Are bariatric surgeries for everyone?

Obesity and overweight are associated with various diseases that may affect the quality of life and even cause death. Lately, the media also tend to warn about the degree of vulnerability of an obese person to suffer complications from COVID-19.

Bariatric surgeries are surgical interventions focused on treating obesity. The gastric sleeve has therefore become an option for obese patients, who are significantly overweight and have risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and cardiovascular diseases.

According to Dr. Fernando Salazar, Gastroenterologist of our clinic, this procedure restricts the volumetric capacity of the stomach so that it fills up faster and with less food: “It is an irreversible surgery. The stomach is reduced forever, the weight loss is significant, and it is a laparoscopic procedure.”

Depending on how much weight you need to lose, there are different medical treatments and procedures, such as endoscopic balloon placement. This will act as a restrictive element and will make the patient feel full by only eating the third part of the plate that is usually served.

This alternative allows you to lose weight at a good pace, however, you must follow a balanced diet, low in fat, sweets, and carbohydrates. Nutritional and psychological support is essential to achieve positive results in the medium and long term.

Dr. Fernando Salazar Muente
Gastroenterologist at Clínica Ricardo Palma