What is Bariatric Surgery?

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Bariatric surgery (weight loss surgery) is a term used to describe surgical procedures that assist in weight loss. The procedures include gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, adjustable gastric band, and duodenal switch.

Bariatric surgery could be an option for you if: 

• You have a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 or higher
• You have a BMI of over 35 (obesity), and are experiencing weight-related health problems such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or sleep apnea
• You are more than 100 pounds over your ideal body weight, and are unable to achieve a healthy body weight (even through medically-supervised dieting)

Gastric Banding (Lap Band) Surgery

Gastric banding is a surgical procedure where a permanent silicone band is placed around the stomach. The band reduces the size of the stomach, without removing a portion of it.

Gastric Bypass

Gastric bypass surgery is the most commonly performed weight loss procedure. During the surgery, the size of the stomach is reduced, and part of the digestive system is re-routed (bypassed) to the small intestine.

Sleeve Gastronomy

Gastric sleeve surgery is the removal of a portion of the stomach, resulting in a reduction of the stomach's size. After this procedure, the remaining stomach is shaped like a sleeve.

After bariatric surgery, you will not be able to eat for 1-3 days. This break allows your stomach and digestive system to heal. Once you are cleared to eat, you will have to follow a specific diet for a couple of weeks. The diet starts with liquids only, progresses to purees, then very soft foods, and eventually to regular foods.

You will also have frequent medical checkups to monitor your health in the first several months. You may need laboratory testing, blood work, and other exams.

 The amount of weight you lose depends on the type of surgery you have, as well as your lifestyle habits. It may be possible to lose half or more of your excess weight within the first two years. 

Aside from noticeable weight loss, bariatric surgery may improve or resolve conditions often related to being overweight, including:

• Heart disease
• High blood pressure
• Sleep apnea
• Diabetes
• Joint pain
• Fatty liver disease
• GERD (Gastroesophageal reflux disease)

Risks associated with bariatric surgery can include:

• Excessive bleeding
• Infection
• Adverse reactions to anesthesia
• Blood clots
• Lung or breathing problems
• Leaks in your gastrointestinal system
• Death (rare)

Longer term risks and complications can include:

• Bowel obstruction
• Dumping syndrome
• Gallstones
• Hernias
• Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)
• Malnutrition
• Ulcers
• Vomiting
• Acid reflux
• The need for a second, or revision, surgery or procedure
• Death (rare)