Frequently Asked Questions

Bariatric surgery is a surgical procedure performed on individuals who are severely obese. It helps in weight loss by making changes to your digestive system, typically by restricting food intake or reducing nutrient absorption.

Candidates typically include individuals with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 or higher, or 35 or higher with obesity-related health conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and sleep apnea. A thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional is necessary to determine eligibility.

The most common types of bariatric surgery include:

Gastric Bypass: Creates a small pouch that limits food intake and alters digestion. Sleeve Gastrectomy: Removes a portion of the stomach, resulting in a tube-like structure that reduces appetite.

Adjustable Gastric Band: Places an inflatable band around the upper stomach to create a smaller stomach pouch.

Biliopancreatic Diversion with Duodenal Switch (BPD/DS): A more complex surgery that combines gastric sleeve and intestinal bypass.

While bariatric surgery is not a guaranteed cure, many patients experience significant improvement or even resolution of obesity-related conditions like type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and sleep apnea following weight loss.

Weight loss varies greatly among individuals and depends on the type of surgery performed and personal commitment to lifestyle changes. Many patients lose 50-70% of their excess weight within the first 1-2 years post-surgery.

Yes, post-surgery, you will need to follow a carefully planned diet to aid recovery and ensure optimal weight loss. This typically includes a phased approach starting with clear liquids, progressing to pureed foods, and eventually incorporating solid foods while focusing on high-protein, low-carbohydrate options.

Bariatric surgery typically takes 1-3 hours, depending on the procedure. Recovery times vary; many patients are able to return to light activities within 1-2 weeks, but full recovery can take several weeks. Your surgeon will provide personalized guidelines.

As with any major surgical procedure, bariatric surgery carries risks, including infections, blood clots, leakage from the surgical site, and nutritional deficiencies. It’s essential to discuss these risks with your surgeon to understand your specific situation.

Our practice offers comprehensive post-operative care, including regular follow-up appointments, nutritional counselling, and access to support groups. These resources are essential for maintaining long-term success and lifestyle changes.

Yes, most patients will need to take daily vitamins and minerals for life to prevent nutritional deficiencies. This includes a multivitamin, calcium, vitamin D, and possibly others as recommended by your healthcare team.