How Much Weight Can You Lose with Bariatric Surgery?

Close to half of the United States' adult population faces obesity challenges. If you fall into this category, you have options. Bariatric surgery is a weight loss surgery proven to reduce body fat drastically. Let's learn more about how much weight you can lose with bariatric surgery.

What Is Bariatric Surgery?

Bariatric surgery is any form of weight loss surgery. Your nurse practitioner or regular doctor might suggest bariatric surgery if your weight affects your health. Conditions like heart disease, diabetes, sleep apnea, and types of cancer are linked to obesity. Diet and exercise might not be an option to overcome these health challenges. Your weight might be affecting your ability to exercise. 

In this case, it's time to evaluate your bariatric surgery options. The most popular surgical options include: 

Gastric Sleeve

A sleeve gastrectomy (gastric sleeve) is a procedure that separates and removes most of the stomach from the body. The doctor then shapes the remaining portion of the stomach into a shirtsleeve-like shape, hence the name. With a smaller stomach, you will feel a reduction in hunger. Your meal portions will also be much smaller. 

Gastric Band

A laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding procedure (lap-band) involves creating a small pouch within the stomach. Your doctor will use a rubber-like ring containing an inflatable balloon on the upper part of your stomach. The band will stay in place. The process will create dietary restrictions by restricting how much you can fit into your stomach. You can adjust this band to fit your nutritional needs. 

Gastric Bypass 

A laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery creates a small upper pouch and a larger lower pouch within the stomach. Your doctor will then cut and attach your small intestine from the larger pouch to the smaller pouch. Then food will flow directly from the smaller pocket into the small intestine, creating malabsorption. The larger pocket will still function by creating digestive juices to help break down food. 

Expected Weight Loss After Bariatric Surgery

After undergoing bariatric surgery, you're likely eager to see the results on the scale. It's natural to wonder how much weight you can expect to lose following the procedure. The amount of weight you'll lose varies depending on several factors, including the type of surgery you undergo, your preoperative weight, and how well you adhere to postoperative guidelines.

Gastric bypass surgery, one of the most common types, often results in significant weight loss in the first year, with patients typically losing 60% to 80% of their excess body weight. This initial weight loss is usually followed by slower progress over the following years. Gastric sleeve surgery, another popular option, can lead to similar weight loss outcomes, with patients typically losing 50% to 70% of their excess weight within the first year.

Adjustable gastric banding, while less invasive, generally results in slower weight loss compared to other procedures. Patients undergoing this surgery might lose around 40% to 50% of their excess weight within the first year. Lastly, biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch (BPD/DS) is a more complex procedure that often yields substantial weight loss, with patients potentially losing 60% to 70% of their excess weight within the first year.

It's important to understand that these numbers are averages and individual results can vary. Factors such as your starting weight, age, overall health, and adherence to postoperative guidelines all play a role in determining your weight loss outcomes. Additionally, while significant weight loss can be achieved in the first year following surgery, some patients may experience slower progress or even weight regain in the years that follow.

It's also worth noting that bariatric surgery is not a quick fix or a standalone solution for weight loss. To maximize your results and maintain long-term success, you'll need to commit to making lifestyle changes, including adopting a healthy diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and attending follow-up appointments with your healthcare team.

Why Am I Not Losing Weight After Bariatric Surgery?

Weight loss surgery is like any other weight loss journey. You will find yourself reaching a plateau and might notice weight fluctuations down the road. The most critical part of weight loss is changing your lifestyle. Ensure that you are:

• Eating three small meals a day
• Eating slowly
• Avoiding snacks
• Getting regular exercise
• Getting the proper vitamins and nutrients
• For this weight loss venture to succeed, you must maintain a healthy lifestyle. 

BASS Medical Group

BASS Bariatric Surgery Center is a bariatric surgery center operating since 2002. You can expect higher weight loss with fewer complication risks by choosing BASS Medical's team of skilled surgeons. Reach out today by visiting our website to start living the life you deserve.