Weight loss surgery is a resort for many people who suffer from bariatric, aiming to alter the digestive system’s structure. In addition to helping to lose weight, they also control bariatric-related conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. One of the most common weight loss surgeries is gastric sleeve surgery. This procedure is performed using an endoscope, in which approximately 80% of the stomach is removed, leaving a tube-like part of it.

What standards must be met to perform weight loss surgery?

Before undergoing bariatric surgery, you must first think about whether this option is suitable for you or not.

What determines this for you is the healthcare team specializing in bariatric surgery. Then you can decide through the steps the team uses to determine your readiness for weight loss surgery.

You must carefully consider the benefits and risks, follow your preoperative and postoperative plans, and resolve to follow a nutrition and exercise program that you will stick to for the rest of your life.

How can you prepare for surgery?

If your condition is suitable for bariatric surgery, the healthcare team will provide you with instructions and advice on how to prepare for the type of surgery specified for you. You will also be asked to perform some examinations and laboratory tests, and there are instructions regarding food, drink, and medications that can be taken. You will certainly be asked to quit smoking and practice some  Physical activities.

Types of bariatric surgery?

Gastric sleeve surgery

It is one of the most common bariatric surgeries. It is an easy and quick operation. It is performed using a medical endoscope. A large part of the stomach is removed and part of it is left in the form of a tube. This reduces the size of the stomach and thus the amount of food eaten will decrease.

Gastric bypass surgery

The doctor divides the stomach into two parts. In the upper part of the stomach, he creates a small cavity and connects part of the small intestine to this cavity, thus reducing the amount of food eaten.

Gastric banding surgery

In it, a band is tied around the upper part of the stomach, and when eating, it passes through the upper part of the stomach over the band, making the person feel full, and then it passes in its natural form into the stomach.

Gastric balloon surgery

It is a non-surgical procedure and a balloon containing a sterile solution is placed inside the stomach using an endoscope. The balloon is left for a period ranging from six to nine months until the desired weight is reached.

Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty

The stomach is made smaller so that it can take in less food, making you feel full when you eat.

What to do after bariatric surgery?

After undergoing bariatric surgery, and to obtain a good result from it, you must follow the following:

Follow all the doctor’s instructions recommended for the rest of your life, especially the first weeks after the operation.
  Follow a good diet to maintain the results of the operation and keep your health first.
Perform physical exercises that benefit your body and maintain your new weight.
Take nutritional supplements such as vitamins and minerals, as the body absorbs them less after the operation. The specialist doctor determines the quantity of these supplements and whether you need them or not.

Risks of weight loss surgery

Although the results of these operations are very clear and lead to weight loss, it is possible to lose about 60% or more of your excess weight, there are some risks, as is the case with any other surgical operation, and the risks may include:

Severe bleeding occurs.
Bacterial infection.
Low blood sugar.
Leaks from the cut edge of the stomach.
The band may shift position and slip, leading to food leakage and intestinal obstruction.
Lung or breathing problems.
Blood clots.

Dr. Samir Al Rahmani, the best surgeon in Dubai and a consultant in the field of bariatric, laparoscopic surgery, and general surgery, advises the necessity of continuous follow-up after the operation with your doctor, and you can contact him through the number: