Bariatric surgery is the surgical procedure of the stomach and/or intestines to promote weight loss for individuals who are significantly overweight, considered morbidly obese. Morbid obesity is defined as individuals who are 100 lbs. over their ideal body weight with a body mass index (BMI) above 40. Morbid Obesity has reached almost epidemic proportions in the United States, with nearly 11 million persons suffering from its debilitating effects.

Bariatric surgery is also an option for individuals with a BMI between 35-40 with additional health problems such as heart disease or diabetes.

Surgical Techniques

Weight-loss (bariatric) surgery is the surgical procedure of the stomach and/or intestines to promote weight loss for individuals who are significantly overweight, considered morbidly obese.

Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass

Adjustable gastric banding

Adjustable gastric banding (AGB) is the only weight loss surgery that is adjustable. This procedure reduces food intake by limiting the amount of food the stomach can hold. In AGB, a hollow silicone band that can be inflated with saltwater is placed around the upper end of the stomach, creating a small pouch that catches the food, allowing it to drain slowly into the rest of the stomach. The flow of food from the pouch can be adjusted by increasing or decreasing the inflation of the band. This procedure also requires a lifetime regimen of nutritional supplements.

Are you considering weight-loss surgery?

For some people, weight-loss surgery can be a life-saving option. More than 90 percent of morbidly obese patients with medical conditions such as diabetes or hypertension no longer require medications to control their diseases. However, all weight loss surgeries require your active participation. If you continue with the same old habits, you can easily override anything a doctor can do for you.

More Health Information

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