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Bariatric surgery is a type of surgery to help severely overweight or obese to lose weight by changing how their digestive system works and helping them achieve significant and sustained weight loss. Many popularly call it obesity or weight loss surgery. An individual will be referred to undergo this surgery only if he or she has a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 35 or more and has other comorbidities which are mostly obesity-related. The health conditions that may be associated with obesity include high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, liver and kidney problems, heart conditions, PCOS, sleep apnea, and more. No matter what, best bariatric surgeons in Millers Road, Bangalore will first advise the patient to undergo a weight maintenance program (diet and exercise) for a few months. If there is no success and weight loss is not achieved, they would be suggested bariatric surgery as the final option. In this blog, we’ll discuss the various types of bariatric surgery and explore the benefits, risks, and aftercare of Bariatric surgery.
Bariatric Surgery Types
Gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, and mini gastric bypass are relatively known to be the three most common types of bariatric surgery. Gastric bypass surgery is the most popular out of all three and has a name for helping patients reduce up to 80% of excess weight loss.
Gastric Bypass
Gastric bypass surgery is a type of bariatric surgery that involves creating a small stomach pouch. This pouch is directly connected to the small intestine and bypasses a portion of the stomach and small intestine. This surgery limits the amount of food and calories the body can consume which means the patient feels full sooner. It is also referred to as Roux y gastric bypass surgery and is the most common type of weight-loss surgery.
Gastric Sleeve Surgery
Gastric sleeve surgery AKA Sleeve gastrectomy is a weight loss surgery used to reduce the size of the stomach. The surgery involves removing a large portion of the stomach, leaving a thin vertical sleeve reattached to the small intestine. This surgery helps reduce a significant amount of weight within months post the procedure.
Mini Gastric Bypass
In this procedure, a long, narrow stomach pouch is created by rerouting the small intestine to the new pouch. The incisions used for mini gastric bypass surgery are typically smaller and as a result, the recovery is quicker and the scars are less.
The Pros of Bariatric Surgery
Bariatric surgery not only helps overweight or obese people to lose weight, but it also improves their overall health. Let us see what benefits weight loss surgery can bring to patients:
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Weight Loss
Studies have shown that bariatric surgery is a long-lasting way to lose significant weight for people who are severely obese.
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Improved Quality of Life
Weight loss can improve an individual’s quality of life by allowing them to participate in previously difficult or impossible activities due to their excessive weight. This helps people come out of their insecurity, thereby increasing socialization and improving relationships.
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Reduced Risk of Obesity-Related Diseases
This surgery can help to reduce the risk of obesity-related health issues such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, blood pressure, stroke, sleep apnea, a few types of cancers, and PCOS.
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Improved Mental Health
Bariatric surgery can improve an individual’s overall mental health by boosting their self-esteem and self-confidence. This can help reduce depression and anxiety that are linked to overweight or obesity.
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Reduced Risk of Premature Death
Bariatric surgery has been shown to help reduce the likelihood of premature death due to obesity-related health problems.
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Early recovery
Since bariatric surgery is a minimally invasive procedure, it has significant advantages such as reduced pain, shorter hospital stays, and fewer body scars. The patients typically are discharged the next day of surgery and can go back to normal life after 3 days.
Are there any Cons of Bariatric Surgery?
While bariatric surgery can benefit those who are overweight or obese, we can’t deny the fact that any procedure can cause risks and complications. Some patients may have common side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, etc. which will go away once the recovery program starts. Others may experience nutritional deficiencies, infections, and/or weight regain.
All these risks and complications will be taken care of with a planned aftercare and recovery program under the supervision of the bariatric surgeon and dietician.
Aftercare and Recovery Following Bariatric Surgery
Aftercare and post suregery recovery at the best bariatric surgery hospital in Millers Road, Bangalore focuses on these key factors in ensuring successful weight loss. Some of the steps that individuals should take include:
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Following the Doctor’s Instructions
Following the doctor’s instructions regarding diet and activity levels is vital to ensure proper healing and weight loss.
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Eating a Healthy Diet
It is important to eat a healthy diet high in protein and low in fat and sugar to ensure proper healing and weight loss.
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Taking Vitamins and Supplements
It is important to take vitamins and supplements as the doctor recommends to prevent nutritional deficiencies.
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Exercising Regularly
Regular exercise is important to ensure proper healing and maintain weight loss.
Some frequently asked questions abot the surgery and their respective answers are following:
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Is Bariatric Surgery Safe?
Bariatric surgery is a minimally invasive procedure and hence is quite safe and effective. However, before undergoing any surgery, you should always speak to your doctor and gain a better understanding of the procedure and comprehensive recovery care.
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How much Weight can I Lose with Bariatric Surgery?
Usually, people who undergo weight loss surgery can lose up to 80 to 90% of their excess body weight. It depends on their lifestyle and eating habits post-surgery.
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