Are you tired of trying every possible weight loss supplement, diet plan, and exercise routine with no significant results? Have you considered bariatric surgery as an option? Bariatric surgery is a life-changing procedure that involves altering the digestive system to promote weight loss. In this blog, we will tell the answer to this question and provide you with all the necessary information about bariatric surgery and its potential impact on your life.

What Is Bariatric Surgery?

Bariatric surgery refers to a set of surgical procedures specifically designed for weight reduction, constituting the most effective approach to lowering the risks of health issues tied to obesity.

The fundamental purpose of these surgeries is to decrease the capacity of the stomach and/or abbreviate the pathway of the digestive tract. This aims to limit food consumption (by promoting a feeling of satiety earlier) or to curb the absorption of nutrients. 

The extent to which these surgical interventions impact food consumption and nutrient utilization is contingent on the specific technique employed. The procedure results in a variety of metabolic modifications which beneficially influence both food consumption and energy metabolism.

In bariatric surgery, the stomach is primarily surgically reduced. Various surgical;

• Gastric sleeve,
• Gastric band,
• Gastric bypass,
• Biliopancreatic diversion.

When Might Surgery Be A Suitable Option?

When traditional weight loss strategies, including dietary changes, physical activity, and behavior therapy, have been thoroughly attempted without success, bariatric surgery could be a potential consideration in the subsequent situations:

• When an individual’s weight is excessive, evidenced by a body mass index (BMI) of 40 kg/m2 or higher (indicating class III obesity)
• For those with a BMI of 35 kg/m2 or higher (class II obesity), accompanied by obesity-related comorbidities such as:
• Type 2 diabetes
• Hypertension or other heart-related conditions
• Sleep apnea disorders
• Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
• Renal diseases
• Asthma
• Joint disorders

Exceptionally, individuals with a BMI between 30 and 34.9 kg/m² (class I obesity) who also have obesity-linked secondary diseases may be eligible for surgical intervention.

How Much Weight Will I Lose with Weight Loss Surgery?

The amount of weight shed following bariatric operations is dependent on the type of procedure employed. Usually, weight loss is determined as a percentage of excess weight shed, where excess weight is the difference between an individual’s actual and ideal weight.

Weight loss after Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Band procedure

• Between 45% and 72% over a period of 3 to 6 years
• From 14% to 60% over 7 to 10 years
• As high as 47% after 15 years

The magnitude of weight loss hinges on the frequency of post-operative doctor visits and the number of band adjustments made. Patients with a lower BMI prior to surgery are generally likely to shed more weight. In some cases, a second operation may be necessary.

Weight loss post Sleeve Gastrectomy procedure

• Between 33% and 58% after 2 years
• From 58% to 72% over a period of 3 to 6 years

Weight loss post Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass procedure

• Between 50% and 65% after 2 years

Despite some individuals regaining a bit of weight, the majority can maintain most of the weight loss for a span of up to 10 years, particularly in the case of the Roux-en-Y gastric bypass.

Do not hesitate to call us to find out what you are curious about. For more information about bariatric surgery in Turkey, check out our blog titled “Bariatric Surgery in Turkey: Your Solution for Weight Loss“.