According to research conducted by ASMBS in 2017, approx 228,000 people went through bariatric surgeries in the USA and the numbers continue to rise. Bariatric surgery is one of the most effective procedures that can help people with a BMI of more than 35 lose excess weight and live a healthy life. Bariatric surgeries are also influential in helping patients get rid of many weight-related medical conditions such as sleep apnea, type-2 diabetes, and hypertension. Continuing further on the subject, in this blog post, we address four common questions from people undergoing bariatric surgery. Read on!

What are the types of bariatric surgery?

There are majorly three types of weight loss surgery: sleeve gastrectomy, gastric bypass, and duodenal switch.

Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy/ Gastric Sleeve: The minimally invasive procedure involves removing 80 to 85 percent of the stomach and stapling the remaining tube-shaped portion about the size and shape of a banana to limit the amount of food a person can consume.

Laparoscopic Gastric Bypass: During this procedure, the weight loss doctor cuts across the top of the stomach and creates a walnut-sized pouch that is later attached to the small intestine to allow the food to pass directly into the small intestine. The entire process restricts the portion size and limits the absorption of food.

Laparoscopic Duodenal Switch: During procedure, the stomach is fashioned into a sleeve, and the small intestine is configured similar to a gastric bypass. This minimally invasive procedure is considered the most effective for both weight loss and diabetes control.

What are the advantages?

  • You can lose up to 60-70 percent of body fat after bariatric surgery
  • You can also get rid of all the weight-related diseases that can be dangerous in the long term
  • Bariatric surgery can help people live a healthy life
  • Weight loss surgery can promote a strict diet and exercise regimen to help manage a healthy weight in the long run
  • It can boost a person’s confidence

What foods can be eaten after bariatric surgery?

  • Food with Empty Calories
  • Dry Foods
  • Bread, Rice, and Pasta
  • Fibrous Fruits and Vegetables
  • High-Fat Food
  • Sugary and Highly Caffeinated Drinks
  • Tough Meats

What will the doctor recommend after bariatric surgery?

  • Eating and drinking slowly
  • Going for small portions
  • Drinking liquids between meals
  • Chewing food thoroughly
  • Eating high protein foods
  • Taking vitamin and mineral supplements

What are the risks of bariatric surgery?

  • Dumping syndrome
  • Developing kidney stones
  • Weight regain
  • Anesthesia-related risks
  • Acid reflux
  • Chronic vomiting and nausea
  • Dilation of esophagus
  • Infection
  • Inability to eat certain foods
  • Obstruction of stomach
  • Malnutrition
  • Low blood sugar
  • Vomiting
  • Ulcers
  • Hernias
  • Bowel obstruction

Wrap Up

Although weight loss surgery involves certain risks, in many cases, the complications are minor and can be treated with a few medications. To avoid major and long-term risks and complications, patients must adhere to the food and exercise guidelines recommended by the doctor. For more information on bariatric surgery in Dallas and Fort Worth, Texas, get in touch with the experienced team at DFW Bariatrics and General Surgery. The seasoned weight loss doctors will help identify the best weight-loss procedure for you and guide you through your weight loss journey. Call 469-620-0222 or email [email protected].