Bariatric Surgery
Bariatric surgery refers to a group of weight-loss operations that change the digestive system to help patients lose weight. The most common types are sleeve gastrectomy (removing 80% of the stomach to create a tube-shaped pouch) and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (creating a small stomach pouch and re-routing the small intestine). These procedures not only promote weight loss but also significantly improve or resolve obesity-related conditions like type 2 diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnoea, and joint pain.
🔬 How the Procedure Is Performed
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The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia using a laparoscopic (keyhole) approach.
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For sleeve gastrectomy: ~80% of the stomach is removed, leaving a banana-shaped sleeve.
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For gastric bypass: a small stomach pouch (~30 ml) is created and connected directly to the small intestine, bypassing most of the stomach and upper intestine.
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Surgical staples and sutures secure all connections.
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A leak test is performed before closing the incisions.
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The patient is moved to the ward and monitored for 2–3 days.
✅ Benefits of Bariatric Surgery
- ✓Sustained long-term weight loss (50–70% excess weight loss)
- ✓Resolution or significant improvement of type 2 diabetes in most patients
- ✓Reduction in blood pressure and cholesterol
- ✓Relief from sleep apnoea and joint pain
- ✓Improved quality of life and mobility
📋 How to Prepare
- Complete a thorough pre-operative programme including dietitian, psychiatry, and medical evaluation.
- Lose some weight pre-operatively (often required) to reduce liver size and surgical risk.
- Stop smoking at least 6 weeks before surgery.
- Begin taking prescribed multivitamins and protein supplements pre-operatively.
- Fast from midnight the night before surgery.
⚠️ Possible Risks & Side Effects
- Anastomotic leak — requires urgent re-operation
- Nutritional deficiencies (iron, vitamin B12, calcium) — managed with supplements
- Dumping syndrome after gastric bypass (nausea, flushing after sugary foods)
- Gallstone formation during rapid weight loss
- Blood clots (DVT/PE) — prevented with blood thinners and early mobilisation
Your surgeon will discuss all risks with you before the procedure and take appropriate precautions to minimise them.
💊 Post-Procedure Care
- Progress through liquid → pureed → soft → normal diet over 4–6 weeks.
- Take prescribed vitamin and mineral supplements lifelong.
- Attend regular follow-up appointments at 1, 3, 6, 12 months and annually.
- Exercise regularly — start with walking and build up to 150 minutes per week.
- Avoid high-sugar and high-fat foods to prevent dumping syndrome.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for bariatric surgery?
Patients with a BMI ≥40, or BMI ≥35 with obesity-related conditions (diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnoea), who have not achieved sustained weight loss through diet and exercise.
Will I regain weight after surgery?
Some weight regain is possible years later if dietary guidelines are not followed. Long-term success depends on lifestyle changes and regular follow-up.
How much weight will I lose?
Most patients lose 50–70% of their excess body weight within 12–18 months. Results vary based on the type of surgery, adherence to diet, and physical activity.
🏥 Bariatric Surgery at Iswarya Hospital
Led by Prof. Dr. G. Manoharan, one of India's most distinguished Surgical Gastroenterologists and Liver Transplant Specialists, specializing in advanced surgeries for gastrointestinal, liver, pancreatic, and biliary disorders.
ℹ️ This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Individual treatment plans may vary. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any medical decisions.