Weight Loss Surgery - Know Its Types!

Weight loss surgery or bariatric surgery helps lose weight in those people who are about 100 pounds (male) and 80 pounds (female). It helps individual resolve obesity-related medical problems.

Types of Weight Loss Surgeries-

1. Gastric Band

A band is put around stomach tightly which divides the stomach into two sections, namely smaller upper and larger lower which is connected through a small tube by which emptying of the upper part becomes slow. Since less food is required to fill this pouch; there is no need to eat much. The band is connected to a device under the skin. It can be tightened after 4-6 weeks after surgery.

Merits: Simpler method. Recovery is faster leaving a small scar.

Demerits: Lesser weight loss than other surgeries. The band might slip out. Vomiting can occur after overeating food quickly.

2. Sleeve Gastrectomy

In this procedure, a larger portion of the stomach is cut off, and the remaining smaller part is attached to the intestine. Smaller the stomach, lesser is the production of appetite-regulating hormone ghrelin. As a result, less food is taken in.

Merits: It is a simple method. As it does not involve intestines, the process of absorption takes place smoothly, and the patient does not fall short of nutrients.

Demerits: It is an irreversible process. It can cause infection and leaking of sleeve might take place.

3. Duodenal Switch with Biliopancreatic Diversion

In this procedure, a larger part (70%) of the stomach is cut off leaving the duodenum. The surgeon cuts the middle part of intestine attaches it to the duodenum. It is called duodenal switch. The leftover part of the intestine is again attached to the last part of intestine allowing pancreatic juices and bile to flow into that part. This is biliopancreatic division. Food passes directly into the small intestine limiting absorption of nutrients and calories, ultimately resulting in weight loss.

Merits: It is a fast method to lose weight, and the patient can eat large amounts of food.

Demerits: Nutritional deficiencies are seen.

4. Gastric Ballooning

A small balloon filled with salt and water is placed in the stomach through a thin tube via throat.Merits: The patient feels full and will not be able to eat much.

Demerits: It is a temporary method, which can last only for 6 months.

5. Gastric Bypass

In this procedure, the surgeon divides the stomach into two parts, namely upper and lower. Here, the upper part of the stomach is directly connected to the last part of the intestine.

Merits: More than 50% weight loss take place, as much weight gets reduced, and conditions, such as diabetes and blood pressure come under control.

Demerits: As less of nutrients are absorbed, the patient might land up into anemia and nutritional deficiency. The patient might need to take supplements after surgery to maintain balance. In case you have a concern or query you can always consult an expert & get answers to your questions!