Understanding Bariatric Surgery

“The people at Barix actually took time to get to know me before we even started talking about surgery. I got the feeling that the people at Barix really cared about me as a person, not just a patient. I had another appointment at a hospital later that day to compare, but I cancelled it. I knew I found my answer.” --Katie M.

Definition of Weight Loss Surgery / Bariatric Surgery

Weight loss surgery / bariatric surgery is performed to treat the medical condition known as morbid obesity. The general definition of morbid obesity is an individual weight of more than 100 pounds greater than the ideal and a Body Mass Index greater than 40. The morbidly obese individual often has other medical conditions or co-morbidities such as hypertension, diabetes, sleep apnea, joint disease, etc., that are a result of excess weight. The term “morbid obesity” comes from the high probability that individuals with this medical condition will have a shortened life expectancy as a result of their associated medical issues.

Laparoscopic Surgery or Minimally Invasive Surgery

Laparoscopic surgery, or minimally invasive surgery, was first used for gallbladder surgery in the 1990’s. Instead of using an open incision, the laparoscopic surgeon makes several small openings where trocars (long tubes) are inserted.  With the use of small cameras inserted in the tubes, the surgeon can see inside the abdomen and perform surgery using special devices functioning as fingers, retractors, scalpels, staplers, fasteners, etc. The benefit of minimally invasive surgery is a much shorter recovery period; for example, a laparoscopic surgery patient could return to work in a couple of weeks, versus 4 to 6 weeks for the open procedure.

	"My experience with Barix was AWESOME, AMAZING, and FANTASTIC. I really cannot say anything negative about my experience. My life now has changed so much. I not only look different but I feel so much better. I have energy to do anything that I want to do. I have a new love and respect for myself that I did not know I was lacking." --Leanne J