In general, bariatric surgery refers to surgical procedures for weight loss and any associated health concerns. The term “bariatric” is derived from the Greek words “bar- (baros)” which means “weight, load” and “-iatri (iatrikos)” which means “medical/medical treatment.” Bariatric surgery has a long-term success rate of 68% to 74%, and studies have shown that the good benefits on weight reduction can last for up to 20 years after gastric bypass surgery. Today, bariatric surgery is an efficient treatment approach in situations when diet and exercise alone are ineffective in the treatment of obesity, particularly when health issues caused by weight pose a significant risk.

Although there are various ways of using bariatric surgery today, there are three fundamental types. These include biliopancreatic diversion (BPD), gastric bypass surgery (roux-en-Y), and sleeve gastrectomy. All these conditions, including obesity-related heart disease, hypertension, obstructive sleep apnea, type 2 diabetes, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and osteoarthritis (joint pain), are aimed at curing diseases such as diabetes. Furthermore, it is anticipated that this technique would allow patients to undertake their regular tasks more easily, therefore improving their living standards.

Is Bariatric Surgery the Ultimate Obesity Treatment?

Although the benefit of these surgical procedures is visible in the short term, the individual has significant responsibility for the long-term maintenance of weight loss. Even though the procedure reduces stomach capacity, if nourishment is maintained as before the operation, the stomach can grow and restore its initial shape.

According to a 2020 study, the failure percentage of those who have had bariatric surgery to achieve their personal objectives is between 15-30%. This indicates that one out of every four patients who have surgery fails. Consequently, it is evident that bariatric surgery is not a permanent cure to obesity; yet, it is still a very highly successful treatment.

It is better to think of surgical intervention as a last option for treating obesity and other weight-related disorders. Many aspects must be considered in order to achieve success following bariatric surgery. Changes in eating habits and food choices are, of course, one of these factors.