improves diabetes, high blood pressure, and sleep apnea in many patients. Recovery takes several weeks, and you’ll need to follow a special diet for life. You’ll need regular blood tests and vitamin supplements to stay healthy.
What Is BPD/DS Surgery?
Biliopancreatic Diversion with Duodenal Switch (BPD/DS) is a type of weight loss surgery. During the procedure, surgeons remove part of your stomach and reroute your intestines to limit the amount of food you can eat. This surgery provides the most significant weight loss results, but is also more complex.
The procedure preserves the valve between your stomach and small intestine, which helps prevent the symptoms of dumping syndrome. You will likely need to take vitamins and mineral supplements long-term. Protein deficiency is typical, so it’s wise to eat protein-rich foods every day.
Are There Less Invasive Options?
Several less invasive procedures exist for weight loss. Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG) doesn’t require surgical incisions. Instead, doctors insert sutures through your mouth, thereby reducing the size of your stomach.
The gastric balloon procedure involves placing a deflated balloon in your stomach and filling it with saline. This balloon takes up space and makes you feel full faster. The balloon stays in place for six months, then doctors remove it. These procedures cause less weight loss than traditional surgeries. ESG is designed to help people lose weight. Recovery time may be shorter, but the procedures may not work as well for severe obesity.
Who Qualifies for Surgery?
Weight loss surgery may not be right for everyone. Doctors look at several factors when deciding if you’re a good candidate. Your body mass index (BMI) is the first thing to check. Surgeons typically require a BMI of 40 or higher, or 35 or higher, with serious health problems like diabetes. You must have tried other weight loss methods without success. This includes diet programs, exercise plans, and medications. Doctors may want to see that you’ve made serious efforts to lose weight before surgery.
You’ll meet with a psychologist to discuss your relationship with food and your expectations. Some people eat due to mental problems, which surgery alone won’t fix. You need to be prepared to make permanent changes to your eating habits. Medical conditions affect your eligibility. Heart disease, lung problems, or other serious illnesses may make surgery too risky. Your doctor will run tests to make sure you’re healthy enough for the procedure.
Find Weight Loss Surgery Solutions
Weight loss surgery is available, but your success depends on choosing the correct procedure and following your doctor’s advice. Different types of surgery offer various benefits and risks. Talk to a surgeon about your options. They can help you understand which procedure best suits your health needs and lifestyle. Achieving long-term success requires ongoing changes to your eating habits and regular medical check-ups.
