Massy Dome, Barbados
Get Appointment
Home / Bariatric Surgery

Bariatric surgery is considered a safe and effective treatment option for those affected by severe obesity. Moreover, these same procedures have also been recognized for their impact on metabolic or hormonal changes that play a major role in hunger (the desire to start eating) and satiety (the desire to stop eating) as well as improvement and/or resolution of conditions that can occur as a result of severe obesity.

However, not all people affected by severe obesity will qualify for bariatric surgery. There are certain criteria that a person must meet in order to be a candidate for bariatric surgery.

There are risks involved with bariatric surgery, as well as any other surgical procedure. Before making a treatment decision, it is important to discuss these risks with your primary care provider and/or surgeon.

Gastric Bypass Procedure Animation

Benefits

Within two to three years after the operation, bariatric surgery usually results in 35-70% excess weight loss, depending on the chosen procedure. Those considering bariatric surgery should discuss their expectations with their physician. Other health concerns associated with obesity such as diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea and others are often reduced or may go into remission.

Risks

Research indicates that some patients who undergo bariatric surgery may have unsatisfac­tory weight-loss or regain much of the weight that they lost. Some behaviors such as frequent snacking on high-calorie foods or lack of exercise can contrib­ute to inadequate weight-loss. Technical problems that may occur after the operation, like separated stitches, may also contribute to inadequate weight-loss.

Bariatric surgery is not the “easy way out.” This treatment option is a tool that patients use to lose weight. Surgery is a resource to help reduce weight and maintain weight-loss. Lifestyle adjustments encompassing behavioral, diet, physical activity and psychological changes are required for you to maintain a healthy quality of life.

Laparoscopic Procedure

In laparoscopic surgery, a small video camera is inserted into the abdomen allowing the surgeon to conduct and view the procedure on a video monitor. Both camera and surgical instruments are inserted through small incisions made in the abdominal wall. The number of incisions will vary depending on the surgical procedure and surgeon experience. Some surgical procedures can be performed via a single incision while other procedures may involve six or more small incisions.

Included in this service

  • Psychological/support counselling
  • Dietetic/nutritional support
  • Nursing services
  • Personal trainer
  • laboratory, X-ray and diagnostic procedures, and interpretation
  • use of the operating room, case room, and anaesthetic facilities required for diagnosis and treatment, including necessary equipment and supplies
  • Lab test

Some of this content is reproduced from: http://www.obesityaction.org/obesity-treatments/bariatric-surgery