Bariatric surgery is a type of surgery targeted towards patients with obesity. It is also known as bariatric metabolic surgery, weight loss surgery, or obesity surgery. The aim of the surgery is to help patients lose their excess weight.
There are many different ways of reducing the size of the stomach through bariatric surgery. One of the most common types of bariatric surgery in Malaysia is a gastric bypass, also known as a laparoscopic sleeve. It involves resecting and rerouting the small intestines to a small stomach pouch. A part of the stomach removed contains the hunger hormone, ghrelin. This will result in a reduced functional volume of the stomach, which will alter a patient’s response to food both physically and psychologically.
Another option is a scarless technique which involves a single incision through the navel with the operation performed entirely through that small opening. This is followed by the conventional laparoscopic procedure.
Another method is by removing a portion of the stomach through sleeve gastrectomy or duodenal switch procedure, also known as a biliopancreatic diversion. This procedure removes a significant amount of a patient’s stomach and most of the duodenum.
Yet another option is the gastric band. An inflatable band is placed on top of the stomach which helps the patient to feel full with less food. This helps reduce the patient’s food intake.
While bariatric surgery is effective, it is not for everyone. Like any major procedure, there can be risks and side effects. Our specialists can help determine if you are a suitable candidate.
Besides obesity, there are other medical conditions that would benefit from bariatric surgery. This includes diabetes, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, gout and male infertility.
