Bariatric Surgery / Metabolic

Bariatric/obesity/weight loss surgery is a treatment option for patients suffering from morbid obesity. It is considered to be one of the most effective methods for weight loss and long-term weight maintenance. Moreover, this weight loss surgery causes significant improvement in obesity-related comorbid conditions like Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, joint pain, sleeping disorders like sleep apnea, heart diseases, infertility issues and more. The bariatric or weight loss surgery cost in India is far less when compared to its western counterparts, even though the same standard of care offered is at par with global standards.

Bariatric surgery is performed using the Laparoscopic technique (Keyhole surgery – minimally invasive), and most of the patients are walking around on the same day of the surgery.

Bariatric surgical procedures cause weight loss by restricting the amount of food intake, causing less absorption of calories, or by a combination of both gastric restriction and malabsorption. Weight loss surgeries are performed using minimally invasive techniques (laparoscopic surgery).

Best Bariatric Weight Loss Surgery Options

The best hospitals for bariatric or weight loss surgery provide following surgery options-

• Gastric bypass
• Sleeve gastrectomy
• Mini gastric bypass
• Gastric bands

The choice of the surgical procedure of this weight loss treatment depends on the treating bariatric Surgeon and the team after evaluation and counseling.

Max Institute of MAMBS, Saket is accredited as the First and Founder Center of Excellence in ‘Metabolic & Bariatric Surgery’ (2011 - 2014) by the Surgical Review Corporation, USA. 

What are the Benefits of Bariatric Weight Loss Surgery

Bariatric Surgery is done to help an individual lose excess weight and reduce their risk of potentially life-threatening weight-related health issues, such as:

• Type 2 diabetes
• High blood pressure
• Heart disease
• Severe sleep apnea
• Osteoarthritis
• Infertility
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease
• Some types of cancer

Usually, weight-loss surgeries such as bariatric surgery are done only after a person has tried to lose weight by improving their diet as well as exercising. However, has been unsuccessful at the supervised attempts.

What are the Risks Involved?

Some of the risks related to the weight loss treatment include infection, bleeding, anastomotic leaks, blood clots in legs and anaesthesia issues. In the long run, some deficiencies maybe observed in patients who are non-compliant the most common of which is Vitamin B12 deficiency however it can be managed effectively.

Results of the Weight Loss Surgery

Bariatric surgery and other weight loss treatments can provide long-term weight loss. The amount of weight a person loses depends on the type of surgery and also the change in their lifestyle habits. It is possible for a person to lose half, or even more, of their excess weight within a period of two years depending on the initial weight. Approximately, 70% of the excess body weight is lost.

Apart from weight loss, bariatric or weight loss surgery in India, significantly improves conditions often related to being overweight, including Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart diseases, joint pains, sleeping disorders, infertility, gastroesophageal reflux disease.

Bariatric surgery can also help in improving an individual’s ability to perform the daily routine activities, which further enhances the quality of life. At Max Hospital weight loss surgery is done by the best bariatric surgeon in India. so, book an appointment with Max Hospitals for bariatric surgery in Delhi, India, now.

