An introductory guide from our Denton and Prosper, Texas bariatric surgery team
What is bariatric surgery and how does it work?
Bariatric surgery refers to any surgical procedure that physically alters components of the digestive system (such as the stomach and the small intestine) to synthesize weight loss. There are several types of bariatric surgeries — including Roux-en-y gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, and adjustable gastric banding— that each accomplish permanent weight through a different technique. Meeting with a bariatric surgeon can help you determine which surgery may be best for you.
Bariatric surgeries are often performed as laparoscopic procedures, which have many benefits, including greater precision, reduced risk of injury or complication, and reduced patient recovery time. Laparoscopic bariatric surgeries utilize a small camera and surgical tools inserted through tiny incisions to alter components of the digestive system and achieve desired weight loss results.
Am I a good candidate for bariatric surgery?
If you are struggling with chronic obesity and have yet to find success losing weight or keeping the weight off, you are likely a good candidate for bariatric surgery. To best determine whether bariatric surgery is right for you, as well as which surgery may be best in your case, it is important to meet with a bariatric surgeon for a consultation and medical examination. In general, ideal candidates for bariatric surgery are those who meet the following criteria.
- Medically obese, or struggling with a medical weight-related condition, such as type 2 diabetes
- Knowledgeable of the risks and benefits of bariatric surgery
- Willing to adjust eating habits following the surgery
- Committed to making lifestyle changes to keep the weight off
Bariatric surgery: benefits and risks
While bariatric surgery has several benefits — including diet suppression and permanent weight loss — it can also come with a number of risks and side effects. Common side effects experienced following bariatric surgery include nausea, vomiting, bloating, diarrhea, excessive sweating, increased gas, and dizziness. Long-term symptoms may include dumping syndrome, a condition in which food passes too quickly through the small intestine, which, in turn, is characterized by symptoms of nausea, vomiting, and weakness. Avoiding high-sugar foods and replacing them with high-fiber foods can help prevent dumping syndrome.
Gallstones may also form when weight is lost quickly after bariatric surgery. To help prevent this, your surgeon may prescribe you bile salts for 6 months following surgery. It always important to maintain a healthy diet after bariatric surgery. Since rapid weight loss and nutritional deficiencies can harm a developing baby, doctors typically advise women of childbearing age who receive bariatric surgery to avoid pregnancy until their weight has stabilized. These are a summary of the benefits and risks as your bariatric surgeon will discuss all of them with you prior to surgery.
Are you a good candidate for bariatric surgery? Call 877-421-8183 today.