What Is Bariatric Surgery?

Bariatric surgery is a medical procedure performed to aid in weight loss by making changes to the digestive system. These surgeries are not merely cosmetic, they are crucial for reducing the risks associated with severe obesity, including heart disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes.

When to Consider Bariatric Surgery

Deciding on bariatric surgery is a big step and should be made after careful consultation with healthcare professionals.

Here are some scenarios where you might consider bariatric surgery:

Surgery operation

  • If you have a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher or are more than 100 pounds overweight.

  • If you have a BMI of 35 or higher and suffer from obesity-related health issues like type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or sleep apnea.

  • If traditional methods of weight loss, like diet and exercise, have failed to yield significant or sustainable results.

  • If you are seeking to improve your overall quality of life and reduce obesity-related health risks.

  • If you’re willing to commit to a lifelong change in eating habits, diet, and exercise.

Types of Bariatric Surgeries

Bariatric surgery includes procedures aimed at significant weight loss, addressing both health concerns and quality of life improvements.

The most common types of bariatric surgeries include:

1. Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass

Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass is a highly effective bariatric surgery procedure primarily aimed at achieving significant weight loss. It involves creating a small pouch from the top portion of the stomach and directly connecting it to the small intestine.

This effectively bypasses a large part of the stomach and a segment of the small intestine. The result is a dramatic reduction in the functional volume of the stomach, accompanied by an altered physiological response to food.

This procedure not only limits the amount of food that can be consumed at any one time but also significantly impacts the absorption of calories and nutrients, leading to substantial weight loss. Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass is particularly effective for patients with severe obesity and is known to improve or resolve conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and sleep apnea.

2. Gastric Sleeve (Sleeve Gastrectomy)

Gastric Sleeve, or Sleeve Gastrectomy, is another popular bariatric surgery that involves the removal of a significant portion of the stomach, approximately 75-80%, leaving a narrow tube or 'sleeve'. This procedure drastically reduces the size of the stomach, limiting food intake and promoting a feeling of fullness much sooner than before. Unlike gastric bypass, it doesn't involve rerouting the intestines. The smaller stomach size also causes changes in gut hormones that aid in weight loss.

This surgery is particularly beneficial for those who are significantly overweight and have struggled with other weight loss methods. It's known to be effective in improving type 2 diabetes and reducing the risk of other obesity-related health problems. Additionally, the procedure is less complex than gastric bypass and generally has a shorter hospital stay.

Slim woman with marks on body

Benefits of Bariatric Surgeries

Bariatric surgery offers many benefits beyond weight loss such as:

  • Significantly reduces the risk of obesity-related diseases like type 2 diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, and more.

  • Many patients experience a boost in self-esteem and a decrease in symptoms of depression.

  • Weight loss can lead to improved mobility and less joint pain.

  • Studies suggest that bariatric surgery can lead to a longer life expectancy for obese individuals.

  • Encourages a healthier lifestyle with improved diet and physical activity.

How to Prepare for Bariatric Surgery?

Preparing for bariatric surgery involves several steps to ensure you're physically and mentally ready for the procedure and the lifestyle changes it brings. Here's a guide to help you get ready:

1. Medical Evaluation and Consultations

  • Consult with a bariatric surgeon: Discuss the various bariatric surgery options, understand the risks and benefits, and determine the best procedure for your situation.

  • Undergo medical assessments: Complete necessary lab tests and physical examinations to assess your health status and suitability for surgery.

2. Nutritional Counseling

  • Meet with a dietitian: Learn about the dietary changes required before and after surgery. This includes understanding portion sizes, nutrient intake, and meal planning.

  • Pre-surgery diet: You may be advised to follow a specific diet to reduce fat around the liver and spleen, usually a high-protein, low-calorie diet.

3. Psychological Evaluation

  • Mental health assessment: Ensure you are mentally prepared for the surgery and the significant lifestyle changes it will bring.

  • Counseling sessions: Address any emotional eating habits and develop strategies for post-surgery challenges.

4. Physical Preparation

  • Regular exercise: Start a regular exercise routine as recommended by your healthcare provider to improve fitness levels before surgery.

  • Quit smoking: If you smoke, you'll need to quit, as smoking can increase surgery risks and slow down the healing process.

5. Understanding the Procedure

  • Educational sessions: Attend sessions or seminars that explain the surgical process, risks, potential complications, and the recovery process.

  • Post-surgery lifestyle: Understand the lifelong commitment to diet, exercise, vitamin supplementation, and regular medical check-ups.

How Long Does it Take to Recover After Bariatric Surgery?

Recovery time following bariatric surgery varies depending on the specific procedure, the patient's overall health, and how well they follow post-operative care guidelines.

These include:

Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass

  • Initial recovery period: Patients typically spend 2-3 days in the hospital post-surgery. Most can return to non-strenuous activities within 2-3 weeks.

  • Full recovery: Full adaptation to new eating habits and lifestyle changes may take several months. Complete healing from surgery, including internal adjustments, can take up to a year.

Gastric Sleeve (Sleeve Gastrectomy)

  • Initial recovery period: The hospital stay is usually around 2 days and patients can return to non-strenuous activities in about 2 weeks.

  • Full recovery: Adjusting to a new diet and lifestyle, including complete healing and weight loss stabilization can take several months to a year.

During recovery, patients will need to adhere to dietary guidelines, including consuming liquid or pureed foods initially and gradually transitioning to solid foods. Regular follow-up appointments are crucial to monitor health, nutrition, and weight loss progress.

FAQs About Bariatric Surgeries

The common questions regarding bariatric surgery often revolve around inquiries about cost, eligibility, and long-term effectiveness.

  • Bariatric surgery is generally considered safe, especially when performed by experienced surgeons in accredited medical facilities. The safety of these procedures has improved significantly over the years due to advancements in surgical techniques and improvements in pre- and post-operative care.

  • Eligibility depends on BMI, existing health conditions, and the ability to commit to lifestyle changes post-surgery.

  • The long-term success of bariatric surgery varies, but adherence to dietary and lifestyle changes can significantly improve the outcome.

Schedule a Consultation for Bariatric Surgery at Passport Surgical Partners

It’s essential to understand the complexities of bariatric surgery as it is not just a medical procedure but a significant step in a person’s journey towards a healthier life. At Passport Surgical Partners, we connect you to premier medical facilities and experienced bariatric surgeons, ensuring confidence in the procedure and the recovery process.

We coordinate the entire surgical process, including pre-op and post-op care, accommodations, and support during recovery.

Post-surgery, once cleared for travel by your surgeon, you can return home. During this period, you may still be adjusting to new dietary habits and lifestyle changes.

We partner with top surgeons in Latin America who specialize in:

  • Cosmetic Dentistry

  • Breast Procedures

  • Body Procedures

  • Hair Transplant Procedures

  • Bariatric Surgeries

  • Gender Affirming Surgeries