About Weight Loss Surgery

About Weight Loss Surgery

Thinking about weight loss surgery? Whether you're exploring gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, or other bariatric procedures, it's important to understand what to expect before, during, and after surgery. In this complete guide to weight loss surgery, we’ll walk you through the different types, eligibility requirements, benefits, risks, and essential lifestyle changes. If you're struggling with obesity or obesity-related conditions and wondering if bariatric surgery is right for you, this is your go-to resource.

Weight loss (bariatric) surgery helps by

Shrinking the stomach (you eat less)

Limiting nutrient/calorie absorption

Reducing hunger hormones

Who Qualifies

BMI ≥ 40

BMI 35–40 + an obesity-related condition (e.g., diabetes, heart disease)

Tried and failed to lose weight through other methods

Types of Surgery

Restrictive Surgeries – Shrink stomach

Gastric Sleeve

Adjustable Gastric Band (Lap-Band)

Restrictive + Malabsorptive – Shrink stomach + bypass intestine

Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass

Biliopancreatic Diversion with Duodenal Switch

Pros & Cons

Pros: Rapid weight loss, improvement in obesity-related diseases

Cons: Requires lifelong diet/lifestyle changes, possible complications

Before Surgery

Medical evaluation

Stop certain meds/supplements

Liquid diet before surgery

General anaesthesia during surgery

Surgical Methods

Laparoscopic (minimally invasive, faster recovery)

Open surgery (larger incision, longer recovery)

Main Procedures Explained

Gastric Bypass: A Small pouch is created; food bypasses most of the stomach and part of the small intestine

Sleeve Gastrectomy

80% of the stomach is removed, which reduces the hunger hormone

Lap-Band

Adjustable ring forms a small pouch; reversible

Biliopancreatic Diversion

Large stomach/intestine bypass; maximum weight loss but highest risk

Recovery & Diet

Short hospital stay

Liquid diet → soft foods → solids

Lifelong nutrition plan

High protein, low sugar/fat, small portions

Daily supplements for vitamins/minerals (especially after malabsorptive surgeries)

Expected Weight Loss

Rapid in the first 3 months (up to 1 lb/day)

Greatest with procedures combining restriction + malabsorption

Health Benefits

May reverse or improve type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, and joint pain

Risks & Complications

Infection, blood clots, ulcers, gallstones, loose skin, nutrient deficiencies

Dumping Syndrome

Rapid food movement causes nausea, sweating, diarrhoea (esp. after gastric bypass)

Lifelong Adjustments

Major changes in eating habits

Regular exercise

Emotional ups and downs are normal – support helps

Plastic surgery for loose skin may be considered after 18 months

Key Takeaways

Surgery is a tool, not a cure

Success requires lifelong commitment

Your medical team will support you with personalised advice on nutrition, mental health, and follow-ups

Weight loss surgery is a powerful tool for fighting obesity and reclaiming your health, but it’s not a quick fix. Success depends on your commitment to lifelong changes in diet, exercise, and follow-up care. With the right guidance, support, and preparation, bariatric surgery can lead to dramatic weight loss and improvement in conditions like type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea, and high blood pressure. Always consult with a certified bariatric surgeon and medical team to decide the best procedure for your needs.