Commonly called weight loss surgery, Bariatric Surgery includes a variety of procedures performed on people struggling with morbid obesity. Bariatric Surgery is truly life changing considering obesity can cause some serious health risks for those living with it.
Dr. Nelson performs various bariatric operations including Gastric Bypass, Sleeve Gastectomy, Biliopancreatic Diversion with Duodenal Switch and Gastric Banding. Read the descriptions below to learn more.
- Gastric Bypass: This is the most studied weight loss operation and is very effective. This procedure reduces caloric intake by making the stomach smaller and decreases the amount of calories that are absorbed by bypassing a segment of the intestines.
- Sleeve Gastectomy: This bariatric procedure reduces the stomach to 20% of its’ original size and reduces the hormone that makes you feel hungry. Many patients choose this operation because it is lower risk than a Gastric Bypass and patients often have excellent weight loss that is frequently more than with Gastric Banding.
- Biliopancreatic Diversion with Duodenal Switch: Typically indicated for heavier weight patients (usually BMI >50). This procedure combines a sleeve gastrectomy with intestinal bypass resulting in significant weight loss. This procedure generally produces the most amount of weight loss compared to the other bariatric procedures.
- Gastric Band/Lap-Band: While done less frequently than other bariatric operations the Gastric Band still is performed today. With the Gastric Band there is no division of the bowel. The band is placed around the top portion of the stomach and connected to a port which sits under the skin. Patients undergo adjustments in the office to help reduce the intake of food and help with weight loss.