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Bariatric surgery refers to a group of surgical procedures designed to help individuals with severe obesity lose weight. These surgeries alter the digestive system to limit food intake, reduce nutrient absorption, or both. Bariatric surgery is typically considered for patients who are severely obese and have not been successful with other weight-loss methods such as diet, exercise, or medication.

Types of Bariatric Surgery:

1. Gastric Bypass (Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass):

• Procedure: The stomach is divided into a small upper pouch and a larger lower section. The small intestine is then rerouted to connect to the small pouch, bypassing most of the stomach and the first part of the small intestine.
• Mechanism: This reduces the amount of food the stomach can hold and limits the absorption of calories and nutrients.
• Benefits: Significant weight loss and improvement in obesity-related conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure.

2. Sleeve Gastrectomy:

• Procedure: About 75-80% of the stomach is removed, leaving a narrow, tube-like sleeve.
• Mechanism: The smaller stomach limits the amount of food that can be eaten and decreases hunger by reducing the production of the hunger hormone ghrelin.
• Benefits: Substantial weight loss with fewer complications than gastric bypass.

Indications for Bariatric Surgery:

• Body Mass Index (BMI): Generally, patients with a BMI of 40 or higher, or a BMI of 35 or higher with obesity-related health conditions like type 2 diabetes, hypertension, or sleep apnea, may qualify for surgery.
• Failed Weight Loss Attempts: Candidates typically have not achieved sustainable weight loss through non-surgical methods.
• Obesity-Related Health Issues: Surgery is often recommended for patients with severe obesity-related health problems that can be improved with weight loss.

Benefits of Bariatric Surgery:

• Significant Weight Loss: Most patients lose a substantial amount of weight, which can be maintained long-term.
• Improvement in Health Conditions: Conditions such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea, and joint pain often improve or resolve after surgery.
• Increased Quality of Life: Many patients experience improved mobility, mental health, and overall quality of life.

Bariatric surgery is a powerful tool for achieving and maintaining significant weight loss, especially for individuals with severe obesity and related health issues. However, it is a major procedure that requires careful consideration and a commitment to lifelong changes in eating and exercise habits.