Diagram of an adjustable gastric band
Losing weight is not easy, whether it be just a few pounds for a special occasion or to look good at the beach or considerably more weight in order to make a dramatic change in your health. Bariatric surgery is a popular weight loss choice for those people who would like to make a dramatic change in their life.
Bariatric surgery is performed on the stomach or intestines to induce weight loss. The basic principle of the procedure is to restrict food intake and reduce absorption of food by the stomach and intestines.
The criteria for bariatric surgery are:
• Body mass index (BMI) over 40
• Disabling pain in weight bearing joints
• Over 100 pounds or more above ideal weight
• Previous attempts at weight loss through diet and exercise have failed
• Obesity related disorders such as high blood pressure, sleep apnea, diabetes, degenerative joint disease
One procedure that people speak about frequently is Lap Band surgery. This is one of the simplest forms of bariatric surgery. It is a minimally invasive technique and is performed laparoscopically. The surgeon places an inflatable silicone band on the upper part of the stomach; this is secured by sutures. The band will be adjusted by injecting a small amount of saline solution into a port. A small pouch will be created which will restrict the amount of food that a person who has this procedure is able to eat. The procedure usually takes one to two hours to perform.
Advantages of Lap Band surgery:
• Reduction in the amount of food that the stomach can hold
• Weight loss is usually 40 – 50 percent
• Short hospital stay
• No cutting or stapling of the stomach or intestines
• It is reversible
• Low rate of post-op complications
• Low risk of vitamin and mineral deficiencies
If you would like to schedule an appointment with a physician at Flushing Hospital to discuss if bariatric surgery is right for you, please call 718-670-8908
All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.