Bariatric surgery refers to a group of weight-loss procedures designed to address severe obesity and achieve weight loss that cannot be attained through diet and exercise alone. It works by limiting the amount of food that the stomach can hold, reducing the amount of nutrients that the body absorbs, or both.
Bariatric surgery is a major procedure that is also recommended to address weight-related health concerns such as heart disease and diabetes. In surgical oncology in Singapore, bariatric surgery may also be advised to prevent obesity-related types of cancer.
Who should go for bariatric surgery?
Bariatric surgery should not be considered as an instant weight loss treatment. As with all major procedures, certain requirements need to be met before any form of bariatric surgery in Singapore is advised, as follows:
- The patient is extremely obese, having a body mass index (BMI) of 37.5 or higher, or is overweight by 100 pounds or more.
- The patient is obese, having a BMI of 32.5 or higher and suffers from a weight-related health condition.
The patient’s medical history, pre-existing health conditions and general expectations about the procedure will also be considered.
What are the types of bariatric surgery in Singapore?
There are many types of bariatric surgery available in Singapore, including:
- Roux-en-Y gastric bypass – The most common form of bariatric surgery, the gastric bypass involves stapling or banding a portion of the stomach to create a smaller stomach pouch, thereby limiting the amount of food it can hold. The surgeon then cuts part of the small intestine and directly attaches it to the new stomach pouch. This causes the food to bypass parts of the digestive system, reducing the amounts of calories and nutrients that will be absorbed. A gastric bypass is non-reversible.
- Gastric band – This technique involves placing an inflatable band around the top portion of the stomach. Through a port that is placed in the abdomen underneath the skin, the band can be tightened (inflated) to create a small stomach pouch that holds less food. Unlike a gastric bypass, the gastric band technique is reversible.
- Gastric balloon – A deflated balloon is inserted through the mouth and throat and into the stomach. This balloon is then filled with air or a saline solution to limit the amount of food that the stomach can hold. This technique is meant for temporary use, only recommended for use of up to 6 months.
- Sleeve gastrectomy – This procedure involves surgically removing or stapling large portions (around 80 to 85%) of the stomach, resulting in a thinner and more tubular stomach shape. Sleeve gastrectomy in Singapore is fairly new, and is non-reversible and permanent.
What type of bariatric surgery is suitable for me?
Each type of bariatric surgery offers its own set of advantages but also carries its own risks. The choice of technique that is right for the patient will depend on his or her overall health and expectations, as well as the recommendation of his or her doctor.
For example, a gastric bypass is typically recommended for patients suffering from diabetes or severe acid reflux, while sleeve gastrectomy is recommended for high-risk patients (with weight-related health concerns) or those who’ve previously had abdominal surgeries.
A consultation with the doctor can help you determine which type of bariatric surgery is good for you, if you’re considering undergoing the procedure.
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