What is Obesity Surgery?

What is Obesity Surgery?

Obesity surgery, also known as bariatric surgery, refers to surgical interventions performed to promote weight loss in individuals who are unable to achieve lasting results through diet and exercise alone. The primary goals are to improve overall health, reduce obesity-related disease risks, and enhance quality of life.

What is Bariatric Surgery?

Bariatric surgery involves reducing the size of the stomach or restructuring the digestive system to promote effective and sustained weight loss. It is typically recommended for individuals with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 35 or higher, especially if they suffer from obesity-related health conditions.

Goals of Obesity Surgery

• Reduce stomach capacity
• Limit nutrient absorption
• Control appetite and hunger hormones
• Accelerate and maintain weight loss

Who is a Candidate for Bariatric Surgery?

Candidates are evaluated based on BMI and overall health:

• BMI ≥ 40
• BMI 35–39.9 with comorbidities like diabetes or hypertension
• BMI 30–34.9 with unsuccessful weight loss from other methods
• Individuals physically and psychologically fit for surgery

Types of Bariatric Surgery

1. Sleeve Gastrectomy

• About 80% of the stomach is removed, leaving a tube-shaped pouch
• Reduces appetite and limits food intake
• Most commonly performed procedure

2. Gastric Bypass

• Stomach size is reduced and rerouted to the small intestine
• Limits absorption and promotes early satiety
• Effective in patients with type 2 diabetes or reflux

3. Mini Gastric Bypass

• A simplified and shorter version of gastric bypass
• Reduces nutrient absorption and accelerates weight loss

4. Gastric Balloon

• A temporary balloon placed endoscopically in the stomach
• Non-surgical, removed after 6 months
• Often used to prepare patients for surgery

5. Gastric Botox

• A 20-minute outpatient procedure
• Ideal for mild-to-moderate weight excess
• Not permanent; lasts 4–6 months and should be supported with diet

6. Metabolic Surgery

• Designed for individuals with BMI 30–35 and uncontrolled diabetes
• Improves insulin sensitivity and blood sugar regulation
• Performed laparoscopically

Preoperative Process

Medical Evaluation

• Blood tests
• Hormonal assessments
• Heart and lung exams
• Endoscopy and ultrasound

Psychological & Nutritional Support

• Mental preparation for lifestyle change
• Nutritional education and portion control guidance

How is Bariatric Surgery Performed?

• Usually performed laparoscopically (minimally invasive)
• Requires only small incisions for quicker recovery
• Procedure time: 1–4 hours
• Hospital stay: 2–5 days on average

Post-Surgery Diet Phases

• Week 1: Clear liquids
• Week 2: Pureed and soft foods
• Weeks 4–6: Transition to solid foods
• Ongoing: Small, frequent meals with portion control

Vitamin & Mineral Supplements

• Vitamin B12, D, iron, calcium, folic acid
• Doses adjusted through regular blood tests

Benefits of Bariatric Surgery

Significant and long-term weight loss
Improvement in diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea
Increased mobility
Enhanced confidence and mental health
Better cardiovascular health

Potential Risks & Complications

• Short-term: Infection, bleeding, leakage
• Long-term: Nutrient deficiencies, reflux, gallstones
• Rare (<1%): Nerve damage or transient paralysis
• With poor follow-up: Permanent health issues

Minimizing Risks

• Adhere to all medical check-ups
• Take prescribed supplements consistently
• Maintain balanced nutrition and regular exercise

Life After Bariatric Surgery

Surgery is only the beginning. A new lifestyle—featuring healthy eating, physical activity, psychological balance, and regular medical follow-ups—is essential for long-term success.

Individuals who successfully complete this process often overcome not only excess weight but also chronic disease risks, mobility limitations, and emotional burdens.

 

Conclusion

Bariatric surgery, when combined with proper patient selection and preparation, is a highly effective method to improve both physical and mental health. Collaborating with a multidisciplinary healthcare team—including surgeons, dietitians, and psychologists—greatly enhances success and ensures long-term well-being.