Bariatric Surgery Delivers Options

Posted by Dr. Nick Nicholson on March 31st, 2015

If you’ve struggled with weight loss your entire life and diet and exercise just don’t seem to be doing the trick, it might be time to explore the possibility of bariatric surgery. This more invasive solution to weight loss delivers results, but it’s important for you and your doctor to carefully weigh the options to determine the best procedure in your case.

Understanding the Types

Bariatric surgery meant to promote and maintain weight loss does deliver some options. Here are some of the more common procedures performed to help people shed pounds and keep them off:

• Lap Band surgery – This minimally invasive surgery involves the placement of a special band around the stomach. The band can be adjusted and even removed down the road. It works by limiting the amount of food the stomach can comfortably contain, promoting weight loss as it does so. This procedure involves a minimal amount of recovery time and does not involve a permanent alteration of the body to achieve desired results.

• Gastric Bypass – This is another commonly performed bariatric procedure that produces rather strong results. As the name suggests, however, it is more invasive. This surgery involves making the stomach smaller by creating a pouch at the top. This smaller stomach is connected to the middle portion of the small intestine, effectively bypassing the rest of the stomach. This procedure requires about 2 to 4 week of recovery and is considered permanent.

• Sleeve Gastrectomy – Similar to the bypass, this procedure involves a resection of part of the stomach. In this case, however, the goal is to control the part of the stomach that produces grehlin, the hormone that promotes a feeling of hunger.

If it’s time to consider weight loss surgery, be sure to consult with a bariatric surgeon to determine the best option in your case. A number of factors are likely to come into play that will help point to the most suitable procedure to help you achieve your weight loss goals and maintain them over the long haul.

About Author

One of the most experienced weight loss surgeons in the country – Dr. Nick Nicholson – along with a full staff of surgeons, nurses and other experienced clinicians, help patients reverse obesity with LAP-BAND, Gastric Bypass, Sleeve Gastrectomy and Revisions.