Bariatric Surgery

Any surgery or procedure done to help a person lose weight in a healthy and effective manner is called Bariatric Surgery.

People with Body Mass Index (the ratio of weight and height) more than 32kg/m2 with associated weight related problems like Type 2 Diabetes, Hypertension, High Cholesterol, Joint problems, Sleep Apnea etc. or people with Body Mass Index(BMI) more than 37kg/m2 without any associated problems are considered ideal candidates for Bariatric Surgery.

As we age, our body metabolism slows down and thus it is difficult to start losing weight and to maintain it once lost. Also, beyond BMI 30kg/m2, non-surgical techniques have limited impact on weight loss. Non-surgical techniques are attractive as they are reversible without any permanent body changes. But that is exactly why their impact is also temporary i.e. they only work till they are followed regularly. Exercise is the only effective way to increase metabolism without surgery. People with joint and back pain due to obesity find it difficult to exercise and so have a tough time losing weight and end up disappointed with non-surgical weight loss techniques.

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FAQs:

Bariatric Surgeries can be broadly divided into two types:

  1. Restrictive- procedures which restrict food quantity such as Gastric Band, Gastric Sleeve, Gastric Balloon, Gastric Imbrication etc.
  2. Mal-absorptive- procedures which reduce absorption of calories such as Gastric Bypass, Mini Gastric Bypass, Proximal jejuna Bypass with Sleeve etc.

Bariatric Surgery, like any other surgery, can have side effects. However, as they are done Laparoscopically, using key holes, risks like pain, bleeding infection are very low. But a person would be eating small sized meals. It is very important to listen to your body and understand the quantity that you can tolerate. If you eat more than your capacity or eat fast without chewing thoroughly, you can get nausea and vomiting. The other important factor is that as your quantity is now reduced, it is important to stay regular with supplements like vitamins and protein. If this is not done, you may feel weakness, have dull hair and skin. Bariatric Surgery involves a lifestyle change towards healthy living. If done right, you can enjoy all its health benefits and get rid of not only weight but all weight related diseases.

Young women with obesity suffer from hormonal changes resulting in a condition called Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome or PCOS. This causes irregular cycles, excess facial hair and finally infertility. Bariatric Surgery helps in reversal of all these problems with effective weight loss. This helps women with PCOS related infertility conceive without difficulty. Yes, it is important that nutritional care is taken during pregnancy after Bariatric Surgery with frequent small meals and regular supplements.

The cost of surgery varies for different procedures. Approximate can be 2L – 5L. No, as of now Indian insurance companies barring a couple do not cover bariatric surgery.

Yes of course. First of all you will go through some tests. As surgery is performed under General Anesthesia, you must have a clearance of our anaesthesia doctors for surgery. After this, you will be advised a high protein diet for 1-2 weeks before surgery. This diet will help reduce the fat in your liver and make your surgery and recovery quick and simple. Also, you will be asked to perform a simple breathing exercise at home to improve your lung capacity. Stopping smoking and alcohol is mandatory before surgery. No short cuts on this one.

Bariatric surgery is a tool given to you to have effective and lasting weight loss. Provided you use it well. There are no short cuts to success, even in bariatrics. If you don’t control yourself and start consuming lots of calorie dense foods on a regular basis, yes you will regain weight.  Bariatric Surgery involves a commitment to a healthy lifestyle. Where you have healthy food on a regular basis and indulge occasionally. Weight regain chances are lesser after bypass operations. But even then they are not zero. Your determination is the most important in your success story.

Yes, you can have loose skin depending on amount of weight loss you undergo. Tightening can be achieved by performing toning exercises after surgery. There are also massages available which help in skin tightening. Some patients with too much loose skin may require cosmetic corrective surgery to remove this loose skin.