Many physicians specialize in both aesthetic and weight loss surgery. Weight loss (bariatric) surgery is now considered a safe and effective way to reduce weight and combat the effects of obesity. Depending on your physical health and the number of pounds you want to lose, you may be a candidate for bariatric surgery. Here are some basic facts about weight loss surgery you can use to decide if surgery is right for you.
What Is Weight Loss Surgery?
Weight loss surgery is a type of gastrointestinal surgery that significantly reduces the amount of food you can consume by shrinking the stomach. There are many different types of bariatric surgery, but in general, they all accomplish the same goal. Bariatric procedures can be done laparoscopically (making a minimally invasive incision using surgical tools), or as a laparotomy (making a large incision in the abdomen).
General anesthesia is administered during both types of surgeries to control pain, and after surgery, you may need to spend the night or several days in the hospital. If you are interested in bariatric surgery, you should consult a physician who specializes in aesthetic surgery & weight loss surgery in Tampa.
Types of Weight Loss Surgery
Depending on the state of your health and how much weight you wish to lose, you may be a candidate for one or more types of bariatric surgery. Common types of bariatric surgery include:
- Adjustable gastric banding (lap band): A silicone gastric band is placed around a portion of the stomach, reducing its overall size without removing any portion of it. The procedure is typically done laparoscopically. A port is also placed underneath the skin so the band can be adjusted if needed.
- Gastric balloon: A deflated balloon is inserted into the stomach via the mouth using a flexible scope (endoscope). The balloon is then inflated to reduce the capacity of the stomach. The procedure is temporary, and the balloon is usually removed within six months.
- Gastric bypass: Gastric bypass surgery detaches the small intestine’s opening from the lower part of the stomach and re-attaches it to the upper part of the stomach. The procedure greatly reduces the amount of food the stomach can hold while reducing the amount of time the small intestine can hold food – this limits how much the body can absorb. The Roux-en-Y is the most common type of gastric bypass, and it involves removing a portion of the stomach in addition to the bypass.
- Sleeve gastrectomy: A section of the stomach is removed, reducing its overall size. Once the procedure is complete, the remainder of the stomach will typically be shaped like a sleeve.
Benefits of Weight Loss Surgery
As previously mentioned, all bariatric procedures serve the same purpose – to reduce the number of calories absorbed by the body. Bariatric surgery can offer numerous benefits, and often, it reverses the effects of obesity. Patients who undergo bariatric surgery often reverse conditions such as hypertension, type-2 diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and sleep apnea. Less severe conditions such as back pain and arthritis may also be relieved. In almost all cases, the benefits of bariatric surgery often outweigh the risks.
Discussing Weight Loss Surgery With Your Doctor
If you believe you are a candidate for weight loss surgery, you should speak to a physician. An experienced doctor with a track record of performing successful procedures can help you make an informed decision. They can help you take your current health into consideration and select a procedure that will be beneficial to you. You don’t have to make a decision about weight loss surgery on your own.
Weight loss surgery can be the right choice for many types of people. If you struggle with the effects of obesity and want a healthier life, bariatric surgery may be for you. Part of the weight loss journey is choosing a surgeon you feel comfortable with, so don’t hesitate to ask questions.
You Have Many Options to Choose From
Candidates for weight loss surgery will be pleased they have numerous options available to them. Depending on a variety of factors, undergoing bariatric surgery may be one of the best decisions you ever make.