Bariatric Surgery

Bariatric surgery is a specialized branch of surgery aimed at helping individuals with severe obesity lose weight and reduce the risk of life-threatening health problems such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea, and heart disease. It is considered when conventional methods like diet, exercise, and medication have failed, and is typically recommended for patients with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 or more, or a BMI of 35 or more with obesity-related conditions.

The most common types of bariatric surgery include Sleeve Gastrectomy, Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass, and Biliopancreatic Diversion with Duodenal Switch. These procedures work by restricting the amount of food the stomach can hold, altering gut hormones, and in some cases, reducing the absorption of nutrients. As a result, patients experience early satiety, reduced hunger, and improved metabolism, contributing to long-term weight loss and remission of comorbidities.

Bariatric surgery has been shown to significantly improve quality of life and reduce the risk of premature death. Many patients experience complete or partial resolution of chronic conditions, especially type 2 diabetes, often within weeks of the procedure. However, it is not a cosmetic surgery—it requires lifelong commitment to dietary changes, regular follow-ups, and vitamin/mineral supplementation to avoid nutritional deficiencies.

Like any major surgery, bariatric procedures carry risks such as bleeding, infections, and long-term complications like nutrient malabsorption. Therefore, patients undergo thorough preoperative evaluation and counseling. With proper medical support and patient compliance, bariatric surgery can be a transformative tool in managing obesity and its complications.