Exploring the Different Types of Weight Loss Surgeries

Weight loss surgery can be a literal lifesaver when battling obesity. One consideration for this life-changing step should be understanding the types of weight loss surgery available. This article will give you an overview of three main types of weight loss surgery to consider.

Gastric Bypass Surgery

Gastric bypass, also known as Roux-en-Y, is among the most common and successful weight loss surgery variations. The primary approach is to create a small pouch at the top of the stomach and directly connect it to the small intestine. This operation effectively closes off quite a large part of the stomach. It bypasses the first part of the small intestine, severely limiting food intake and overall caloric absorption.

Advantages of Gastric Bypass:

• Long-term loss of 60–80% of excess weight.
• Alterations in gut hormones that reduce appetite and increase satiety.
• Improves obesity-related conditions such as type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure.

Potential Risks:

• Nutrient deficiencies are a result of poor absorption.
• Dumping syndrome, which can cause diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting.
• Dietary recommendations and vitamin and mineral supplementation must be followed lifelong.

Sleeve Gastrectomy

The second type of weight loss surgery is sleeve gastrectomy, in which the stomach’s volume is reduced by around 80%. It entails performing a surgery that involves making two cuts on the stomach, then stapling and removing nearly eighty percent of the stomach to turn it into a tube.

Advantages of Sleeve Gastrectomy:

• Significant weight loss, equivalent to 50–70% excess weight loss.
• Does not change the intestines, reducing or eliminating the chance of nutritional deficiencies.
• The potential risks of complications are fewer than with gastric bypass.

 Potential Risks:

• Risks of long-term deficiencies in vitamins.
• Risk of acid reflux and other gastrointestinal issues.
• It requires a personal commitment to a healthy lifestyle and dietary changes.

Adjustable Gastric Band

An adjustable gastric band, often known as the LAP-BAND, is a less invasive option for weight loss surgery. An inflatable band is placed in the upper part of the stomach, creating a small pouch. The band allows for adjusting the speed with which weight loss occurs.

Advantages of Adjustable Gastric Banding:

• Lower chance of complications related to surgery and nutritional deficiencies.
• The band is reversible and can be adjusted.
• Shorter hospital stay with fast recovery time.

Potential Risks

• Slower and less predictable weight loss than other bariatric procedures.
• Several follow-up visits for band adjustments.
• Band slippage or erosion over time is possible.

Choosing the Right Surgery

At Wellstar, our skilled weight loss surgeons in East Cobb are committed to taking you every step through this life-altering journey. We help prolong lasting weight loss and assist you in living a healthier life via individual care and comprehensive support. Contact Wellstar today for more information or to schedule a consultation and start your journey to a more radiant-looking and feeling you.