Obesity surgery, also known as bariatric surgery, is a surgical procedure performed to help individuals with severe obesity lose weight by making changes to their digestive system.

Candidates for obesity operation typically have a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher, or a BMI of 35 or higher with obesity-related health conditions such as type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure.

Common types of obesity surgery include gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, adjustable gastric banding, and biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch. Each type works differently to help patients lose weight.

Obesity operation works by reducing the size of the stomach, limiting the amount of food that can be eaten at one time, and/or altering the way food is digested. This leads to reduced calorie intake and often significant weight loss.

Risks and complications can include infection, bleeding, blood clots, gastrointestinal leaks, and nutritional deficiencies. It’s important for patients to discuss these risks with their healthcare provider.

After surgery, patients must make significant lifestyle changes including adopting a healthy diet, increasing physical activity, and attending regular follow-up appointments with their healthcare team.

Weight loss varies depending on the type of surgery and individual factors such as starting weight and adherence to post-surgery guidelines. On average, patients can expect to lose 50-70% of their excess body weight within the first 2 years after surgery.

Some types of obesity surgery, such as gastric banding, are reversible, while others, like gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy, are generally considered permanent. Reversibility depends on the specific procedure and individual circumstances.