Bariatric weight loss surgery is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Let your lifestyle be your guide to your conversation with your surgeon about the right procedure for you.
Bariatric weight loss procedures – sleeve gastrectomy, gastric bypass and adjustable gastric banding – are powerful tools that can help patients shed unwanted pounds and regain their health.
Our experts can help you decide on the right weight loss surgery for your lifestyle. Before you choose a weight loss procedure, consider lifestyle factors to determine the best fit.
Weight Loss Goals
With the dedication to physical activity and healthy eating, it’s possible to reach your goal weight after weight loss surgery no matter which procedure you have; however, the average amount of weight lost does vary.
Patients who have gastric bypass surgery typically shed 70 percent of their excess weight, while those with adjustable gastric bands lose an average of 50 percent and those who have sleeve gastrectomy lose an average of 60 percent.
Current Health
Surgeries with shorter procedure times such as sleeve gastrectomy are more appropriate for those who have serious health conditions, such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes and lung disease. Spending less time under anesthesia improves outcomes for candidates who are in poor health.
Work Commitments
Adjustable gastric banding typically has the shortest recovery period. Patients who need to return to work shortly after surgery may find this option most attractive.
Proximity to Clinic
All bariatric weight loss surgery patients follow up with their weight loss surgery team after the procedure. Those follow-ups need to be made more frequently by those who have adjustable gastric banding surgery so the band can be adjusted as needed.
If frequent trips to the clinic are going to be difficult, choose an operation with fewer visits, such as sleeve gastrectomy or gastric bypass surgery.
Commitment and Motivation
For those who crave fast results and need to see that number on the scale drop quickly for health reasons or to maintain motivation, gastric bypass surgery or sleeve gastrectomy may be better choices. These patients typically lose between five and seven pounds a week after surgery and reach their goal weight in about a year.
Eating Habits
Because of the way the digestive system is reconstructed after gastric bypass surgery, certain sugary or starchy foods may be off the menu permanently. Consuming these items can cause cramping and other symptoms of dumping syndrome.
If you know you will occasionally want to indulge in sugar or starch, choose adjustable gastric banding or sleeve gastrectomy. Both preserve the body’s normal digestive process, reducing the risk of nutrient deficiencies and the discomfort of dumping syndrome.