Bariatric Surgery
Also known as weight loss or metabolic surgery, bariatric surgery is a proven treatment approach for the management of excess weight, obesity and diabetes. The goal is for patients to lose most of their excess weight, treat associated illnesses such as diabetes or high blood pressure and experience a healthier and improved lifestyle. Bariatric surgery includes a variety of different surgical procedures, generally performed laparoscopically (key-hole surgery) which all work in slightly different ways to help improve and enhance weight loss. Bariatric procedures can generally be categorised as “restrictive”, “malabsorptive” or a combination of both. Deciding which procedure is right for you can be challenging, and your surgeon will explain all of your options and offer a recommendation that is tailored to your needs, your weight and your previous history.
The most common procedures in Australia are the Laparoscopic sleeve Gastrectomy, Laparoscopic adjustable Gastric Band and Laparoscopic Gastric Bypass. There are also other procedures available for patients with particular needs.