Weight Loss Surgery (Bariatric Surgery)

If you are considering bariatric surgery, you should know that several distinct procedures exist. They vary in the level of invasiveness and risk, and only the morbidly obese (at least 100 pounds over ideal body weight) qualify. There is a lot of information about these procedures on the internet, but much of it is biased. Medicine is a business, and doctors who advertise bariatric surgery on their websites may minimize the serious health risks involved. When trying to find out more about this type surgery, you will find it very difficult to find impartial information on the internet. Many of the websites either take a stance against or for the surgery without giving fair treatment to both sides of the argument. To find information on the internet about bariatric surgery, avoid personal testimonials and individual doctor's websites (or anything that looks like its trying to sell a procedure). You might also want to read peer reviewed medical journals if you have access. Once you are educated, you should consult with your doctor to ascertain if surgery is the best method of weight loss for you.

There are basically two types of bariatric surgery: procedures that alter the stomach, and procedures that alter both the stomach and the intestines. Both induce weight loss, but the variety that affects both your stomach and intestines usually has better long-term results. Neither is risk-free, and each has possible complications and side effects that can last for years after the surgery.