Are you considering bariatric surgery? If so, you’re not alone. It’s becoming an increasingly popular option for people struggling with obesity. But what is bariatric surgery, and what can you expect if you decide to have it?
This blog post gives a basic overview of the different types of bariatric surgery available. So, if you’re curious to learn more, just keep reading!
What is Bariatric Surgery?
Bariatric surgery is done by different procedures, but all involve helping a patient lose weight. There are two main types of bariatric surgery: restrictive and malabsorptive.
Restrictive surgeries reduce the size of the stomach to help with food intake. On the other hand, malabsorptive surgeries minimize nutrient absorption in the intestine to help with calorie intake.
There are several types of restrictive surgeries that are performed. Vertical banded gastroplasty (VBG) is a procedure that ties off the stomach at one end with staples.
Next, there is laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB). This procedure places an inflatable band around the upper part of the stomach to restrict food intake.
Lastly, there is laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) surgery. That one is a restrictive procedure that involves rerouting the digestive system to create a small pouch. It makes it harder for the patient to feel full after eating.
Malabsorptive
Malabsorptive surgeries involve modifying parts of the intestine to reduce nutrient absorption and calorie intake. There are two types of malabsorptive surgeries. The first is biliopancreatic diversion (BPD). It reduces the size of the stomach and bypasses the majority of the small intestine to reduce food absorption, leaving only part of the ileum.
Finally, there is biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch (BPD-DS). This type of bariatric surgery combines the two methods mentioned above to decrease the size of the stomach and bypass most of the small intestine.
However, it also involves changing part of the large intestine.
When is Bariatric Surgery Necessary?
These operations are usually done to help with losing weight once a traditional diet and regular exercise routines have not worked. They are considered when an individual is very overweight or has severe health problems due to weight.
If a patient is interested in bariatric surgery, they need to know the different types of surgeries before proceeding with any procedures. They should consider if their excess weight will make these surgeries viable options for them, and if this type of operation would help their specific condition.
Please be aware that the information provided in this article is not meant to give medical advice. Please consult your doctor before considering any bariatric surgery options. However, if you’re serious about weight loss surgery, check out the highlighted link.
Get Rid of Your Excess Weight
If you’re considering bariatric surgery, hopefully this content has painted a more accurate picture of what to expect. Remember that the benefits could be life-changing, but there are also risks involved. We want you to make the best decision for your health!
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