What is bariatric surgery?
Bariatric surgery is a term that includes a number of different procedures used to treat obesity. It is often recommended for people for whom diet, exercise, and medication have not been effective. You may also hear it referred to as "weight loss surgery" or "obesity surgery."
Generally, bariatric surgery works in one of three ways:
1. Restriction — limiting the amount of food intake by reducing the size of the stomach
2. Malabsorption — limiting the absorption of foods in the intestinal tract by "bypassing" a portion of the small intestine to varying degrees; or,
3. Combination — utilizing both restriction and malabsorption methods
The Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGBP) surgery is the most commonly performed procedure. It works by combining restrictive and malabsorptive elements. Another procedure, Adjustable Gastric Banding (often called Lap-Band®) surgery, involves attaching an inflatable band around the top portion of the stomach and tightening it like a belt to form a small pouch.
The decision regarding which procedure will work best for each individual is made between patient and surgeon after a thorough assessment and review of options.
For a more detailed explanation of these procedures,
click here.
You can also get more information and meet some of our helpful and supportive professionals, by attending one of the Center’s educational seminars. Or, call us at 708.679.2717.
Is this surgery right for me?
Consulting with an experienced bariatric surgeon is the best step for determining if surgery is the best solution for you. As with all major surgeries, the long-term health benefits must be considered and weighed against the possible risks and side effects.
Generally, candidates for this type of surgery have:
- struggled with obesity for five or more years
- a Body Mass Index (BMI) greater than 40
- a BMI between 35 and 40 and another condition such as obesity-related type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea, heart disease or hypertension
To calculate your BMI, click here.
In addition to losing weight, are there other benefits?
Yes. Bariatric surgery helps the vast majority of people improve their quality of life and overall health by:
- lowering blood sugar
- lowering blood pressure
- reducing or eliminating sleep apnea
- decreasing joint pain
- lowering cholesterol levels
- increasing mobility
How much weight loss should I expect?
After a Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGBP), the average patient loses 75% of excess body weight in 18 months.
After an Adjustable Gastric Banding procedure, the average patient loses 50% of excess body weight in 2 years.
Your post-operative commitment to behavioral changes, diet and exercise are important factors in overall results.
How long will I be in the hospital?
Depending on the procedure and post-operative course, you can expect to stay in the hospital 1-3 days.
What are the risks associated with this surgery?
As with any surgical procedure, there are risks associated with the specific procedure performed, and there may be additional risks depending on your medical conditions. It’s important to discuss all concerns with your surgeon during the consultation process prior to surgery.
Will my insurance cover the costs?
While all insurance plans are different, many plans do cover bariatric surgery. The St. James Center for Bariatric Surgery staff works closely with the insurer to facilitate payment. The Center also offers pre-surgical programs to help meet insurance eligibility criteria. When insurance does not cover the procedure, you may wish to seek other sources of funding.
What will happen after I go home from surgery?
At St. James, we support you every step of the way by providing:
- comprehensive education before and after surgery for optimal recovery
- consultations with the surgeon, program coordinator and other health care professionals to review surgical care, medications, nutrition and activities
- follow-up visit with the surgeon 1-2 weeks after the procedure
Depending on the procedure and the type of work you do, the period of recuperation typically involves 2-6 weeks off from work as you explore a new way of eating and gradually increase physical activity.
Bariatric surgery can be emotionally challenging. Adjusting to new habits and a changing body is most successful with a supportive, ongoing relationship with the caring team of professionals at the Center.
The content provided here is for informational purposes only, and was not designed to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease, or replace the professional medical advice you receive from your physician or surgeon. Please consult your physician or surgeon with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your condition.
