Bariatric surgery is a safe and dependable way to try to conquer your weight issues. While many people are aware of the impact that bariatric surgery can have on someone’s weight, it can be hard to know if you should get a procedure yourself. So what are the specific bariatric surgery types, and which one is best for you?
Gastric Sleeve
Gastric sleeve surgery reduces the space in your stomach, making you feel full after eating much smaller meals. This procedure removes about 80-85% of your stomach and is not reversible, so it requires careful consideration before making the decision. It’s a life-changing surgery, and with proper exercise and diet practices, people typically lose 60% of their excess weight over 12-18 months.
In addition to promoting weight loss, gastric sleeve surgery can help resolve comorbidities such as Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, and high cholesterol.
Gastric Bypass
Gastric bypass surgery is the oldest and most common bariatric surgery types. This is partially due to its success rates and permanent weight changes many patients experience. So how does it work? Gastric bypass assists in weight loss by reducing calorie absorption and suppressing hunger.
The success rate for gastric bypass surgeries is very high, but it also has a very low complication rate as it is done laparoscopically. The procedure involves creating a small pouch at the top of the stomach, roughly the size of a walnut, which is then connected directly to the small intestine. This bypasses the rest of the stomach, ultimately assisting in the hunger suppression and reduced calorie absorption.
Lap-Band Adjustments
In a Lap-Band adjustment surgery, a doctor places an adjustable band around the upper portion of the stomach, restricting food intake to just 6-8 ounces at a time. As food enters the lower portion of the stomach more slowly, it triggers a quicker sense of fullness and helps maintain that feeling for an extended period.
A Lap-Band adjustment allows for a quick and easy recovery, but requires continual check-ups to adjust the band if needed based on your diet and weight-loss goals.
This surgery is a great option for people who are wanting to lose weight to help their overall health, but don’t want a permanent surgery. Lap-Band adjustments are completely reversible if complications happen to arise.
SADI Surgery
Another bariatric surgery type is SADI Surgery. SADI stands for Single Anastomosis Duodenal Switch. While that sounds like a lot it just means bypassing a portion of the small intestine to reduce calorie absorption and limit hunger, similar to gastric bypass. SADI surgery is a long-term weight loss solution that has a reduced risk of malnutrition.
Like gastric bypass, surgeons perform SADI surgeries laparoscopically, which makes recovery easier and reduces the risk of complications. Your surgery team will also help you create diet plans for post-surgery recovery and long-term maintenance.
Which bariatric surgery is best for me?
Many times diet and exercise are not enough to reach your weight loss goals. Bariatric surgery is not meant for cosmetic change, but a complete change in your health for the better so you can live your life to its fullest. While deciding on which bariatric surgery to get can be overwhelming, your bariatric team is ready to assist you in your journey.
It is important to take into account your medical history, diet and exercise routines, and if you are wanting a reversible procedure or not.
If you’re ready to make a major change to your health and body, bariatric surgery could be the right solution for you! Call West Texas Bariatrics today to start your journey today!
