Bariatric surgery, also known as weight-loss surgery, has emerged as a powerful tool for combating obesity. For individuals struggling with severe obesity, where traditional methods such as diet, exercise, or medications have failed, bariatric surgery offers hope for long-term weight management and improved health. This procedure isn’t just about shedding pounds—it can also reduce the risk of serious health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure.

Dr. Manu Shankar, recognized as the best bariatric surgeon in Delhi/NCR, offers a comprehensive approach to bariatric surgery. In this article, we’ll explore how effective bariatric surgery is for obese patients and why it’s becoming an increasingly popular solution for weight management.

What is Bariatric Surgery?

Bariatric surgery refers to a variety of procedures designed to help patients lose weight by making changes to their digestive system. Common types of bariatric surgery include:

• Gastric Bypass: This procedure involves creating a small stomach pouch and rerouting a portion of the small intestine. This limits food intake and reduces calorie absorption.
• Sleeve Gastrectomy: In this procedure, approximately 80% of the stomach is removed, leaving a tube-shaped stomach that is significantly smaller. This reduces the amount of food you can consume, leading to weight loss.
• Adjustable Gastric Banding: A band is placed around the upper portion of the stomach to create a small pouch. The tightness of the band can be adjusted to control the amount of food consumed.
• Biliopancreatic Diversion with Duodenal Switch (BPD/DS): This is a more complex procedure that involves both gastric sleeve surgery and rerouting the intestines. It significantly reduces food intake and calorie absorption.

These surgeries help patients feel full with smaller portions, reducing overall food consumption. Additionally, some procedures, like the gastric bypass, alter the digestion process to decrease nutrient absorption.

Effectiveness of Bariatric Surgery

1. Significant Weight Loss

One of the most remarkable benefits of bariatric surgery is significant and sustained weight loss. On average, patients can lose 50-70% of their excess body weight within the first two years after surgery. This can be life-changing for individuals who have struggled to lose weight through conventional methods.

Studies show that gastric bypass patients typically lose about 60-80% of their excess weight within a year, while those who undergo sleeve gastrectomy may lose 50-70% of their excess weight. Gastric banding patients can lose around 40-50% of their excess weight over time, although the results may take longer.

2. Improvement in Obesity-Related Conditions

Obesity is closely linked to a number of serious health problems. After bariatric surgery, many patients experience significant improvements in or even resolution of these conditions, including:

• Type 2 Diabetes: Bariatric surgery can lead to complete remission of Type 2 diabetes in many patients. Studies indicate that gastric bypass surgery, in particular, can result in long-term remission of diabetes, sometimes without the need for continued medication.
• Hypertension: High blood pressure is a common issue among obese individuals. Bariatric surgery can lead to lower blood pressure levels, reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke.
• Sleep Apnea: Many obese individuals suffer from sleep apnea, a condition where breathing repeatedly stops during sleep. Weight loss surgery can significantly reduce or eliminate the symptoms of sleep apnea.
• Joint Pain: Excess weight puts pressure on joints, leading to pain and mobility issues. Losing weight through bariatric surgery can relieve joint pain and improve overall mobility.

3. Long-Term Health Benefits

Beyond weight loss, bariatric surgery has long-term benefits that can drastically improve quality of life. These include:

• Increased Longevity: Studies show that bariatric surgery can reduce the risk of premature death in obese individuals by improving overall health and reducing the risk of obesity-related diseases.
• Mental Health Improvements: Many patients experience improvements in mental health, self-esteem, and quality of life following surgery. Obesity can lead to depression and anxiety, and the positive physical changes after surgery often help alleviate these issues.
• Better Mobility and Physical Activity: Significant weight loss enables patients to engage in more physical activity, further improving their overall health and fitness.

Is Bariatric Surgery Right for You?

Bariatric surgery is not a one-size-fits-all solution, and it’s important to undergo a thorough evaluation to determine if you are a good candidate for the procedure. Dr. Manu Shankar, the best bariatric surgeon in Delhi/NCR, recommends bariatric surgery for patients who:

• Have a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher.
• Have a BMI of 35-39.9 and suffer from serious obesity-related conditions such as diabetes or heart disease.
• Have been unsuccessful in losing weight through conventional methods like diet and exercise.
• Are prepared to commit to long-term lifestyle changes, including a healthy diet and regular physical activity.

What to Expect After Bariatric Surgery

Bariatric surgery is not a quick fix, but a long-term commitment to weight management. After the surgery, patients must follow a strict diet and exercise regimen to ensure lasting results. In the weeks following surgery, you’ll need to adjust to a new diet, starting with liquids and slowly introducing soft foods and eventually solid foods.

Dr. Manu Shankar emphasizes that regular follow-up appointments are essential to monitor your progress and make adjustments to your diet and lifestyle as needed.

Possible Risks and Side Effects

As with any surgery, bariatric procedures come with risks. These can include:

• Infection
• Blood clots
• Nutritional deficiencies
• Dumping syndrome (when food moves too quickly through the small intestine)

However, with the expertise of a highly experienced surgeon like Dr. Manu Shankar, the risks can be minimized, and the benefits often far outweigh the potential complications.

Conclusion

Bariatric surgery is an effective and life-changing option for individuals struggling with severe obesity. By promoting substantial weight loss and improving obesity-related conditions, this surgery can dramatically improve your health and quality of life. Under the guidance of Dr. Manu Shankar, the best bariatric surgeon in Delhi/NCR, you can embark on a transformative journey toward better health and well-being.

If you’re considering bariatric surgery, consult with Dr. Manu Shankar to learn more about the right procedure for you and take the first step towards a healthier future.