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MyNewSelf Bariatrics

Weight Loss Procedures

Some weight loss surgery services or procedures modify the stomach and/or intestines to decrease the amount of food that you can eat, while others change the normal absorption of the food you eat.

Weight loss surgery services can be divided into three types:
  1. Restrictive procedures
    1. Decrease the amount of food intake at one time
    2. Promote a feeling of fullness
  2. Malabsorptive procedures
    1. Reduce absorption of calories
    2. Reduce absorption of protein and other nutrients
  3. Combination procedures that provide both restriction and malabsorption to achieve weight loss.

Note: because the amount of food that can be eaten at one time and the amount of nutrients that can be absorbed is altered, all weight loss surgery patients are required to take vitamins and minerals daily.

Weight loss surgery is generally designed for those with a body mass index (BMI) equal to or greater than 40, or equal to or greater than 35 with serious co-morbidities. Weight loss procedures are considered safe, but like many types of medical intervention, they do have risks. Consult with your physician about the risks and benefits of weight loss procedures.