AD | In recent times, notably post-pandemic, the global prevalence of obesity has surged, affecting millions of individuals, and inflicting detrimental health consequences. Not only does this have a visible impact on a person’s physical appearance, it also exacts a huge toll on their overall well-being. Bariatric treatments, encompassing both surgical and non-surgical methods, are one of the available range of options to aid excessive weight when dieting and exercise can’t help.
What Defines Obesity?
The World Health Organisation (WHO) defines obesity as a persistent medical condition marked by the excessive build up of body fat. This can then contribute to heart disease, diabetes, certain forms of cancer, and musculoskeletal ailments. According to WHO’s 2022 report, over one billion adults, adolescents, and children are grappling with obesity.
The repercussions extend beyond personal health, exerting a substantial burden on healthcare systems and contributing to rising healthcare expenses. A lifestyle with balanced nutrition and regular physical activity doesn’t always work, which is why medical procedures such as bariatric treatments are sometimes considered.
What Are Bariatric Treatments?
Also known as weight loss surgery or metabolic surgery, they can help improve many obesity-related conditions, such as type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure. Such treatments can vastly improve a person’s overall health and quality of life, but in most cases should only be considered after trying to lose weight through a healthy diet and regular exercise regime, and addressing any underlying emotional and/or mental health issues.
Gastric Bypass Surgery
Among the array of bariatric procedures, gastric bypass surgery is one of the most frequently conducted. This surgical intervention involves creating a smaller stomach pouch by partitioning the upper section of the stomach and linking it to the small intestine. This intricate process serves to curtail food intake and curbs nutrient absorption.
Health Improvements: The gastric bypass surgery benefits can usher in substantial weight reduction, and may lead to the amelioration or even resolution of conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and sleep apnea. It may also diminish the risk of heart disease by enhancing cholesterol levels and reducing blood pressure.
Sleeve Gastrectomy
Sleeve gastrectomy, also known as as gastric sleeve surgery, revolves around the excision of a substantial section of the stomach, leaving a smaller, banana-shaped pouch behind. This reduced stomach capacity results in the consumption of smaller meals and a more pronounced sensation of fullness.
Health Improvements: Sleeve gastrectomy is effective in promoting weight loss and bestows similar health advantages to gastric bypass surgery, encompassing better regulation of blood sugar levels and enhancements in cardiovascular health.
Adjustable Gastric Banding
Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding involves placing an inflatable silicone band around the upper part of the stomach to create a smaller pouch. The band is adjustable to regulate the size of the stomach opening.
Health Improvements: While it’s less invasive, adjustable gastric banding may not result in as much weight loss as other bariatric surgeries. However, it can lead to improved blood sugar control, reduced blood pressure, and more gradual weight loss.
Biliopancreatic Diversion with Duodenal Switch
Biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch is a complex procedure that involves both restrictive and malabsorptive components. It combines a sleeve gastrectomy with re-routing of the small intestine to reduce nutrient absorption.
Health Improvements: BPD/DS typically results in substantial weight loss and can lead to remarkable improvements in conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and sleep apnea. However, it’s a more complex surgery with the potential for nutrient deficiencies.
Intragastric Balloon
The intragastric balloon is a non-surgical bariatric option. A deflated balloon is inserted into the stomach and then inflated to take up space, making patients feel full after eating less food.
Health Improvements: While it’s a temporary solution, the intragastric balloon can help individuals lose weight and potentially improve or resolve conditions related to obesity. It is less invasive and has a shorter recovery time than surgical procedures.
Gastric Band Adjustments
For individuals who have undergone gastric banding (lap-band) but haven’t achieved the desired weight loss or have experienced complications, band adjustments or revisions may be performed to optimise the band’s effectiveness.
Health Improvements: Band adjustments aim to enhance weight loss and address issues like inadequate restriction or difficulty swallowing. These adjustments can help individuals achieve better results with their gastric band.
Life After Weight Loss Surgery
Bariatric treatments can help a person achieve significant weight loss, but they’re not a cure for obesity on its own. Post-surgery, individuals will need to commit to some permanent lifestyle changes to avoid regaining the weight. For example:
- for the first few weeks after surgery, patients need to stay on a liquid or soft food diet before gradually moving onto a normal balanced diet for the rest of their life
- after recovery from surgery, they’ll be advised to start a regular exercise plan and continue it for life
- they’ll need to attend regular follow-up appointments to check how things are going after surgery and to get advice or support if required
Bariatric Treatments – Are They For You?
These weight loss options present a range of choices for those seeking to shed excess weight. Both surgical or non-surgical interventions can yield substantial weight reduction and impart considerable health advantages, notably in the management of conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and sleep apnea. However, each has its advantages and disadvantages.
If you’re considering weight loss surgery, you should always speak to a healthcare professional first. Then you can discuss the precise treatment approach, as well as the possible risks vs. benefits, to help you decide which option is the best one for you.
* This is a collaborative post – please see my Disclaimer.
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