About Bariatric Surgery

Bariatric surgery, also known as weight loss surgery, is a major, life-altering procedure. This surgery is typically performed to treat morbid obesity and in most cases, the minimum qualification for the procedure is 100 lbs above ideal body weight or a Body Mass Index of 40 or higher. In some cases, bariatric surgery will be performed on an individual with a BMI of 35 or greater, but only if the patient's physician determines that the surgery and weight loss are medically necessary to address obesity-related health conditions.

It takes several months to prepare for bariatric surgery. It also takes several months to heal and adjust to a new lifestyle after the procedure has taken place. Bariatric surgery is a lifetime commitment. Surgeons will usually require patients to demonstrate an incredible amount of motivation and devotion before even accepting them as a candidate for the surgery.

Surgical Options

Weight loss surgery can be defined by several procedures; however laparoscopy has been used for bariatric surgeries for several years. During laparoscopic weight loss operations, a small video camera and surgical instruments are inserted via small incisions in the abdominal wall, and the surgeon views the procedure on a separate monitor.

Two of the most popular weight loss procedures are performed by laparoscopy: Gastric Bypass and Adjustable Gastric Banding (Lap-Band Surgery).