FAQs

• What is weight loss surgery?
  Weight loss surgery refers to a surgical procedure to help obese individuals lose weight by modifying the digestive system. It is also known as bariatric surgery.
• Who is eligible for weight loss surgery?
  Candidates for weight loss surgery typically have a BMI (body mass index) of 35 or more (or lesser with obesity-related health conditions) and have not had success with non-surgical weight loss methods.
• What are some different types of weight loss surgeries?
  Popular weight loss surgeries include gastric bypass, gastric sleeve (sleeve gastrectomy), adjustable gastric banding, and biliopancreatic diversion with a duodenal switch.
• How does gastric bypass surgery work?
  Gastric bypass surgery involves creating a stomach pouch and rerouting the digestive tract, reducing the amount of food consumed and limiting calorie absorption.
• What is the procedure for gastric sleeve surgery?
  During a gastric sleeve surgery, a portion of the stomach is removed permanently, leaving a smaller sleeve-shaped stomach, which reduces the amount of food intake by causing early satiety.
• What is adjustable gastric banding?
  Adjustable gastric banding is placing an inflatable band around the top part of the stomach to control the amount of food that can be consumed.
• How does biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch work?
  Biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch is a procedure involving the removal of a part of the stomach and rerouting the small intestine to control food intake and calorie absorption.
• Is weight loss surgery reversible?
  While some weight loss surgeries, such as gastric banding, are reversible, others, like sleeve gastrectomy, are generally considered permanent procedures.
• What are the potential risks and complications of weight loss surgery?
  Risks and complications can include infection, bleeding, blood clots, gallstones, nutritional deficiencies, or other long-term complications related to the altered digestive system.
• How much weight could I expect to lose after weight loss surgery?
  The amount of weight lost depends on the type of surgery, adherence to dietary and lifestyle changes, and individual factors.
• Will weight loss surgery resolve obesity-related health conditions?
  Weight loss surgery could help resolve or improve obesity-related conditions like high blood pressure, sleep apnea, type 2 diabetes, and joint pain.
• How long does the recovery period after weight loss surgery take?
  The recovery period after weight loss surgery varies depending on the procedure and individual factors. It typically involves a hospital stay of 1-3 days, with a gradual return to normal activities over several weeks.
• What dietary changes are required after weight loss surgery?
  After weight loss surgery, a gradual transition from liquid to solid foods is necessary. Patients are advised to consume small, nutrient-dense meals, avoid high-calorie foods, and follow specific dietary guidelines provided by their healthcare team.
• Do I need to take vitamin and mineral supplements after weight loss surgery?
  Yes, vitamin and mineral supplements are usually required after weight loss surgery to prevent nutritional deficiencies. Common supplements include iron, calcium, vitamin D, vitamin B12, and others.
• What is the role of exercise after weight loss surgery?
  Regular exercise is a component of a healthy lifestyle after weight loss surgery. It helps improve weight loss results, build muscle, increase metabolism, enhance overall well-being and prevent weight regain.
• Can weight loss surgery improve fertility?
  Weight loss surgery can improve fertility in individuals with obesity-related infertility issues by correcting hormonal imbalance and weight reduction. However, individual circumstances and underlying causes should be considered.
• Will I need to undergo additional surgeries for excess skin removal after weight loss surgery?
  Excess skin is a common occurrence after significant weight loss. Depending on the location and local excess skin, additional surgeries such as body contouring procedures may be considered to achieve desired results.
• Can weight regain occur after weight loss surgery?
  Weight regain can occur after weight loss surgery if dietary and lifestyle modifications are not followed consistently. Long-term success requires an ongoing commitment to healthy habits and regular follow-up care.
• Can weight loss surgery be performed on adolescents?
  Weight loss surgery might be an option for severely obese adolescents who have not been able to achieve significant weight loss through non-surgical methods. However, careful evaluation and multidisciplinary assessment are necessary.
• Can weight loss surgery be performed on individuals with other medical conditions?
  Weight loss surgery can be performed on individuals with other medical conditions, and a comprehensive evaluation is needed to assess the risks and benefits and to determine the most appropriate surgical approach.
• Could weight loss surgery improve quality of life?
  Weight loss surgery has been shown to improve quality of life by reducing obesity-related health conditions, improving mobility, enhancing self-esteem, and increasing overall well-being.
• Will I need to attend support groups after weight loss surgery?
  Support groups can provide valuable practical and emotional support during the weight loss journey. Many healthcare facilities offer support groups specifically for individuals who have undergone weight loss surgery.
• Can weight loss surgery impact mental health?
  Weight loss surgery can have a positive effect on mental health by improving body image, self-confidence and reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety. However, it's important to address any psychological factors before and after the procedure.
• Will I need to make long-term lifestyle changes after weight loss surgery?
  Long-term lifestyle changes like adopting a healthy eating pattern, regular exercise, and ongoing monitoring of weight and health are crucial for maintaining weight loss and overall well-being after surgery.
• Can weight loss surgery help with long-term weight management?
  Weight loss surgery is a tool that can help achieve significant weight loss. However, long-term weight management requires consistent adherence to dietary and lifestyle changes, regular follow-up care, and ongoing support.

Review

FAQs reviewed by Dr. Pradeep Chowbey, Chairman, Max Institute of Laparoscopic, Endoscopic, Bariatric Surgery & Allied Surgical Specialities on 10-Aug-2023.