A Bariatric doctor specializes in managing and treating obesity and weight-related disorders. These professionals deal with patients struggling from obesity and guide those needing surgical assistance to lose weight—making them an integral part of an obese patient’s journey to a healthier lifestyle. One such surgical procedure that a bariatric doctor plays a crucial role in is the vertical sleeve gastrectomy revision.
What is Bariatric Surgery?
Bariatric surgery refers to different weight-loss surgeries that help patients struggling with obesity. The decision to undergo bariatric surgery is not taken lightly—it is usually adopted when diet and exercise have not worked or when a patient has serious health issues related to obesity. The surgery leads to drastic weight loss by restricting food intake, which, in turn, lowers the risk of possibly life-threatening weight-related health problems.
Who is a Bariatric Doctor?
A bariatric doctor, also known as a bariatrician, is a medical professional who treats obesity and related conditions. A bariatrician’s role includes making diagnoses, offering treatments, and providing follow-up care. Bariatric doctors may recommend physical activities, healthy eating habits, medication, or surgery, depending on your health condition and body mass index (BMI). The most common surgeries recommended by bariatric doctors are gastric bypass, laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding, duodenal switch with biliopancreatic diversion, and vertical sleeve gastrectomy revision.
What is Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy Revision?
A vertical sleeve gastrectomy (VSG) is a popular weight loss surgery that involves removing a large portion of the stomach, leaving a banana-shaped ‘sleeve’ that connects the esophagus to the small intestine. However, in some circumstances, the original VSG procedure does not result in the expected weight loss results, or patients experience complications. In such cases, a vertical sleeve gastrectomy revision becomes necessary.
Vertical sleeve gastrectomy revision is a second operation performed to modify the original VSG. The type of revision surgery needed depends on the specific issues identified. Some patients might require a reintervention to reduce the stomach’s size further, while others might need a completely different procedure, such as conversion to a gastric bypass or duodenal switch, to achieve the intended weight loss. A bariatric doctor with a specialization in these surgeries will evaluate the patient’s unique situation and recommend the best course of action.
The Role of a Bariatric Doctor in Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy Revision
The role of a bariatric doctor in a vertical sleeve gastrectomy revision is multifaceted. Before surgery, the doctor evaluates the patient’s health status, identifies issues with the original surgery, and determines the most appropriate revision surgery. During the procedure, the doctor performs the surgery aiming for optimal results with minimal side effects. Post-surgery, they monitor the patient’s progress, adjust treatment plans as necessary, and provide guidance on lifestyle changes to ensure long-lasting success.
Choosing to undergo a weight loss surgery such as a vertical sleeve gastrectomy revision is a significant decision, and the role of a bariatric doctor in this process is vital. Regardless of the surgical route chosen, the guidance, experience and expertise of a bariatric doctor is crucial for a successful journey towards healthy weight and an improved quality of life.