Types of Bariatric Surgery

Understanding your options for weight loss

Types of Weight Loss Surgery

Bariatric surgery works by reducing the size of your stomach. A smaller stomach means you feel full after eating less food. The surgery can also decrease the level of hormones which make you hungry.

At Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital–Milton, we offer different types of minimally invasive surgical options, including robotic surgery, to meet your individual needs.

The surgeons in the Bariatric Weight Loss Surgery program at BID Milton perform cutting-edge bariatric surgical procedures using minimally invasive techniques including robotic surgery. These can shorten recovery time, reduce pain and minimize problems after surgery.

We perform these three types of bariatric surgery:

Gastric Sleeve

Gastric sleeve (or sleeve gastrectomy) is the most common type of bariatric surgery. During the procedure, a surgeon removes about 60% of the patient’s stomach. The remaining stomach is about the size of a banana.  Weight loss occurs because the new, smaller stomach restricts the amount of food  you can eat. There is also a change in the hormones affecting hunger.

Multiple studies have shown the gastric sleeve is safe and effective in reducing weight and decreasing obesity-related medical conditions, such as diabetes and high blood pressure.

Gastric Bypass Surgery

Gastric bypass surgery divides the stomach. You'll have a new small "pouch" that serves as your stomach. Instead of removing the remaining stomach, your surgeon “bypasses” it and connects your intestines to the small pouch.

The pouch is capable of holding approximately one ounce of liquid or food. Weight loss occurs due to a reduction of calories, changes in hormones affecting hunger and decreased nutrient absorption.

Gastric bypass has long been considered the gold standard for weight loss. It has a long history of success.

Revision Weight Loss Surgery

Sometimes, people who undergo bariatric surgery need another procedure. Revision weight loss surgery is used as a second or corrective procedure. Occasionally, revision surgery may be necessary for patients who have not lost as much weight as intended. It also can be used to treat complications from a previous procedure.

Revision weight loss surgery carries greater risk, but it can be safe and effective when performed by experienced weight loss surgeons supported by a multidisciplinary team, such as those found at Beth Israel Deaconess Milton.