Weight Loss Options
Bariatric surgical procedures are typically performed laparoscopically. When a laparoscopic procedure is performed, several small incisions are made in the abdominal wall instead of one, large incision as with traditional surgery. Laparoscopic weight loss surgery may also be performed with robotic assistance, which provides 3D visualization.
The surgeon then inserts a thin telescope into the abdomen through one of the incisions. The telescope’s view is projected onto a video monitor, allowing the surgeon to perform the procedure using narrow instruments inserted through the other incisions.
There are many advantages to the laparoscopic approach. Because the procedure is less invasive, studies show that patients can experience less pain after surgery, have a shorter hospital stay and recover faster. Other benefits can include less risk of complications such as infection and hernia.
Not all patients are candidates for laparoscopic surgery; patients must be evaluated individually to see if this is an option for them. If it is not, the procedure may still be possible with the traditional “open” approach.
Sleeve Gastrectomy
This procedure involves removing approximately 85% of the stomach’s volume, leaving a slender stomach “sleeve.” The new stomach has a total capacity of just three to five ounces, which means patients feel full or satisfied after eating only a small amount of food. This surgery also causes changes in hormones that work to further promote a feeling of fullness. Sleeve gastrectomy permanently reduces the size of the stomach, limiting the amount of food you can eat and helping you to feel full faster and longer.
Revision and Conversion Surgery
For a variety of reasons, patients may experience the need for revisions, corrections or conversions of their original operation. Your surgeon can evaluate your situation and recommend appropriate treatment.
Conversion Surgery
If your adjustable gastric band needs to be removed, weight regain is highly likely. Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy or gastric bypass may be a viable surgical option for patients who experience problems with a gastric band or for those patients who do not reach their weight loss goals.
What are the Risks Associated with Weight Loss Surgery?
All surgeries carry some risk. Your bariatric surgeon will review the potential complications and risks before your surgery. Pneumonia, blood clots, infection, bleeding, leaking at staple lines, as well as ulcers, hernia and gallstones may occur, but are infrequent. Generally, the risks associated with weight loss surgery are significantly less than the risk of remaining morbidly obese.
Find out if weight loss surgery is right for you.
Take a Bariatric Assessment
Patient results may vary. Consult your physician about the benefits and risks of any surgical procedure or treatment.