About Obesity Surgery

What is Obesity?

Let's start by discussing obesity, a health condition characterized by excessive fat accumulation in the body. Obesity is diagnosed when a person's body mass index (BMI) is above a certain threshold. Body mass index is calculated taking into account a person's weight, height, and gender.

Why is Obesity Treatment Important?

Obesity treatment is important because obesity is a condition that can lead to serious health problems. Excessive weight and fat accumulation can have various systemic effects and are associated with a range of health complications. Here are some reasons highlighting the importance of obesity treatment:

• Reducing health problems: Obesity increases the risk of various health problems such as heart disease, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea, joint problems, respiratory issues, certain types of cancer, and psychological problems. Effectively managing obesity can reduce the risk of developing these health issues and alleviate existing ones.
• Improving quality of life: Obesity can restrict physical mobility, reduce energy levels, and limit daily activities. Effective treatment of obesity can lead to weight loss, increased energy, better physical functionality, and overall improvement in quality of life.
• Supporting psychological and emotional health: Obesity can be associated with low self-confidence, low self-esteem, depression, and other psychological issues. Treating obesity can support an individual's psychological and emotional health, helping them achieve a better quality of life.
• Reducing long-term health risks: Obesity increases the risk of long-term health problems, including heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, certain cancers, liver disease, and hormonal imbalances. Effectively managing obesity can reduce these risks, providing a healthier future.

The treatment of obesity may involve lifestyle changes, regular exercise, healthy eating, and, if necessary, medical interventions. Since each individual's situation is different, obesity treatment should be approached on an individual basis and guided by a healthcare professional. Early recognition of obesity and effective treatment are important for preserving an individual's health and improving their quality of life.

What is Obesity Surgery?

Obesity surgery is a treatment method that involves surgical interventions to promote weight loss in overweight or obese individuals. It is a preferred option for reducing obesity-related health problems and improving quality of life. These surgical procedures include methods such as reducing stomach volume, partially bypassing the intestines, or altering the stomach-intestine connection. The choice of procedure is determined based on the individual's level of obesity, overall health condition, and surgical risks.

What Are the Most Common Bariatric Surgery Procedures?

The most common obesity surgery procedures are as follows:

• Gastric Bypass: In this procedure, a portion of the stomach is divided to create a smaller pouch. Then, this new pouch is directly connected to the small intestine, bypassing the rest of the stomach. This method reduces both the stomach volume, limiting food intake, and nutrient absorption.
• Sleeve Gastrectomy: In this procedure, a large portion of the stomach is removed, leaving a sleeve-shaped stomach. This method reduces the stomach's capacity, leading to consuming smaller amounts of food and decreased hunger sensation.
• Gastric Banding: In this procedure, a band or ring is placed around the upper part of the stomach. This band narrows the upper portion of the stomach, creating a smaller area. This way, food intake is controlled.
• Biliopancreatic Diversion: In this procedure, a portion of the stomach is removed, and the intestines are rearranged. The stomach volume is reduced, limiting food intake, and a portion of the intestines is bypassed, reducing nutrient absorption.

These procedures are surgical methods used to promote weight loss in the management of obesity. However, each method has its specific advantages, disadvantages, and risks. The choice of surgical procedure is determined based on the individual's level of obesity, overall health condition, and suitability for surgery. Obesity surgery is an area that requires evaluation by a specialist and the development of an appropriate treatment plan.

When Should Obesity Surgery Be Considered?

Situations where obesity surgery should be considered typically include:

• Inability to achieve desired weight loss goals: If significant weight loss cannot be achieved despite efforts, and obesity-related health problems persist, obesity surgery may be considered.
• Serious health problems related to obesity: Obesity can lead to a range of health issues such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, joint problems, respiratory issues, certain types of cancer, and psychological problems. Obesity surgery can be considered as a treatment option for individuals with such serious health problems.
• Individuals with a body mass index (BMI) above certain limits: Body mass index is a measure of obesity. Obesity surgery may be considered for individuals with a BMI value above a specific threshold. However, this decision should be evaluated on an individual basis.

Obesity surgery can be an option to accelerate the weight loss process and improve obesity-related health issues. However, since each individual's situation is unique, determining the suitability of obesity surgery requires considering factors such as their health history, weight loss attempts, severity of obesity, and other relevant factors. Obesity surgery should be approached not only as a tool for weight loss but also in conjunction with lifestyle changes to maintain long-term weight control. Therefore, if you are considering obesity surgery, it is important to consult with a specialist to evaluate your condition and determine appropriate treatment options.