Bariatric surgery, also called weight-loss surgery, encompasses a variety of procedures designed to help individuals who are severely obese achieve significant and sustainable weight loss. These surgeries typically involve altering the digestive system's structure to limit food intake, reduce nutrient absorption, or both. Common types of bariatric procedures include gastric sleeve surgery, gastric bypass, and LAP BAND® surgery. These operations are generally recommended for patients who have not been able to lose weight through diet and exercise alone and who face serious health risks due to their obesity.
At the Atlanta General & Bariatric Surgery Center in Johns Creek, GA, we specialize in providing expert bariatric and surgical care to our local community. When you choose us, you're not just opting for a surgical procedure; you're investing in a comprehensive weight loss journey supported by a team of experts. From doctors to dietitians, our staff is here for you every step of the way, helping you achieve your health goals and improve your quality of life.
Ready to take the next step in your weight loss journey? Schedule a consultation with a dedicated bariatric doctor at the Atlanta General & Bariatric Surgery Center today and start on your path to a healthier, happier you.
Sleeve gastrectomy surgery, sometimes called gastric sleeve surgery, is a popular and highly effective weight-loss procedure that involves permanently reducing the size of the stomach. During the operation, the surgeon removes approximately 80-85% of the stomach, leaving a narrow, tube-shaped structure, or "sleeve." This significantly smaller stomach can't hold as much food, which helps to curtail calorie intake and promotes a sense of fullness after smaller meals.
One of the main advantages of sleeve gastrectomy is that it doesn't involve rerouting or reconnecting the intestines, which reduces the risk of complications. Additionally, the procedure has been shown to result in significant weight loss, often up to 60-70% of excess body weight within the first year following surgery. The surgery also contributes to improvements in obesity-related conditions, such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea, and high cholesterol.
At the Atlanta General & Bariatric Surgery Center, our team of experienced bariatric surgeons and healthcare professionals is committed to guiding you through every step of your bariatric surgery journey. From pre-operative assessments to post-operative care, we provide comprehensive support and education to help you achieve and maintain your weight loss goals.
Roux-en-Y gastric bypass is a highly effective weight-loss surgery that has been successfully helping patients achieve significant weight reductions for decades. The procedure involves creating a small pouch at the top of the stomach using surgical staples. This new pouch, which can only hold a small amount of food, is then directly connected to a portion of the small intestine, bypassing most of the stomach and the initial segment of the intestine. This not only limits the amount of food intake but also reduces the body's ability to absorb calories and nutrients.
During the Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, the surgeon divides the stomach into a small upper pouch and a larger lower section. The upper pouch, roughly the size of an egg, serves as the new stomach. The surgeon then cuts the small intestine and attaches the lower part directly to the small pouch, forming a Y-shaped configuration. The bypassed section of the stomach and intestine remains in place but no longer processes food.
This dual mechanism of action—restricting food intake and decreasing nutrient absorption—helps patients lose weight rapidly and effectively. Many patients experience a significant loss of excess body weight—approximately 60-70% within the first year. Additionally, Roux-en-Y gastric bypass can lead to substantial improvements in comorbid conditions such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea, and certain cardiovascular diseases.
LAP BAND® surgery, or laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding, is a popular and minimally invasive weight-loss procedure designed for individuals seeking a significant and sustained reduction in body weight. During this surgery, the bariatric surgeon places an adjustable silicone band around the upper portion of the stomach. This band creates a small pouch and a narrow passage into the larger part of the stomach, which restricts the amount of food that one can eat at a single time and slows the passage of food, causing a feeling of fullness even when consuming smaller meals.
The LAP BAND® itself is adjustable, which provides a unique advantage. The band is connected to a small device called a port, placed under the skin on the abdomen. By injecting or withdrawing saline solution through this port, the band can be tightened or loosened to control the size of the stomach's opening. This adjustability allows the procedure to be tailored to the patient's specific needs and can be modified over time.
One of the significant benefits of LAP BAND® surgery is that it does not involve cutting, stapling, or rerouting any portion of the stomach or intestines, which generally results in a lower risk of complications and a quicker recovery time compared to other bariatric procedures. Additionally, the procedure is reversible; if necessary, the band can be removed, and the stomach will return to its original form.
Patients who undergo LAP BAND® surgery often achieve an average weight loss of 60% of their excess body weight within the first few years after surgery. Beyond weight loss, many experience improvements in obesity-related conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, and high cholesterol.
Band plication is an innovative bariatric surgery technique that combines aspects of traditional gastric banding with newer approaches to enhance weight loss outcomes. During the procedure, a bariatric surgeon first places a LAP BAND® around the upper portion of the stomach, creating a small pouch that restricts food intake. However, unlike standard gastric banding, band plication also involves folding or "plicating" the stomach below the band, which further reduces the stomach's capacity without the need for stapling or removing any part of it.
The plication process involves suturing significant portions of the stomach to itself, thereby creating folds that cut down the stomach's volume. These sutures reinforce the restrictive effect of the LAP BAND®. The combination of the adjustable band and the stomach plication means that patients feel full after consuming even smaller amounts of food, which helps to reduce calorie intake and promote significant weight loss.
Because it is a newer procedure, there is limited data on long-term outcomes for band plication. However, doctors believe that band plication will result in either the same or greater weight loss than traditional gastric banding at a faster rate, acting more like a low-risk sleeve gastrectomy. Band plication also offers the same benefits as LAP BAND® surgery, including adjustability and reversibility, with potentially fewer complications.
Eligibility for bariatric surgery typically depends on several factors, including body mass index (BMI), underlying health conditions, and failed attempts at weight loss through diet and exercise. Generally, candidates should have a BMI of 40 or higher, or a BMI of 35 or more with serious comorbidities such as type 2 diabetes or heart disease. Our bariatric team will evaluate each patient individually to determine their eligibility for surgery.
Recovery times can vary depending on the type of bariatric surgery performed. For instance, minimally invasive procedures like LAP BAND® surgery usually have shorter recovery periods, often allowing patients to return to work and normal activities within one to two weeks. More complex procedures, like Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, may require a recovery period of several weeks. Following your surgeon's advice and attending all follow-up appointments are critical to ensure a smooth and successful recovery.
Yes, following a special diet is crucial after bariatric surgery to ensure successful weight loss and proper healing. Initially, you'll be on a liquid diet, transitioning to soft and pureed foods before gradually reintroducing solid foods. Long-term dietary changes will include smaller portion sizes, a focus on high-protein foods, and avoiding foods high in sugar and fat. Staying hydrated and taking prescribed vitamins and minerals are also essential to prevent nutrient deficiencies.
The cost of weight loss surgery can vary depending on a number of factors. At Atlanta General & Bariatric Surgery Center, we accept most major insurance plans and a variety of payment options to make bariatric surgery more accessible for our patients. Our team can assist you in navigating the financial aspects of your procedure and provide a detailed breakdown of costs before your surgery.
Scheduling a consultation with the team at Atlanta General & Bariatric Surgery Center is straightforward and convenient. Simply give us a call at (678) 691-6257 or fill out our online contact form, and our staff will assist you in setting up an appointment. We look forward to helping you on your journey towards a healthier life!