Procedures Available
Interested in learning more about weight-loss surgery at Lutheran Downtown Hospital? Register for an upcoming information session or call (260) 425-2800 today.
Deciding if weight-loss surgery is right for you requires an understanding of the procedures available and the effects on diet and lifestyle. Some procedures reduce the size of the stomach to curb hunger and limit food intake. Others reduce the stomach size and also change the way your body metabolizes the calories you eat.
Minimally Invasive Bariatric Surgery
Many weight-loss procedures can be performed using laparoscopic surgery or robotic-assisted surgery. These minimally invasive techniques use tiny cameras and instruments for enhanced precision and typically result in less scarring, reduced pain and quicker recovery.
The bariatric surgeon at Lutheran Downtown Hospital was the first in the area to perform robotic assisted bariatric surgery. Read more.
Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass
The Roux-en-Y gastric bypass procedure reduces the size of the stomach and reroutes food through the intestine. It involves dividing the upper portion of the stomach to create a smaller stomach pouch. This restricts the amount of food that can be consumed at one time. The surgeon then connects the pouch to a section of the lower intestine, so that the food will bypass a portion of the area where calories and nutrients are absorbed. The Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery also causes changes in hormones that can help to promote a feeling of fullness.
Sleeve Gastrectomy
A sleeve gastrectomy procedure, also called "the vertical sleeve" or "the sleeve," involves removing a portion of the stomach, leaving a slender stomach "sleeve." This new stomach is about one-third of its original size, which means patients feel full or satisfied after eating a smaller amount of food. This surgery also causes changes in hormones that work to promote a feeling of fullness. Sleeve gastrectomy limits the amount of food you can eat and helps you to feel full faster and longer.
Committing to a Healthier Lifestyle
Bariatric surgery is an important decision. While weight loss surgery has shown to be an effective tool, no method, including surgery, guarantees to produce and maintain a lower weight. Success requires a lifelong commitment to behavioral change, new eating habits and medical follow-up.
Patient results may vary. Consult your physician about the benefits and risks of any surgical procedure or treatment.