Bariatric (Weight Loss) Surgery has Proven to be an Exceptional Treatment for Obesity

In recent years, studies have shown that gastric surgery for weight loss (bariatric surgery) has many benefits beyond weight reduction.  Experts such as Dr. Christine Ren-Fielding and Dr. George Fielding may recommend bariatric (weight loss) surgery procedures such as lap band surgery, gastric sleeve surgery, and gastric bypass surgery.  These surgeries are low risk and can help diminish or resolve obesity related health issues such as type 2 diabetes in addition to helping patients lose excess weight.

Gastric Surgery for Weight Loss

Gastric surgery procedures for weight reduction typically involve altering the structure of the stomach, changing nutrient absorption, or both.

Some common procedures include laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (lap band surgery), gastric sleeve surgery (sleeve gastrectomy), and gastric bypass surgery.  Each is performed laparoscopically, which means they are minimally invasive and allow for shorter recovery times since the incisions are so small.

Bariatric Surgery Strategies and Outcomes

Some bariatric (weight loss) surgery procedures are not permanent.  Lap band surgery is reversible and adjustable, for example. During this surgery, a band is placed around the upper portion of the stomach to create a new, smaller stomach pouch. When this pouch fills, it cues feelings of fullness so that calorie consumption is reduced. Because the rest of the stomach remains, however, there are less likely to be issues with nutrient deficiencies than with some of the other procedures.

In contract, gastric sleeve surgery and gastric bypass surgery involve permanently removing part of the stomach.  This helps control appetite, meal size, and also reduces overall nutrient and calorie absorption.  Because of this, it’s important for supplements to be taken long term to prevent nutrient deficiencies.  Although it’s unclear how, these bariatric surgery procedures have also been shown to impact gut hormones positively to positively impact blood sugar and in some cases completely resolve type 2 diabetes.

Bariatric Surgery Consultations with Dr. Christine Ren-Fielding and Dr. George Fielding

For more information about bariatric (weight loss) surgery procedures, including lap band surgery, gastric sleeve surgery, and gastric bypass surgery, please contact the NYU Langone Weight Management Program for an appointment with Dr. Christine Ren-Fielding and Dr. George Fielding.