Understanding Bariatric Surgery

Bariatric surgery refers to a variety of procedures performed on people who are obese. Weight loss is achieved by reducing the size of the stomach with a gastric band or through removal of a portion of the stomach.

Types of Bariatric Surgery

• Sleeve Gastrectomy — removes about 80% of the stomach
• Gastric Bypass (RYGB) — reroutes the digestive system
• Gastric Band — places a band around the upper stomach

Who is a Candidate?

Surgery is typically recommended for patients with a BMI over 40, or BMI over 35 with serious weight-related health problems such as type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure.

Benefits

Beyond weight loss, bariatric surgery can resolve or improve many obesity-related conditions, including type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea, high blood pressure, and joint pain.