Bariatric surgery refers to a group of surgical procedures performed on individuals who are severely overweight or obese to aid in weight loss and improve overall health. The primary goal of bariatric surgery is to reduce the size of the stomach and/or modify the digestive system to restrict food intake or alter the body’s ability to absorb nutrients.
There are several types of bariatric surgery, including
Gastric Sleeve Surgery (Sleeve Gastrectomy): This procedure involves removing a large portion of the stomach, leaving behind a smaller, banana-shaped stomach pouch. It restricts the amount of food that can be eaten and reduces the production of hunger-inducing hormones.
Gastric Bypass Surgery: This surgery involves creating a smaller stomach pouch by stapling a section of the stomach. Then, a section of the small intestine is connected to the pouch, bypassing a portion of the digestive tract. It restricts food intake and alters the digestion and absorption of nutrients.
Duodenal Switch Surgery: This procedure combines a sleeve gastrectomy with a significant intestinal bypass. It restricts food intake and significantly reduces the absorption of calories and nutrients.
Adjustable Gastric Banding: In this surgery, an adjustable band is placed around the upper part of the stomach, creating a small pouch. The band can be tightened or loosened to control the amount of food that can be consumed.
Bariatric surgery is typically recommended for individuals who have a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher (or a BMI of 35-39.9 with obesity-related health conditions) and have been unsuccessful in achieving weight loss through non-surgical methods such as diet and exercise.
Bariatric surgery offers significant and sustained weight loss, leading to improvements in obesity-related conditions like type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, and joint pain. However, it is important to note that bariatric surgery is not a quick fix or a stand-alone solution. It requires lifelong commitment to dietary changes, regular physical activity, and follow-up care to ensure long-term success and minimize potential risks and complications.
What Is The Complications In Bariatric Surgery?
Bariatric surgery, like any surgical procedure, carries potential risks and complications. While the majority of individuals who undergo bariatric surgery experience successful outcomes, it’s important to be aware of the potential complications that can occur. These may include:
Infection: There is a risk of developing an infection at the site of the incision or in the abdominal cavity. Proper surgical techniques, sterile conditions, and antibiotic prophylaxis are employed to minimize this risk.
Bleeding: Excessive bleeding during or after surgery is possible. Surgeons take precautions to control bleeding during the procedure, but there is still a small risk of post-operative bleeding that may require intervention.
Blood Clots: Bariatric surgery increases the risk of blood clots forming in the legs (deep vein thrombosis) or traveling to the lungs (pulmonary embolism). Measures such as early mobilization, compression stockings, and blood-thinning medications are used to minimize this risk.
Leaks: After certain types of bariatric surgery, such as gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy, there is a small risk of leaks occurring at the staple lines or surgical connections. This can lead to infection or other complications and may require additional surgery to repair.
Strictures: Narrowing of the stomach or the connection between the stomach and intestines can occur, causing difficulty in swallowing or obstructing the passage of food. This may require endoscopic procedures or surgical intervention to correct.
Dumping Syndrome: Dumping syndrome can occur after gastric bypass surgery when food moves too quickly from the stomach to the small intestine. Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, lightheadedness, and sweating after eating certain foods high in sugar or fat.
Nutritional Deficiencies: Bariatric surgery can affect nutrient absorption, leading to potential deficiencies in vitamins (such as B12, D, and folate), minerals (such as iron and calcium), and protein. Lifelong supplementation and regular monitoring of nutritional levels are necessary to prevent deficiencies.
It’s important to remember that the risks and complications associated with bariatric surgery vary depending on the specific procedure performed and the individual’s overall health. Prior to undergoing surgery, thorough discussions with the healthcare team, including the surgeon and bariatric specialists, can help address concerns, outline potential risks, and provide guidance for a safe and successful surgical experience.
Apera Health Group
Apera Health Group is a renowned health tourism organization that specializes in bariatric surgery and has received accreditation from prominent healthcare institutions worldwide. With an impressive record of 50,000 satisfied patients, Apera Health Group operates numerous healthcare centers in Turkey and Europe.
Situated in the heart of Turkey, Apera Prime Hospital in Istanbul offers a comprehensive range of treatments and services. Apera ensure a seamless experience for Apera patients by providing transfers between the airport, hotel, and hospital using our luxurious VIP fleet. Apera transportation services comply with both local and international regulations, establishing a foundation of trust with Apera patients.
