Weight Loss Surgeries: Effectiveness and Risks

Weight loss surgeries are surgical procedures used to treat severe obesity and related health problems. These surgeries are an option when other methods have not been effective.

This article reviews the types of surgeries used to reduce weight, their effectiveness, and their risks. 

Types of Weight Loss Surgeries 

Gastric Bypass

This operation involves bypassing part of the stomach and connecting it directly to the small intestine. This modification reduces stomach capacity and nutrient absorption, resulting in weight loss. Its benefits include improving blood sugar levels and heart health and reducing the risk of chronic obesity. 

Gastric Balloon

This process involves placing a metal balloon filled with water or air inside the stomach. The balloon reduces stomach capacity and increases satiety, which leads to eating less and losing weight. The gastric balloon is not a permanent surgery and is removed after a specified period. The main benefits of this process are rapid weight loss and improved satiety. 

Sleeve Gastrectomy

This operation is one of the most popular weight loss surgeries. It involves removing a large portion of the stomach, which leads to reduced stomach capacity, decreased appetite, and weight loss. In addition, the benefits of gastrectomy are improved blood sugar levels, heart health, and an overall better quality of life. 

Gastric Banding

This is a reversible procedure that involves placing a rubber ring around the upper part of the stomach. The belt reduces stomach capacity and appetite, which leads to weight loss. In addition, the tightness in the ring can be adjusted to control the rate of weight loss. The main benefits of sleeve gastrectomy include sustained weight loss and the ability to adjust the ring as needed. 

Risks of weight loss Surgeries 

Weight loss procedures are very effective and have shown impressive results for many people. These surgeries reduce the stomach size or change the food path in the digestive tract, resulting in less food consumption and calorie absorption. This allows morbidly obese people to lose significant weight and improve overall health.

However, people should know the risks associated with weight loss surgery. These risks may include: 

• Surgical complications:  They include food leakage, infections, blood clots, and bone decay. It may require intensive post-operative care and close monitoring by the medical team.
• Nutrient deficiencies: After surgery, there may be difficulty in adequately absorbing essential nutrients, which requires close cooperation and monitoring by the medical team and the patient. Appropriate nutritional supplements should be taken to prevent vitamin and mineral deficiencies.
• Psychological changes: The patient may face psychological challenges after surgery, such as depression, anxiety, or an eating disorder. The person may need psychological support and guidance from a psychologist to deal with these changes.
• The necessity of lifestyle changes: People must realize that surgery is not a panacea for weight loss. After surgery, individuals must eat a healthy diet and exercise regularly to lose weight and achieve sustainable results.

It is essential that people interested in weight loss surgery consult with a qualified medical team and fully understand the benefits and potential risks of the surgery. Individuals should also adhere to the post-operative instructions and follow-up necessary to maintain their health and safety. The decision to have bariatric surgery should be made based on a thorough assessment of the benefits and risks and in consultation with the treating medical team.