Deciding to pursue bariatric surgery is a significant step, one that involves careful thought and consideration. With nearly 100 million adults in the United States classified as overweight or obese, it is a condition that carries serious health risks, including heart disease and type 2 diabetes. Our commitment is to provide you with clear, professional, and empathetic information to help you understand what bariatric surgery entails. This guide will walk you through the qualifications, common procedures, and the lifelong commitment required for success. We want you to feel informed and supported as you explore this powerful, long-term solution for improving your health and well-being. Log on to https://doralhw.org/specialties/bariatric/ to know more about weight loss.
What is Bariatric Surgery?
Bariatric surgery, often referred to as weight loss surgery, is a set of procedures performed to help individuals with severe obesity achieve significant and sustained weight loss. We want to explain that it is more than just a surgical procedure; it is a tool that helps reset the body’s metabolic processes and supports a new, healthier lifestyle. The surgery works by modifying the digestive system, either by restricting the amount of food the stomach can hold or by altering the absorption of calories and nutrients. This approach provides a durable, long-term solution for individuals who have been unable to achieve lasting results through other methods.
Who Qualifies for Bariatric Surgery?
Deciding to undergo weight loss surgery is a personal choice made in partnership with a medical team. We want to be clear that this procedure is not for everyone. Patients must meet a specific set of criteria and undergo an extensive screening process to ensure they are prepared for the physical and lifestyle changes ahead. The goal is to ensure the best possible outcome and long-term success.
General BMI Criteria and Health Conditions
The primary qualifications are based on the Body Mass Index (BMI), a measure of body fat based on height and weight. The general BMI criteria include:
- A BMI of 40 or higher, which is classified as severe obesity.
- A BMI between 35 and 39.9, along with at least one significant obesity-related health condition, such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, or heart disease.
Commitment to Lifestyle Changes
Beyond the BMI criteria, a candidate must demonstrate a readiness to make permanent lifestyle adjustments. We believe this commitment is the true key to long-term success. The screening process typically requires that a patient:
- Has a documented history of unsuccessful attempts to lose weight through diet and exercise.
- Is willing to participate in a comprehensive pre-surgical education program to fully understand the procedure, aftercare, and necessary dietary changes.
- Commits to lifelong follow-up appointments and medical monitoring to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Common Types of Bariatric Surgery Procedures
There are several types of bariatric surgery, each with its own approach to achieving weight loss. We are here to provide a clear overview of the three most common procedures so you can have an informed discussion with your healthcare provider.
- Adjustable Gastric Band (Lap-Band)
The adjustable gastric band is often considered the least invasive option. In this procedure, a surgeon places an inflatable silicone band around the upper portion of the stomach. This creates a small stomach pouch above the band.
We want you to know that this smaller pouch limits the amount of food you can eat at one time, helping you feel full much faster. The band can be adjusted over time by injecting or removing saline, allowing your medical team to fine-tune the level of restriction.
Commonly known as gastric bypass, this procedure has been the gold standard for weight loss surgery for many years. It is a two-part process. First, the surgeon creates a small stomach pouch, about the size of an egg, by dividing the top of the stomach from the rest.
Second, the surgeon divides the small intestine and connects the lower part directly to the new stomach pouch. We want to explain that this rerouting causes food to bypass a large portion of the stomach and the upper part of the small intestine. This not only restricts food intake but also reduces the absorption of calories.
- Sleeve Gastrectomy (Gastric Sleeve)
The sleeve gastrectomy is currently the most frequently performed bariatric procedure worldwide. During this surgery, a large portion of the stomach—about 75-80%—is permanently removed. This leaves a narrow, banana-shaped tube or “sleeve.”
We understand that the smaller stomach holds significantly less food, which restricts calorie intake. Additionally, the procedure removes the part of the stomach that produces most of the “hunger hormone” (ghrelin), which helps reduce appetite and cravings. This procedure is non-reversible.
Your Partner on the Path to a Healthier Life
We believe that choosing bariatric surgery is a courageous step toward a healthier future. Success depends not only on the surgery itself but also on a strong, supportive partnership with a dedicated medical team. All surgical procedures carry risks, and the best way to ensure positive results is to consult with a team that can guide you through the before, during, and aftercare phases of your journey.
At the Doral Health & Wellness Bariatric Center, we offer a program proven to be effective for long-term success. Our team is committed to providing lifelong support to help you maintain a healthy lifestyle. We aim to deliver the best health services with our innovative medical facilities and expert practitioners.
To learn more about our program and begin your journey, please contact Doral Health & Wellness. If you’re ready to take the next step in managing your weight, we recommend consulting with our Bariatric experts to explore the right treatments or therapies for you. Always listen to your body and adjust your daily routine to prioritize your well-being. If you are looking for a weight loss surgery center near you, contact us on +1 718 367 2555 for a consultation with our bariatric doctors. Want to learn more about types of bariatric surgery like Gastric sleeve surgery, Laparoscopic surgery, Gastric bypass surgery, Sleeve gastrectomy, or LAP band surgery? Doral Health and Wellness has the best bariatric doctors and surgeons to treat obesity and weight problems. Book your appointment and walk in at 1797 Pitkin Avenue, Brooklyn, New York 11212.
