Weight Loss Surgery: Which is Right for Me?

Obesity, the medical term for excessive body fat, has become a significant health concern, affecting millions of individuals worldwide. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than two in five adults in the United States have obesity. Obesity increases the risk for chronic health conditions, which also leads to elevated health care costs.

For those struggling with obesity, weight loss surgery, or bariatric surgery, has emerged as a viable option when conventional methods like diet and exercise have not been effective. Bariatric surgery is a type of surgery designed to help patients lose weight and improve their metabolism. Bariatric surgery may be recommended for people with a body mass index (BMI) greater than 40 or a BMI greater than 35 with at least one comorbidity (an associated medical condition).

There are multiple types of weight loss surgery, with each working in a slightly different way. Among the various bariatric procedures available, finding the safest and most effective surgery for weight loss is crucial for both patients and health care providers. According to Neal T. Holm, MD, with Hattiesburg Clinic Surgery, a patient’s surgery options depend on a variety of factors.

“Selecting the appropriate weight loss surgery involves more than just looking at the immediate outcomes,” Dr. Holm explained. “We consider things like your age, the severity of your obesity and any underlying health conditions to help us determine the most suitable procedure, ensuring that it not only aids in weight loss but also enhances your overall quality of life.”

Benefits of Weight Loss Surgery

Bariatric surgery offers several significant benefits for individuals struggling with severe obesity outside of significant weight loss. Weight loss surgery can improve or resolve many obesity-related health conditions, including type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, heart disease and joint pain. By reducing the risk of these diseases, weight loss surgery not only helps to lower health care costs but also increases life expectancy. Studies have shown that individuals who undergo bariatric surgery have a lower risk of premature death compared to those who do not.

Weight loss surgery can also significantly improve quality of life by enhancing mobility, increasing energy levels and boosting self-confidence. Many individuals report improved mental health following weight loss surgery. The physical transformation can lead to better self-perception and a more positive outlook on life.

Successful outcomes from bariatric surgery require a commitment to significant lifestyle changes. Patients must adhere to a strict diet, starting with liquids and gradually progressing to solid foods. They must also commit to ongoing follow-up care. Nutritional deficiencies are a risk of any weight loss surgery, so patients need to maintain regular check-ups to monitor their nutritional status. Psychological support is also recommended for patients who undergo weight loss surgery to help build a positive body image and foster self-acceptance. It also helps patients build a strong support network, which is crucial for long-term success.

Types of Weight Loss Surgeries

  • Roux-En-Y Gastric Bypass

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass is one of the most commonly performed types of weight loss surgery. It involves creating a small pouch from the stomach and connecting it directly to the small intestine, effectively bypassing a large part of the stomach and the first portion of the small intestine. The new stomach pouch limits how much a patient can eat, and because of the digestive bypass, fewer calories are absorbed. The surgery is typically performed laparoscopically, which means it involves small incisions and the use of a camera to guide the surgeon. Patients typically lose 60 to 80 percent of their excess body weight within the first two years after surgery.

  • Sleeve Gastrectomy

Sleeve gastrectomy, also known as vertical sleeve gastrectomy (VSG), involves the removal of approximately 75 to 80 percent of the stomach, resulting in a tube-like structure or “sleeve.” Because of the reduction in stomach volume, those who undergo the procedure feel fuller more quickly when eating, which leads to reduced food intake and ultimately, weight loss. Patients who undergo a sleeve gastrectomy typically lose 60 to 70 percent of their excess weight within the first year.

  • Other Surgeries

In addition to the Roux-en-Y gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy, patients also have the option of gastric banding or biliopancreatic diversion with a duodenal switch. However, due to the higher risk of complications associated with these procedures, they are less commonly performed. Long-term weight loss is also less substantial with gastric banding, with patients only losing around 40 to 50 percent of their excess weight.

Choosing a Weight Loss Surgery

Choosing a weight loss surgery depends on individual patient factors such as age, overall health and pre-existing medical conditions. A thorough evaluation by a bariatric surgeon and a multidisciplinary team is essential to determine the most suitable procedure for each patient.

Daniel H. Smith, MD, a surgeon with Hattiesburg Clinic Surgery, has years of expertise in guiding patients to the type of bariatric procedure that is best for their individual needs. “Each surgical option, whether it’s gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy or another procedure, has distinct advantages and considerations,” Dr. Smith said. “By working together, we can select the best approach that aligns with your health goals and supports sustainable weight management.”

Why Choose Hattiesburg Clinic

If you believe you may be a candidate for bariatric surgery, the board-certified surgeons at Hattiesburg Clinic can help you determine the procedure that is right for you. We offer a full range of safe and effective procedures, including sleeve gastrectomy and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, as well as revision of sleeve gastrectomy, revision of Roux-en-Y gastric bypass and lap band removal.

“Weight loss surgery is not a one-size-fits-all solution; it’s about finding the right fit for your unique situation,” Holm emphasized. “We are here to talk through your personal health goals and any concerns you may have and to be your partner in your weight loss journey.”

To learn more about bariatric surgery, as well as other services offered at Hattiesburg Clinic Surgery, visit www.hattiesburgclinic.com/general-surgery.