Bariatric surgery is a popular surgical option for people looking to lose weight. Typically, the stomach is resized or the intestines are rerouted to cause weight loss, which can be accomplished through several different methods. There are several different types of bariatric surgery. The most popular type is known as gastric bypass surgery, which is performed by stapling a portion of the stomach to create a small pouch. The small pouch is then connected to the distal small intestine. At one point it was the most popular weight loss procedure performed in the United States, but today it accounts for less than half of these procedures. Generally, this technique is more successful when gastric bypass patients adhere to a strict and healthy diet. Another procedure is the adjustable gastric band, which functions by restricting the stomach with a silicone band. The size of the silicone band can be changed with saline, which is typically added or taken away from the band via a port placed directly under the skin. This procedure causes weight loss by restricting nutrient intake with the smaller stomach (or gastric pouch) and the narrow outlet created by the band. The band method is one of the safest weight loss measures available, in part because it can be done laparoscopically, or with minimal incisions. Another surgical option is the sleeve gastrectomy. In this procedure, a large part of the stomach is removed, typically leaving around 15% of it behind. What is left of the stomach is either sewn or stapled together in order to create a sleeve or banana-shaped stomach. Like the gastric band procedure, the sleeve gastrectomy can be performed laparoscopically. Unlike the gastric band procedure, though, the sleeve gastrectomy is irreversible. The main benefit of undergoing a sleeve gastrectomy is that it offers the least chance of risk. In fact, recent studies show this approach to be safer and more effective long term than its alternatives. Bariatric surgery may not be for everyone, but it is certainly recommended for several different patients. Typically, it's suggested for patients who have a Body Mass Index (BMI) of at least 40 and for people with diabetes who have a BMI of at least 35. Recently, though, the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery has suggested that patients with a BMI over 30 and have serious weight-related health problems are also good candidates for weight loss surgery. Of course, there has been extensive research on the long-term effects of bariatric surgery. Studies have shown post-operation patients have experienced significant, long-term weight loss, a decrease in weight-related health conditions (diabetes, etc.), and improvements in cardiovascular health ranging from blood pressure to coronary artery diseases. Curious about trying out bariatric surgery? New York specialist, William A. Graber, MD, PC, is here to help! Learn more about your options here: http://www.drgrabermd.com.
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