What is Bariatric Surgery?

Assisted weight loss commonly refers to bariatric surgery, bariatric weight loss, and medical weight loss procedures. They each have distinct meanings. Bariatric surgery and weight loss surgery refer to surgical interventions aimed at assisting individuals with higher body weight.

Bariatric Weight Loss Procedure Overview

Typically, these procedures involve reducing stomach size or altering the digestive system to limit calorie absorption. Such as: Gastric Sleeve, Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass, Laparoscopic Duodenal Switch Surgery (LDS), Single Anastomosis Duodenal-Ileal Bypass (SADI), Single Anastomosis Sleeve Ileal Bypass (SASI) and Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Band (LAGB) or Lap-Band

Bariatric Weight Loss Procedures Benefits

Certainly, bariatric surgery helps individuals with higher body weight. In particular when other methods like diet and exercise have failed. Besides this, they often face serious health issues related to their weight. For instance:

Sleep apnea.
Type 2 diabetes.
High blood pressure.
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).
Increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and cancer.

Though, research indicates that once an individual’s BMI reaches a certain point, losing enough weight. Then to achieve a healthy BMI without medical intervention becomes unlikely. On the other side, bariatric surgery, combined with dietary changes and increased physical activity. Evidently, lowers BMI and frequently reduces or eliminates weight-related health issues like type 2 diabetes.

Bariatric Surgery - Types

Many bariatric surgeries involve removing a portion of the stomach, typically around 70-80%, to restrict food intake. Surgeons call it a restrictive technique. Alternatively, some surgeries reorganize the digestive system to limit nutrient and calorie absorption, termed a malabsorptive technique. Certain bariatric surgeries combine both approaches.

Sleeve Gastroplasty or Gastric Sleeve

This surgery is a restrictive technique that surgically reduces the size of the stomach, limiting food intake.

Gastric Bypass

It involves both restrictive and malabsorptive techniques. In detail, includes both a reduction in stomach size and alterations to the digestive system.

Duodenal Switch

It reduces the size of the stomach alters two parts of the digestive system. Also uses both restrictive and malabsorptive techniques.

Gastric Band

It involves the surgical installation of an adjustable belt-like device. Especially, at the top of the stomach to limit the intake of food. Later, the surgeon can adjust the belt to control the size of the stomach opening. To point out, gastric band surgery utilizes the restrictive technique for weight loss.

Gastric Balloon

Made of soft silicone, this device placed endoscopically into the patient’s stomach to control portion size.

Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG)

Surgeons perform this non-surgical alternative to popular gastric sleeve surgery endoscopically. In other words, an endoscopic suturing device inserts into the patient’s stomach. To reduce its size by 70-80%.

Who is the Candidate for Bariatric Surgery?

Candidates for bariatric surgery include individuals with a BMI of 40 or higher. As well as those with a BMI of 35 or higher who have weight-related health issues. Whereas, non-surgical bariatric weight loss procedures may be suitable for individuals. Comparatively, have lower BMI numbers or those who cannot undergo surgery for various reasons. Regardless, to find out if you qualify, take our 1-minute quiz.

What to Expect from Bariatric Surgery?

Before Surgery

We will guide you on preparing for your upcoming surgery. You may need to complete lab work and adjust your medications beforehand. Additionally, you may undergo a diet and exercise plan for up to three months before the surgery. Usually, patients need to follow a liver-shrinking diet about two weeks before the procedure.

During Surgery

Your surgery will take place in a hospital or surgical center under general anesthesia. The specifics of your surgery will depend. Particularly on the type of surgery you’re having, the surgeon’s preferences, and any unique circumstances in your case. Surgeons typically perform most bariatric surgeries laparoscopically, making small incisions in the abdomen. However, in rare cases, open surgery may be necessary. Requiring a larger incision and a longer recovery time.

After Surgery

After surgery, you will spend hours in recovery, unable to eat or drink until the next day. Medical staff will encourage early movement to prevent blood clots. Depending on your surgery and any issues, you’ll stay in the hospital for one to three days. Upon discharge, you will receive detailed post-op instructions. These cover wound care, hygiene, and activities. Your diet will progress gradually, monitored by the weight loss center. Regular follow-ups and support sessions will promote faster recovery.

Bariatric Weight Loss Surgery – Before and After Transformation

Gastric bypass and other bariatric weight loss surgeries can lead to significant weight loss. Importantly, the extent of weight loss and the ability to maintain it largely depends. On the patient’s dedication and commitment to ongoing lifestyle changes. Additionally, bariatric surgery often improves or eliminates obesity-related health conditions within just three months after surgery. Beyond health improvements, bariatric surgery can boost energy levels and enhance the quality of life. Finally, the activities that were previously difficult or impossible become much easier and more manageable.

Bariatric Surgery – Important Considerations

Every major surgery carries risks, and bariatric surgery is no exception, with both short-term and long-term health risks possible. However, choosing a highly-skilled, board-certified surgeon. Subsequently, strictly follow all pre- and post-procedure instructions. Coupled with dietary guidelines can significantly minimize these risks.

Bariatric Surgery – Associated Risks

The complications and long-term risks can vary depending on the specific procedure and the patient’s health. Bariatric surgery, like any major procedure, comes with potential risks:

Bleeding.
Infection.
Deep vein thrombosis.
Gastrointestinal leaks.
Adverse reactions to anesthesia.
Breathing difficulties or lung issues.

Bariatric Surgery – Long-Term Complications

To minimize these risks, our board-certified bariatric surgeon will thoroughly assess your case. Bariatric surgery can lead to several long-term complications, including:

Ulcers.
Hernias.
Vomiting.
Gallstones.
Acid reflux.
Malnutrition.
Hypoglycemia.
Bowel obstruction.
Dumping syndrome, which often includes diarrhea and lightheadedness.

Bariatric Surgery - Cost

The cost of bariatric surgery depends on several factors, including medical examinations, surgeon’s fees, hospital charges, post-surgery garments, and anesthesia. Additionally, the specific techniques used and the total time required for the surgery will influence the overall cost.

Arrange Your Consultation Today

If you have any questions about bariatric surgery or pricing details in Tampa Bay, FL. Call us at (727) 868-4490 or schedule your consultation. Additionally, you can join our free online bariatric seminar to learn more about the procedures.