Weight Loss Surgery

Gastric Sleeve – Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy of the stomach (GS) – the operation consists in reducing the volume of the stomach by about 75-80 percent. After the procedure, the stomach retains its digestive functions. With a reduction of the stomach size, the amount of food taken is also reduced, which facilitates the treatment of obesity.

Gastric bypass (RYGB) – this is an operation of the gastrointestinal tract. It consist in the connection of a small part of the stomach directly with the small intestine, so food bypass most of the stomach and enters into the middle part of the small intestine. The bypassed part of the stomach supports the production of digestive juices. The result is eating food in a smaller amount and limiting its absorption.

Laparoscopic Mini-gastric bypass (OAGB) – consists in the formation of an elongated gastric capsule connected directly to the small intestine, completely bypassing the stomach. After the operation, the food does not enter the stomach, while the organ further supports the digestive process by producing digestive juices.

Gastric balloon – this inoperable method of treating obesity is based on the introduction of a balloon into the interior of the stomach. It is filled with liquid that presses on the walls of the stomach and gives the impression of satiation. There is no danger of damage to the gastric balloon, making the treatment safe and effective.

According to the guidelines of the Scientific Societies, patients with BMI > 40 or > 32-35 with concomitant diseases are eligible for bariatric surgery.

Qualifications for bariatric surgery:

• with a BMI ≥ 40, or more than 45 kg overweight
• BMI > 35 and at least one of the concomitant diseases (coexisting conditions)
• BMI ≥ 32-35 and at least two concomitant factors associated with obesity e.g. type II diabetes, hypertension, apnea and other respiratory diseases, fatty liver disease, osteoarthritis, lipid disorders, gastrointestinal disorders or heart disease
• Inability to achieve a healthy body weight, lasting despite many attempts at losing weight

Can I undergo laparoscopic surgery if I have had other abdominal surgery, a hernia or a stoma in the past?

Yes. Be sure to tell your surgeon and anaesthetist about all previous operations, especially those on the abdomen and pelvis.

Can I undergo laparoscopic surgery if I have heart disease?

Yes, but you may need a medical certificate from a Cardiologist. Bariatric surgery leads to the improvement of most problems associated with heart disease, including: high blood pressure, cholesterol, lipid problems, vascular diseases.

Can I stop some medications after surgery?

When you lose weight, you may be able to reduce or eliminate the need to take many medications for high blood pressure, heart disease, arthritis, cholesterol or diabetes. You may be able to reduce the dose or stop using antidiabetic drugs shortly after surgery. Be sure to consult with your doctor about drug withdrawal.

Do I have to quit smoking before and after surgery?

Smoking leads to a decrease in blood supply to the body’s tissues and delays wound healing. Smoking harms any organ in the body and can increase the risk of developing: stomach ulcers, heart disease, catal ity, cancer.

Will I have to undergo plastic surgery after surgery?

Most patients have loose or flabby skin after treatment, but it is often temporary, not always prolonged. You will experience many changes between 6 and 18 months after surgery. Your individual appearance after treatment depends on several things, including weight, age, genetics and whether you exercise.

Do I need to avoid caffeine and carbonated drinks after bariatric surgery?

Yes, if possible. In the first weeks after the procedure, we should avoid coffee and carbonated drinks.

What happens if I don’t take enough protein?

The body needs additional protein during the period of rapid weight loss to maintain muscle mass. Protein is also required for proper metabolism. If you do not provide enough protein in your diet, the body will take protein from the muscles and you can become weakened.

Can I drink alcohol after surgery?

Alcohol is not recommended after bariatric surgery, because it contains so-called empty calories – it does not provide adequate nutrients, and provides large amounts of calories that can be deposited in adipose tissue. Alcohol can be absorbed into the body more quickly after bariatric surgery. We recommend not to consume alcohol until minimum six months after surgery.

If I couldn’t get pregnant before the procedure, then I don’t have to worry about contraception after surgery?

An increase in fertility may occur soon after surgery. Therefore, it is important to use a barrier contraceptive method, such as a intrauterine insole or condoms and spermicide agent, so as not to get pregnant. Birth control pills are a much less effective preventive measure in patients with obesity and in the rapid weight loss phase.

Is pregnancy safe after bariatric surgery?

It is recommended to avoid pregnancy for 18-24 months after surgery. This allows you to achieve maximum weight loss and achieve stable weight. For some time after the procedure will be very limited intake of nutrients.