Bariatric surgery is a type of weight loss surgery that is performed on people who are obese. The surgery helps to reduce the amount of food that the person can eat, and also helps to reduce the absorption of calories from food. There are various types of bariatric surgery, and the most common types are gastric bypass and gastric sleeve surgery. So what about Gastric Bypass vs Gastric Sleeve?
Gastric bypass surgery is a surgery that creates a small stomach pouch, and then re-routes the small intestine to connect to this new pouch. This type of surgery is usually only performed on people who are extremely obese, and who have not been able to lose weight through other means.
Another type of bariatric surgery is gastric sleeve surgery. Gastric sleeve surgery is a surgery that removes a large portion of the stomach, leaving only a small sleeve of stomach remaining. This type of surgery is less common than gastric bypass surgery, but is sometimes performed on people who are not candidates for gastric bypass surgery.
Bariatric surgery is usually only recommended for people who are obese, and who have not been able to lose weight through other means. Bariatric surgery is a major surgery, and there are risks involved with the surgery. However, for people who are obese, the benefits of the surgery often outweigh the risks.
However, there are still many misconceptions among patients that prevent them from making this decision. Dr. Samrat Jankar who is one of the best gastroenterologists in Pune, will debunk all of the misconceptions about bariatric surgery in this article.
Myth: Bariatric surgery is highly risky.
Reality: Any type of surgery carries risks, such as complications or even death. However, a number of recent advancements have helped to reduce risks. Most of the bariatric surgeons & gastroenterologists in Pune perform surgeries laparoscopically with small incisions, resulting in quicker healing, less discomfort, and less scarring. Patients can also benefit from the treatment if they have other life-threatening obesity-related conditions such as Type II diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, or sleep apnea.
Myth: Bariatric surgery is a simple and easy way to lose weight quickly.
Reality: “Weight-loss surgery isn’t a miracle treatment. The aim of weight loss surgery is to assist morbidly obese people in leading a healthy lifestyle. A surgical weight loss procedure can be a good way to lose weight, but it’s a surgery that requires a long-term commitment.”- says Dr. Samrat Jankar who is one of the best gastroenterologists in Pune. He also added that the surgery alone would not help anyone lose weight and hold it off. The patient’s diet and exercise patterns must be altered. The patient will most likely regain the load over time if no changes are made to his or her normal eating and activity patterns. To cultivate new, lifelong healthy habits and behaviors, you’ll need to attend educational classes and support groups.
Myth: “Stomach stapling” is used in all bariatric surgeries.
Reality: There are several different types of gastrointestinal procedures for weight reduction, some of which decrease the stomach’s functional size or bypass sections of the alimentary canal, limiting calorie and nutrient absorption. Different types of surgeries produce different outcomes, and some are better suited to some patients than others.
Myth: Obese and morbidly obese people are more sedentary and oblivious.
Reality: Obesity is a disorder or health condition that affects obese and morbidly obese individuals. Most people have tried a variety of methods to lose weight and get better but have been ineffective. Weight loss surgery is usually the last resort, but it is still required. Unfortunately, many obese people face prejudice as well as unjustified criticism and judgement as a result of their weight.
Myth: I’m not a candidate for laparoscopic surgery if I’ve had prior surgeries.
Reality: And if you’ve had previous “open” surgeries or other minimally invasive surgeries, you’re still a candidate for laparoscopic surgery. Of course, each case is unique, and an accurate assessment is required.
Myth: Bariatric surgery makes it impossible to eat properly.
Reality: The majority of patients must take supplements during such weight loss procedures since the treatment prevents adequate vitamin and mineral absorption. Patients who follow their doctor’s meal-planning advice, on the other hand, will eat a nutritious diet. After a successful operation, their general health and well-being also improve significantly.
Myth: There is no need for follow-up treatment.
Reality: It is important to be the most effective follow-up treatment after a minimum of one year. Patients normally consult with a group of members of the medical staff. Members of the team consult with patients to help them make long-term lifestyle improvements.
Myth: To be qualified, you must weigh more than 100 kilograms.
Reality: It’s not just about your weight; your wellbeing is also a big factor. Several recent studies have shown that even moderately obese people with serious health problems will benefit from weight loss surgery. Weight-loss surgery has its own set of rules. However, your decision is influenced not only by your weight, but also by any other medical conditions you may have, such as diabetes.
Myth: Bariatric surgery is not covered by insurance.
Reality: While weight-loss surgery isn’t widely covered in India, many companies offer zero-percentage-interest loans for bariatric surgery. If you’re thinking about having weight loss surgery, the first move is to contact your bariatric surgeon to see if the operation is covered and if there are any exceptions. It’s important to keep in mind that obesity and morbid obesity are two distinct health conditions. Treatment for obesity would be excluded from certain programs, but treatment for morbid obesity will be covered.
Myth: After bariatric surgery, weight gain is caused by the stomach/pouch extending back out.
Reality: Obesity is a lifestyle condition, so patients must stick to a diet plan and exercise routine even after surgery. Many patients do not obey their surgeon’s instructions and gain weight as a result. If the patient does not obey the instructions, the stomach or pouch may dilate, resulting in weight gain.