Namık Yılmaz Clinic Antalya
Namık Yılmaz Obesity Surgery is a renowned medical facility located in the beautiful city of Antalya, Turkey. The clinic offers world-class services to patients from all over the globe, boasting a team of experienced doctors who are proficient in foreign languages. Antalya, easily accessible through direct flights from various European and Asian countries, serves as an ideal location for the clinic.
Namık Yılmaz Obesity Surgery ensures a seamless experience for its patients by providing airport transfers, arranging accommodations, and delivering precise and successful treatment. The clinic’s dedicated guides are readily available to assist patients and their families, ensuring a healthy and pleasant journey back home.
Led by the esteemed medical professional, Surgeon Namık Yılmaz, the clinic specializes in Bariatric Surgery and has achieved significant success both in Turkey and Europe. Patients can expect a safe and comfortable treatment under the expert supervision of Surgeon Namık Yılmaz.
Assoc Dr. Umut Rıza Gündüz
After completing a challenging educational process at Cerrahpaşa Medical Faculty and starting my General Surgery Assistantship at Okmeydanı Training and Research Hospital in 2005, I became a General Surgery Specialist in 2010. Throughout my assistantship in general surgery, I participated in numerous surgeries and performed a great number of operations. My interest and passion for laparoscopic surgery developed during my assistantship.
During my over 10-year tenure at Antalya Training and Research Hospital, I mainly focused on cancer and obesity surgeries. I aimed to perform more laparoscopic surgeries. Additionally, I received domestic and international training in obesity surgery, robotic surgery, and advanced endoscopic procedures. My fascination with technology increased my enjoyment of robotic surgery, laparoscopic surgery, and advanced endoscopic applications.
My curiosity about medical literature gradually led me from reading scientific articles to the stage of writing them. Together with my colleagues and fellow resident doctors, I have contributed to numerous medical articles. By writing and contributing to medical articles, I successfully passed the first stage of my Associate Professorship application and obtained the title of Associate Professor in November 2017.
As a clinical training instructor, I have performed numerous specialized surgeries and had the opportunity to contribute to the education of my fellow resident doctors. In August 2021, due to personal reasons, I had to leave Antalya Training and Research Hospital where I worked with pleasure. In the same year, I started working at Özel Termessos Hospital. While primarily focusing on obesity and metabolic surgeries, I also continue to perform oncological surgeries. Professionally, it makes me happy to enhance my interest in laparoscopic surgery in the field of obesity and metabolic surgery.
With the support of the management at Özel Termessos Hospital, we have made significant progress in health tourism within a year. I am grateful to the management of Özel Termessos Hospital and all its employees for this. As of September 2022, I was honored with a position on the Board of Directors and became a Manager at Özel Termessos Hospital where I have been working. Although I have moved to my private clinic, I continue to perform my surgeries at Özel Termessos Hospital.
Op. Dr. Feridun Elmas
Dr. Feridun Elmas, born in Konya, is a highly experienced plastic, reconstructive, and aesthetic surgeon. He pursued his education at Istanbul Marmara University Faculty of Medicine after completing his primary education in Konya’s Ereğli district and high school education at Science High School. During his time at university, he had the opportunity to observe neurogenetic laboratory studies at Yale University School of Medicine, renowned as one of the world’s top universities. Dr. Elmas gained valuable experience by performing numerous surgeries while specializing in Plastic, Reconstructive, and Aesthetic Surgery at Ankara Dış Kapı Yıldırım Beyazıt Training and Research Hospital. He actively participated in various congresses, workshops, and conferences, presenting his work and publishing in national and international journals. Following the completion of his residency, Dr. Elmas fulfilled his state service obligation by working in Burdur, where he performed plastic surgery procedures on both domestic and international patients.
Dr. Feridun Elmas is a proud member of esteemed organizations such as ISAPS (The International Society of Plastic Surgery), Turkish Plastic Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery Association (TPRECD), and Aesthetic Plastic Surgery Association (EPCD). He currently welcomes patients at his private clinic in Antalya Konyaaltı, where he provides exceptional care and expertise in the field of plastic surgery.
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