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Bariatric surgery is one of the most effective solutions for significant weight loss and improving health conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and sleep apnea. However, not all bariatric surgeries are the same—the right procedure for you depends on your BMI, health status, and personal weight loss goals.
In this guide, we’ll break down the different types of bariatric surgery, their benefits, and how to determine the best procedure for your needs.
Bariatric surgery is a medical procedure that helps reduce food intake and improve metabolism, leading to long-term weight loss. Depending on the type of surgery, it works in different ways:
- Restrictive procedures shrink the stomach, so you eat less.
- Malabsorptive procedures change digestion to absorb fewer calories.
- Hormonal procedures affect appetite-regulating hormones to reduce hunger.
The right type of bariatric surgery depends on your body weight, health conditions, and lifestyle.
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Factors to Consider When Choosing a Bariatric Surgery
1. Body Mass Index (BMI) and Eligibility
BMI is a major factor in determining which bariatric procedure is suitable:
- BMI 30-35 → Non-surgical options like Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG) or Gastric Balloon.
- BMI 35-40 → Gastric Sleeve or Sleeve Plus (SG-PJB) recommended.
- BMI 40+ → Gastric Bypass or Sleeve Plus (SG-PJB) for more effective weight loss.
2. Existing Health Conditions
Your current health issues can influence which surgery is best:
- Acid reflux? → Gastric Bypass is the best choice.
- Diabetes or metabolic disorders? → Sleeve Plus (SG-PJB) or Gastric Bypass.
- Prefer non-surgical treatment? → Gastric Balloon or ESG.
3. Weight Loss Goals
- Moderate weight loss (10-15% of body weight) → ESG or Gastric Balloon.
- Significant weight loss (50-70% of excess weight) → Gastric Sleeve, Gastric Bypass, or Sleeve Plus (SG-PJB).
4.Weight Loss Goals
- Willing to follow a strict diet & vitamin supplements? → Gastric Bypass or Sleeve Plus (SG-PJB).
- Prefer a non-invasive option? → ESG or Gastric Balloon.
Comparison of Different Bariatric Surgery Options
How Each Type of Bariatric Surgery Works
| Procedure | How It Works |
|---|---|
| Bariatric Surgery (General) | Covers various weight loss procedures that help patients lose weight and improve health. |
| Gastric Sleeve (Sleeve Gastrectomy) | Removes about 80% of the stomach, reducing hunger hormones. |
| Gastric Bypass (Roux-en-Y) | Reduces stomach size and reroutes digestion, limiting calorie absorption. |
| Sleeve Plus (SG-PJB) | A combination of gastric sleeve and partial jejunal bypass, improving weight loss and metabolic benefits. |
| Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG) | A non-surgical stomach reduction using an endoscopic suturing device. |
| Gastric Balloon | A balloon is placed in the stomach to limit food intake (temporary, lasts 6-12 months). |
Ideal Candidates for Each Type of Bariatric Surgery
| Procedure | Ideal For |
|---|---|
| Bariatric Surgery (General) | Patients struggling with obesity and weight-related health issues. |
| Gastric Sleeve (Sleeve Gastrectomy) | BMI 35-40+, people who want significant weight loss. |
| Gastric Bypass (Roux-en-Y) | Patients with severe obesity (BMI 40+) or diabetes. |
| Sleeve Plus (SG-PJB) | Patients who need more weight loss than gastric sleeve but want to avoid full gastric bypass. |
| Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG) | BMI 30-35+, those wanting moderate weight loss without surgery. |
| Gastric Balloon | BMI 30-35, people looking for short-term weight loss. |
How to Choose the Best Bariatric Surgery for You
If you’re considering bariatric surgery, here are three key steps to ensure you make the right choice:
1. Consult a Bariatric Surgeon – A professional assessment is crucial. Your surgeon will evaluate your BMI, health status, and lifestyle to recommend the best procedure.
2. Consider Long-Term Commitment – Some procedures require strict post-surgery diets and lifelong supplements, such as Gastric Bypass or Sleeve Plus (SG-PJB). If you prefer a less invasive option, ESG or Gastric Balloon may be better.
3. Evaluate Risks and Benefits – Understanding post-surgical care, possible complications, and recovery time will help you make an informed decision.
Conclusion
Choosing the right bariatric surgery depends on your weight, health conditions, and long-term goals.
- If you want a non-surgical, reversible option, consider ESG or Gastric Balloon.
- If you need significant, permanent weight loss, Gastric Sleeve or Gastric Bypass may be the best choice.
- If you have diabetes or metabolic issues, Sleeve Plus (SG-PJB) or Gastric Bypass could be ideal.
Need expert guidance? Book a consultation with Rattinan Medical Center in Bangkok, where our experienced bariatric surgeons can help you find the best solution for your weight loss journey.
Our Expert Medical Contributors are licensed doctors and specialists who ensure every article is accurate, trustworthy, and easy to understand. Guided by our commitment to safety, care, and confidence, they provide expert insights to help patients make informed decisions. At Rattinan, we believe that knowledge is the first step to transformation.