Obesity is a growing problem, not only in the United States, but also in many other industrialized countries around the world. A wide variety of foods, sedentary lifestyles and increasing use of computers for work tasks has made obesity one of the top health problems in these nations, leading to the widespread increase in type-2 diabetes, heart disease and stroke. Weight loss surgery, also called bariatric surgery, can provide effective results quickly, to improve the health of these individuals and to set them back on the path of better weight management.

Benefits of Weight Loss Surgery

Research indicates surgery is often the most effective method for individuals with obesity, with a greater likelihood of long-term success in managing weight than dietary restrictions. Studies show that weight loss surgery can help to provide long-term remission of type-2 diabetes, improved cardiovascular function, relief from depression and reduced sleep apnea. It can also improve joint function and fertility.

Options for Weight Loss Surgery

A number of different surgical techniques are used for weight loss. Your physician will determine the best type for your needs, based on your current state of health.

• Gastric bypass – Also called “Roux-en-Y gastric bypass” creates a small pouch in the upper portion of the stomach and then connects it to the small intestine. The remainder of the stomach is then connected to the other “Y” portion of the small intestine. The surgery restricts food intake, and also changes the production of appetite hormones, so that weight loss can be maintained.

• Gastric band – This type of surgery involves an adjustable band that is placed around part of the stomach that is inflated to restrict food intake.

• Gastric sleeve – This surgery removes most of the stomach, leaving only a narrow sleeve of stomach. The smaller volume restricts food intake and improve gut hormones associated with appetite and satiety. The gastric sleeve procedure has become popular because of its low rate of complications and faster recovery time.

• Duodenal switch with biliopancreatic diversion – This procedure removes most of the stomach, but leaves the valve to the small intestine. It also separates the first part of the small intestine, called the duodenum, reattaching the remainder to the stomach value. The duodenum is then reattached to the end of the small intestine.

Contact 1st Choice Weight Loss For Your Weight Loss Surgery

The doctors and staff at 1st Choice Weight Loss use their extensive training and experience to assist their patients in Houston, TX and surrounding areas achieve successful results. We offer a variety of bariatric procedures, counseling and lifestyle advice to maintain good health after surgery. Call 1st Choice Weight Loss today at 281-888-7767 for an appointment to discuss weight loss surgery Houston residents can trust to improve their health and their lives.