Bariatric Surgery
Bariatric surgery, is commonly known as weight loss surgery: it refers to the various surgical procedures performed to treat obesity by modification of the gastrointestinal tract to reduce nutrient intake and/or absorption. The term does not include procedures for surgical removal of body fat such as liposuction or abdominoplasty.
For individuals who have been unable to achieve significant weight loss through diet modifications and exercise programs alone, bariatric surgery may help to attain a more healthy body weight. There are a number of surgical options available to treat obesity, each with their advantages and pitfalls. Generally, bariatric surgery is successful in producing (often substantial) weight loss, though one must consider operative risk (including mortality) and side effects before making the decision to pursue this treatment option.
An excellent resource to become educated about the options involved in bariatric surgery is the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS) is the largest society for this specialty in the world.
The vision of the Society is to improve public health and well being by lessening the burden of the disease of obesity and related diseases throughout the world.
Founded in 1983, foremost American surgeons have formed the society’s leadership and have established an excellent organization with educational and support programs for surgeons and integrated health professionals. The purpose of the society is to advance the art and science of bariatric surgery by continued encouragement of its members.
Always consult a licensed medical doctor or medical care facility regarding a medical procedure.
