Types of Bariatric Surgery

There are several types of bariatric weight loss surgery. Only you and your surgeon can decide which is right for you. Once you qualify as a candidate for bariatric surgery, your next step is to learn about each type of surgery to discover what you will need to do to prepare for each, and what you will need to do after the surgery for the best results.

Your surgeon will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each operation and help you decide which procedure is best for you.

It is also helpful to have the support of a family member or friend as you are considering weight loss surgery. We encourage you to bring someone with you to your initial consultation with your surgeon. Discussing your thoughts and feelings regarding the different types of surgery with this person may help you to make this decision more comfortably.

Surgical Options

The technique and method of weight loss is different for each procedure, but the goal is the same: to lose weight reduce or eliminate related health issues, and live a longer, healthier life.

Start considering which procedure seems to best fit your goals.

Gastric Sleeve — during this operation, your stomach is cut into a long, thin tube like a sleeve. This operation functions mainly by restricting the amount of calories you ingest, and since a large portion of your stomach is removed, your hormone production in the gastrointestinal tract is altered, leading to your feeling full sooner. Learn more about the gastric sleeve.

Gastric Bypass — during this restrictive procedure, your surgeon creates a gastric pouch about the size of an egg from the upper part of your stomach. As a result, you eat less food. Learn more about the gastric bypass.

Other Options — in some instances, if you have had bariatric surgery, you may need revision surgery to enhance the results or fix issues related to the previous procedure. In certain circumstances, a gastric band that restricts the amount of food you can eat comfortably, a duodenal switch is an option that limits the amount of calories and nutrients your body absorbs. We also offer various endoscopic treatments as possible options for bariatric treatment. Learn more about your other options.