Bariatric surgery: your questions answered

Bariatric surgery is a popular choice of surgery to induce weight loss. Leading surgeon Mr Naim Fakih Gomez discusses the surgery, including the different types, who is a strong candidate for this surgery and risks associated with the surgery.

What is bariatric surgery and how does it work?

Bariatric surgery, also known as weight loss surgery, is a type of surgical procedure that aims to help people who are severely overweight (or obese) to lose weight.

There are various types of bariatric surgery available, but they all work by altering the digestive system to help people feel full sooner and eat less. This can be achieved by either reducing the size of the stomach, rerouting the digestive system, or both.

These procedures may also trigger some changes in gut hormones that help in achieving weight loss and gaining better metabolic control, improving some conditions related to being overweight.

What are the different types of bariatric surgery?

There are several types of bariatric surgery, such as:

• gastric bypass
• sleeve gastrectomy
• adjustable gastric banding
• biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch
• gastric balloon

The most common types of bariatric surgery are gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy.

Who is a good candidate for bariatric surgery?

Bariatric surgery is typically recommended for people who either have a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher, or a BMI of 35 or higher with at least one obesity-related health condition such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or sleep apnoea.

It may also be considered for people with a lower BMI with metabolic diseases related to being obese such as type 2 diabetes mellitus. This is usually referred to as metabolic surgery.

What are the risks and complications associated with bariatric surgery?

As is the case with any surgery, bariatric surgery carries some risks and potential complications, such as bleeding, infection, blood clots, and adverse reactions to anaesthesia. There are also some specific risks associated with bariatric surgery, such as malnutrition, dumping syndrome, bowel obstruction, and internal herniation. However, the risk of serious complications is generally low.

What is the recovery process like after bariatric surgery?

Recovery after bariatric surgery varies depending on the type of surgery performed. That being said, most people can return to work and normal activities within 2-4 weeks.

The immediate postoperative period may involve pain management, anti-sickness and a liquid diet for the first stage. Patients will be advised to follow a specific diet plan with gradual progression in the texture of food and an exercise program. It is also important to attend follow-up appointments to closely monitor progress and manage any issues that might arise.

If you would like to book a consultation with Mr Gomez, do not hesitate to do so by visiting his Top Doctors profile today