Bariatric Surgery
What is Obesity?
Obesity is known as the accumulation of fat in the body. This accumulation occurs abnormally and excessively. The increase in fat tissue accumulated in the body can cause many health problems. In particular, an increase in fat tissue accumulating around the abdomen is highly dangerous as it prevents organs from functioning properly. It forms the basis of significant diseases. Due to fat tissue, there are also differences in certain hormone levels in the body. However, individuals may experience feelings of fatigue, increased appetite, and frequent eating urges. Obesity, which is increasing rapidly worldwide, is so serious that it can lead to death if preventive measures are not taken. Obesity is especially seen to increase in older age groups.
What is Bariatric Surgery?
Bariatric surgery is performed on individuals with a high body mass index or who are overweight and face health problems as a result. The goal is to help the person return to their normal weight. Due to weight loss after surgery, related diseases may decrease or even be completely eliminated.
In some cases, obesity surgeries are applied. These cases are listed below:
- Individuals with a body mass index exceeding 40
- Situations where obesity-related diseases pose a serious threat
- Cases where obesity does not decrease with treatment, and the patient cannot lose weight through dieting
- Absence of hormonal diseases
- Not smoking or consuming alcohol
Obesity Treatment
Treatments vary according to the needs of the patients. In general, three methods are applied in obesity treatment. These methods include restrictive techniques, those that impair nutrient absorption, and combined techniques that both restrict intake and impair absorption. Among these, gastric balloon surgery is one of the most popular procedures today. In addition, surgical operations and drug treatments can also be applied.
Frequently Asked Questions
Obesity surgery is a surgical procedure performed to address severe weight issues. The most common types of obesity surgery include gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy (gastric sleeve), gastric banding, and intragastric balloon. These surgeries work by reducing the size of the stomach, which limits food intake and promotes weight loss.
Obesity surgery is generally recommended for individuals with a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher, or those with a BMI of 35 or higher who have obesity-related health issues such as diabetes, hypertension, or sleep apnea. It may also be suitable for those who have struggled to lose weight through diet and exercise or have difficulty maintaining long-term weight loss.
The recovery process varies depending on the individual and the type of surgery. Generally, patients are typically discharged from the hospital within a few days. The first few weeks involve transitioning to liquids and soft foods, followed by the introduction of solid foods. Regular follow-up appointments and lifestyle changes are essential. Full recovery can take a few months, and significant weight loss continues for 1-2 years post-surgery.