Obesity Surgery

Obesity Surgery
Why is Treatment of Obesity Important?
What is Obesity Surgery?
What are the Most Common Obesity Surgery Procedures?
When Should Obesity Surgery be Considered?

Obesity is characterized by excessive fat accumulation in the body. It is diagnosed when an individual's Body Mass Index (BMI) is above a certain threshold. The assessment of obesity is based on the Body Mass Index (BMI), which is calculated by dividing your weight by your height squared (kg/m²). If the result is above 30, it is termed as obese, above 40 is termed as morbidly obese, and above 50 is termed as super obese.

Why is Treatment of Obesity Important?

The treatment of obesity is important because obesity can lead to serious health issues. Excessive weight and fat accumulation can result in various systemic effects and are associated with a range of health complications. Treatment of obesity reduces health problems and improves quality of life. It supports psychological and emotional well-being. Additionally, it reduces long-term health risks.

In the treatment of obesity, lifestyle changes, regular exercise, and healthy eating are essential. If improvement cannot be achieved with these methods, Obesity Surgery is required.

What is Obesity Surgery?

Obesity surgery is a treatment method in which surgical interventions are applied to induce weight loss in obese individuals. These surgical procedures include methods such as reducing stomach volume, partially disabling the intestines, or changing the stomach-intestine connection. The choice of procedure is determined by the physician based on the individual's level of obesity, overall health condition, and surgical risks.

What are the Most Common Obesity Surgery Procedures?

Gastric Bypass: In this procedure, a portion of the stomach is divided to create a smaller stomach pouch. Then, this new stomach pouch is directly connected to the small intestine, while the remaining stomach is bypassed. This method both reduces stomach volume, limiting food intake, and reduces nutrient absorption.
Sleeve Gastrectomy: In this procedure, a large portion of the stomach is removed, leaving behind a tube-shaped stomach. This reduces stomach volume, leading to intake of smaller meals and decreased hunger sensation.
Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Band: In this procedure, a band or ring is placed around the upper part of the stomach. This band narrows the upper part of the stomach, creating a smaller area. This way, food intake is controlled.
Biliopancreatic Diversion (BPD): In this procedure, a portion of the stomach is removed and the intestines are rearranged. This reduces stomach volume, limits food intake, and partially disables nutrient absorption.

When Should Obesity Surgery be Considered?

Situations in which obesity surgery should be considered typically include:

Failure to Achieve Ideal Weight Loss Goals: If significant weight loss has not been achieved despite weight loss efforts and obesity-related health issues persist, obesity surgery may be considered.
Development of Serious Health Issues Due to Obesity: Obesity can lead to a range of serious health issues including heart disease, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, joint problems, respiratory problems, certain types of cancer, and psychological issues. In individuals with such serious health issues, obesity surgery may be considered among treatment options.
Having Body Mass Index Above Thresholds: Body Mass Index (BMI) is a measure of obesity. Obesity surgery may be considered for individuals whose BMI value is above a certain threshold. However, this decision should be evaluated individually for each person.

Obesity surgery should be approached not only as a means of losing weight but also as an opportunity to maintain long-term weight control along with lifestyle changes. Therefore, if you are considering obesity surgery, it is important to consult a specialist to assess your situation and determine appropriate treatment options.