Weight Loss Surgery

Gastric Sleeve (GS): commonly referred to as the “sleeve”, is the laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy of the stomach which is performed by removing about 80% of the stomach volume. Although what has left of the stomach — usually the size of a banana — retains its digestive abilities, the capacity for food intake is reduced. By taking out the portion of the stomach responsible for producing most of the hunger hormone, the feeling of hunger is decreased. Hence, the surgery affects the body’s metabolism

Roux-en Y Gastric Bypass (RYGB): The procedure is named after the French term “in the form of Y” and is one of the most common weight-loss surgeries. It involves the direct connection of a small part of the stomach to a part of the small intestine, bypassing the rest of the stomach which consequently no longer stores or digests food. The part of the small intestine which empties the bypassed stomach is then reattached to the small intestinal part emptying the small stomach about 3-4 feet downwards, resulting in the Y shape this procedure is known for. The effect of this is that the small portion of the stomach forms a little stomach pouch which limits the amount of food ingested, the ingested food then bypasses the larger part of the stomach as well as the first portion of the small bowel, resulting in reduced absorption

Laparoscopic Mini Gastric Bypass (OAGB): this procedure combines some of the attributes of gastric sleeve and gastric bypass. Here, the upper portion of the stomach is divided into an elongated gastric tube, and it is directly joined to a loop of the small intestine, completely bypassing the rest of the stomach — which is left for the production of digestive juices — and the upper part of the small intestine called the duodenum. The effect of this is that the small stomach tube limits the amount of food ingested, and the bypassed duodenum results in decreased absorption.

Intragastric Balloon: this procedure involves the placement of a silicone balloon filled with saline into the stomach. The function of the balloon is to press down on the stomach walls, giving the impression that the stomach is full. The effect of this is that thefeeling of fullness limits the amount of food consumed.

Scientific societies have guidelines that specify the eligibility for weight-loss surgery abroad. This usually begins with a BMI (Body Mass Index) of 40 or 32-35 in patients with at least two concomitant diseases (coexisting medical conditions, i.e., diabetes and hypertension).

In addition to the body mass index, it is necessary to inform the bariatric surgeon about existing medical conditions and provide a comprehensive medical history of heart disease, previous abdominal surgery, or early pregnancy.

It is also important to adhere strictly to medical advice after the surgery. Surgeons may suggest that the patient avoid strenuous activities, carbonated drinks, smoking, alcohol, cosmetic procedures, certain medication, and even pregnancy for up to 18 months after the operation.

Surgeons may also encourage certain practices that could aid the recovery process, such as protein intake for muscle development, liquids or pureed food for about three weeks after the surgery, light exercise, etc. These vary depending on the predisposition of each individual. It is therefore encouraged to consult with a doctor before and after the procedure.

Can I undergo laparoscopic surgery if I have had other abdominal surgery, a hernia or a stoma in the past?

Yes. Be sure to tell your surgeon and anaesthetist about all previous operations, especially those on the abdomen and pelvis.

Can I undergo laparoscopic surgery if I have heart disease?

Yes, but you may need a medical certificate from a Cardiologist. Bariatric surgery leads to the improvement of most problems associated with heart disease, including: high blood pressure, cholesterol, lipid problems, vascular diseases.

Can I stop some medications after surgery?

When you lose weight, you may be able to reduce or eliminate the need to take many medications for high blood pressure, heart disease, arthritis, cholesterol or diabetes. You may be able to reduce the dose or stop using antidiabetic drugs shortly after surgery. Be sure to consult with your doctor about drug withdrawal.

Do I have to quit smoking before and after surgery?

Smoking leads to a decrease in blood supply to the body’s tissues and delays wound healing. Smoking harms any organ in the body and can increase the risk of developing: stomach ulcers, heart disease, catal ity, cancer.

Will I have to undergo plastic surgery after surgery?

Most patients have loose or flabby skin after treatment, but it is often temporary, not always prolonged. You will experience many changes between 6 and 18 months after surgery. Your individual appearance after treatment depends on several things, including weight, age, genetics and whether you exercise.

Do I need to avoid caffeine and carbonated drinks after bariatric surgery?

Yes, if possible. In the first weeks after the procedure, we should avoid coffee and carbonated drinks.

What happens if I don’t take enough protein?

The body needs additional protein during the period of rapid weight loss to maintain muscle mass. Protein is also required for proper metabolism. If you do not provide enough protein in your diet, the body will take protein from the muscles and you can become weakened.

Can I drink alcohol after surgery?

Alcohol is not recommended after bariatric surgery, because it contains so-called empty calories – it does not provide adequate nutrients, and provides large amounts of calories that can be deposited in adipose tissue. Alcohol can be absorbed into the body more quickly after bariatric surgery. We recommend not to consume alcohol until minimum six months after surgery.

If I couldn’t get pregnant before the procedure, then I don’t have to worry about contraception after surgery?

An increase in fertility may occur soon after surgery. Therefore, it is important to use a barrier contraceptive method, such as a intrauterine insole or condoms and spermicide agent, so as not to get pregnant. Birth control pills are a much less effective preventive measure in patients with obesity and in the rapid weight loss phase.

Is pregnancy safe after bariatric surgery?

It is recommended to avoid pregnancy for 18-24 months after surgery. This allows you to achieve maximum weight loss and achieve stable weight. For some time after the procedure will be very limited intake of nutrients.

Where is the best place to have bariatric surgery?

If obesity treatments like dieting and exercise do not yield desired results,
then a weight loss surgery abroad might be the solution. Poland is a leading
destination for weight loss surgery abroad because of its specialised
bariatric treatment clinics and laparoscopic technology. If you want to get
bariatric surgery done in Europe, weight loss surgery Poland is the best
place to go.

What is the cheapest weight loss surgery?

The Intragastric Balloon method is most affordable because it only requires
fitting a balloon into your stomach for turgidity. Poland is a popular option
for pocket-friendly, and effective weight-loss surgeries as some facilities in
the country give quick and free consultations to patients.

What is the easiest weight loss surgery?

The Intragastric Balloon is the easiest weight loss surgery available, thanks
to its simplicity; the patient is sedated while the balloon is inserted through
the oesophagus. The non-invasiveness also guarantees quick recovery and
allows you to resume your usual activities in record time.