Which Weight Loss Surgery is Right for Me?

A doctor consults with a patient to help them explore their options for weight loss surgery in Alabama.

There are many different ways people choose to lose weight. One way that is increasingly popular is through weight loss surgery, with around 250,000 procedures performed in the United States each year. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming trying to find the solution that works best for you. Fortunately, the bariatric surgeons at Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery are here to help you explore these options. Below, we share some of the benefits and challenges that each type of procedure offers.

What Are My Options for Weight Loss Surgery?

Not every type of weight loss surgery is right for everyone. However, there are many options to choose from, which we highlight below. That said, consulting with a bariatric surgeon can help you determine the best procedure to meet your goals.

1. Gastric Sleeve

A gastric sleeve, also known as a sleeve gastrectomy, is one of the most frequently performed bariatric procedures in the United States. Performed laparoscopically, a gastric sleeve works by reducing the size of your stomach by about two-thirds, limiting the amount of food you can eat. Ideal candidates for this procedure have:

A body mass index (BMI) of 40 or more
A BMI between 30-40 with other health concerns, including:
- Diabetes
- Sleep apnea
- Heart disease
- High blood pressure

Regardless of your personal health history, your bariatric surgeon can help you determine if you are a candidate for this procedure.

2. LAP-Band

A LAP-Band is the least invasive option for bariatric surgery. It involves the placement of a band around the upper end of the stomach, reducing its capacity. The band can be adjusted as needed to help you reach your weight loss goals faster. Best of all, there are fewer complications and side effects associated with this procedure when compared to other options. It is also reversible by simply removing the band from your stomach, allowing it to return to its normal capacity. However, if you find that this option does not work as well for you, you can have revisional weight loss surgery to convert your LAP-Band to a gastric sleeve. Your bariatric surgeon can help you determine if this option is right for you.

3. Gastric Bypass

Having been performed in the United States since 1967, the gastric bypass was one of the first bariatric procedures available on the market. It is still performed today as it has a long track record of helping patients successfully lose weight. There are two steps involved in this procedure. First, a small stomach pouch is created to restrict one’s food intake. Then, a Y-shaped section of the small intestine is attached to the pouch, which allows food to bypass the lower stomach. While the procedure itself takes 60-120 minutes, it is performed on an inpatient basis. It also requires a one- to two-night hospital stay. Fortunately, BMI has a partnership with St. Vincent’s Hospital, which makes post-procedure follow-up easy.

4. Orbera Gastric Balloon

Much like the LAP-Band, the Orbera Gastric Balloon is a minimally invasive, temporary option for weight loss surgery. During this procedure, a balloon is placed into the stomach and filled with saline until it is about the size of a grapefruit. The gastric balloon works to help you feel fuller for longer and control portion sizes. While you can expect to lose the most weight in the initial months after the procedure, a healthy diet and regular exercise are needed to maximize results.

5. Coolsculpting

A less invasive alternative to liposuction, Coolsculpting helps you get rid of unwanted fat that does not respond to diet or exercise. You can target specific areas with this procedure, unlike others we offer that focus on more general weight loss. Please note that Coolsculpting may require several treatments to be effective. However, we can discuss specific timelines and results during your initial consultation, where we’ll create a custom treatment plan based on your goals.

Explore Your Options for Weight Loss Surgery at BMI

When you’re ready to pursue weight loss surgery, the experienced bariatric surgeons at Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery can help. We will walk you through your options and find the right one for your specific goals. To start your weight loss journey with us today, contact us online or call us at (205) 858-1211.

Schedule a Consultation for Weight Loss Surgery at BMI

At Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery, we understand that each of our patients is unique. That’s why we offer a variety of surgical options for weight loss. Our bariatric surgeons can provide you with the support you need before, during, and after your procedure. If you have specific concerns or questions about any of our weight loss surgery options, contact us online or call (205) 858-1211 to schedule a consultation today. We would be happy to answer your questions and offer guidance as you begin your weight loss journey.

Share This Post

Weight Loss

What’s Really Happening When Your Weight Loss Stalls

Obesity, Weight Loss Surgery

Is Obesity Genetic? Understanding How Family History Affects Weight Loss

Obesity, Weight Loss Surgery

A Thankful Heart, A Healthier You: The Connection Between Gratitude and Weight Loss

Obesity, Weight Loss Surgery

Minimally Invasive Surgery vs. Traditional Surgery: What You Need to Know