According to Ismael Bailon MD, FACS from The Center for Bariatrics in Tijuana, Mexico -Weight loss surgery, sometimes called bariatric surgery, is a treatment for people who are severely obese. It makes the stomach smaller so it feels fuller sooner and less food is eaten.

To be considered for weight loss surgery the patient will usually need a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or more and have tried to lose weight through a healthy diet, exercise and medicine. Patients will also need to agree to lifestyle and diet changes and regular check-ups after surgery.

What is weight loss surgery?

Weight-loss surgery changes the shape and function of the digestive system. This surgery may help a person lose weight and manage medical conditions related to obesity. These conditions include diabetes, obstructive sleep apnea, and risk factors for heart disease and stroke.

Weight-loss surgery is also known as bariatric surgery. There are various surgical procedures, but all of them help a person lose weight by limiting how much food a person can eat. Some procedures also limit the amount of nutrients a person can absorb.

Weight-loss surgery is only one part of an overall treatment plan. The treatment will also include nutrition guidelines, exercise and mental health care. A patient will need to be willing and able to follow this long-term plan to achieve your weight-loss goals.

Why Weight Loss Surgery?

Reasons for weight loss surgery:

• Patient has a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or more
• Patient has a BMI between 35 and 40 and a condition that might improve if patient loses weight — these include high blood pressure, diabetes, arthritis, breathing problems and asthma
• Patient has tried dieting, exercise and other weight loss methods, but has struggled to lose weight or keep it off
• Patient agrees to make healthy lifestyle changes and attend regular check-ups after surgery

If patient’s BMI is 50 or over, surgery may be considered without needing to try other weight loss methods first.

Weight Loss Surgery Procedures

The most common weight-loss surgery procedures are:

• Gastric Sleeve
• Gastric Bypass
• Duodenal Switch
• Intragastric Balloon
• Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty
• Transoral Outlet Reduction

Is weight loss surgery right for you?

Dr. Ismael Bailon, through an online consultation, will help the patient determine whether this is an appropriate option.

The process the team uses to determine if a patient is ready for weight-loss surgery is also there to help them make an informed decision. The patient will need to consider the benefits and risks, follow through with pre-surgery and post-surgery plans, and make a lifelong commitment to a new nutrition and exercise program.