There are several weight loss surgery options to help individuals manage obesity and improve long-term health. Each type of surgery works differently, from reducing stomach size to changing how the body absorbs nutrients. Understanding these options helps you choose the approach that best fits your goals and medical needs. Here’s an overview of the common weight loss surgery options available:
Gastric Bypass Surgery
Gastric bypass, or Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, is a well-established weight loss procedure. The surgery involves creating a small stomach pouch and connecting it directly to the small intestine. By doing this, the procedure limits the amount of food you can eat and reduces the absorption of calories and nutrients.
The procedure has two key components. First, the surgeon divides the stomach into a small upper pouch and a much larger lower section. The small intestine is then divided and rerouted to connect to the newly created small stomach pouch. This setup allows food to bypass most of the stomach and the first part of the small intestine, limiting how much is digested.
Gastric Sleeve Surgery
Gastric sleeve surgery, or sleeve gastrectomy, is another common weight loss procedure. This weight loss surgery focuses on reducing the size of the stomach to limit food intake, but it does not involve rerouting the intestines. During the procedure, a surgeon removes a large portion of the stomach, leaving behind a smaller, banana-shaped “sleeve.” The surgery helps you feel full after eating small amounts of food by making your stomach smaller. The procedure removes the part of the stomach that produces most of the “hunger hormone” ghrelin, leading to a significant reduction in appetite.
Adjustable Gastric Band (Lap Band)
The adjustable gastric band, commonly known as the Lap Band, is a type of restrictive bariatric surgery. This procedure involves placing an inflatable silicone band around the upper part of the stomach, creating a small pouch above the band. The band restricts the amount of food the stomach can hold at a time, making you feel full sooner. Your surgeon can add or remove saline through a port placed under the skin to tighten or loosen the band, thereby adjusting the size of the stomach opening. This procedure is also reversible, as the band can be removed if necessary.
Single Anastomosis Duodenal Interposition (SADI) Surgery
Single Anastomosis Duodenal Interposition, or SADI, is a more recent and complex weight loss procedure. It combines elements of a sleeve gastrectomy with an intestinal bypass. This dual-approach surgery is effective for significant weight loss, and it offers long-term results for many patients.
The procedure begins with a sleeve gastrectomy, in which the surgeon reduces the stomach’s size. Following that, the small intestine is surgically rerouted. The first part of the small intestine, the duodenum, is divided just after the stomach, and a loop of the lower intestine is then connected to it. This modification means food bypasses a significant portion of the small intestine, reducing calorie and fat absorption.
Book Your Weight Loss Surgery Consultation
Each type of weight loss surgery has specific characteristics and outcomes. Gastric bypass and SADI surgery modify the stomach and the intestines, while gastric sleeve surgery only reduces stomach size. The adjustable gastric band offers a less permanent, reversible option. Contact a certified bariatric surgeon near you to book your surgical weight loss appointment today.
