Obesity is the excess accumulation of body fat. It results from high-calorie intake and poses a significant risk of developing many life-threatening diseases. Obesity surgery is usually considered as the best treatment option for patients who have failed to respond to non-surgical weight loss strategies like diet, medication and exercises. Obesity surgery promotes weight loss by decreasing the amount of food your stomach can hold and limiting absorption of nutrients.

The decision to undergo bariatric surgery for a patient is usually a very big step. It is however also a demonstration of their commitment to change. This time represents a fantastic opportunity to harness their enthusiasm for change toward a healthier life. A team approach gives the greatest chance for long-term success.

Common bariatric (obesity) operations include:

LAPAROSCOPIC SLEEVE GASTRECTOMY

This procedure involves removing approximately 75% of the stomach by turning it into a narrow tube or sleeve. This reduces the size of the stomach and limits the amount of food intake.

LAPAROSCOPIC GASTRIC BYPASS

This procedure involves stapling off a large section of the stomach which leaves behind a small pouch that can accommodate only about half a cup of food at a time. A section of the small bowel is attached to this newly formed pouch allowing the food to bypass the lower stomach and much of the small intestine, leading to weight loss.