Bariatric Surgery: Your Path to Lasting Weight Loss

Bariatric surgery is a life-changing option for individuals who have struggled with severe obesity and related health conditions. For those who have not found success with traditional weight loss methods, such as diet and exercise, bariatric surgery offers a sustainable solution. However, it’s a serious decision that requires careful consideration and commitment.

Understanding Bariatric Surgery

Bariatric surgery works by making changes to your digestive system, helping you lose weight by either restricting the amount of food you can eat or reducing nutrient absorption, or both. Common types of bariatric surgery include:

Gastric Bypass This procedure involves creating a small pouch from the stomach and connecting it directly to the small intestine. As a result, food bypasses most of the stomach and part of the small intestine, limiting calorie absorption.

Sleeve Gastrectomy In this surgery, a large portion of the stomach is removed, leaving a tube-like sleeve that reduces the amount of food you can consume. Adjustable Gastric Banding A band is placed around the upper part of the stomach to create a small pouch. This limits how much you can eat at one time.

Who Qualifies for Bariatric Surgery?

Individuals with a BMI (Body Mass Index) of 40 or higher.

Those with a BMI of 35-39.9 and a serious health condition related to obesity, such as diabetes or heart disease.

Patients must also demonstrate previous unsuccessful attempts at weight loss through non-surgical means.

The Benefits Beyond Weight Loss

Bariatric surgery doesn’t just help patients lose weight; it can also improve or resolve many obesity-related conditions, such as:

• Type 2 diabetes

• High blood pressure

• Sleep apnea

• Heart disease

Life After Bariatric Surgery

Post-surgery, patients will need to make lasting changes to their lifestyle, including their diet and physical activity. The success of the surgery is closely linked to the commitment to these changes. Surgical Connection provides access to specialists who will guide you through both the physical and emotional adjustments required after surgery.