What is Bariatric Surgery?

For individuals living with severe obesity, shedding pounds through diet and exercise alone can be incredibly difficult—if not impossible. Beyond the physical challenges, obesity can increase the risk of serious medical conditions, limit daily activities, and affect mental health. When traditional methods haven’t worked, bariatric surgery may be the most effective, long-term solution.

At Surgical Associates of Tulsa, we help patients regain control of their health and lives with advanced surgical weight loss procedures. Here’s everything you need to know about what bariatric surgery is, how it works, and whether it could be the right option for you.

What Is Bariatric Surgery?

Bariatric surgery refers to a group of surgical procedures that promote weight loss by making changes to your digestive system. These changes typically limit how much food your stomach can hold, reduce the absorption of calories and nutrients, or both.

More than just weight loss, bariatric surgery is also known to improve or even resolve a wide range of obesity-related health conditions, including:

• Type 2 diabetes

• High blood pressure

• Obstructive sleep apnea

• Joint pain or arthritis

• High cholesterol

• Acid reflux (GERD)

• Heart disease

In many cases, patients see improvement in these conditions within weeks or months of surgery—long before they reach their goal weight.

The Most Common Types of Bariatric Surgery

At Surgical Associates of Tulsa, we offer several surgical options, each with its own approach, benefits, and long-term considerations. Your surgeon will help you choose the procedure that best fits your health profile and weight loss goals.

1. Gastric Bypass (Roux-en-Y)

One of the most widely performed weight loss procedures, gastric bypass involves creating a small pouch at the top of your stomach and rerouting part of your small intestine. This reduces both the amount of food you can eat and how many calories your body absorbs. It’s highly effective for long-term weight loss and is often used in patients with diabetes or severe acid reflux.

2. Sleeve Gastrectomy

During this procedure, approximately 80% of the stomach is removed, leaving a thin, sleeve-like structure. This smaller stomach limits food intake and lowers levels of ghrelin, the hunger hormone. Sleeve gastrectomy has become one of the most popular forms of bariatric surgery because it offers significant weight loss with fewer complications than gastric bypass.

3. Adjustable Gastric Banding

This method involves placing a silicone band around the upper part of the stomach to create a small pouch. The band can be adjusted over time to regulate food intake. While less common today due to the rise of more effective options, some patients still benefit from the gastric band if they prefer a reversible or adjustable approach.

4. Biliopancreatic Diversion with Duodenal Switch (BPD/DS)

This complex surgery combines a sleeve gastrectomy with a significant rerouting of the intestines. It results in reduced food intake and very limited calorie absorption. BPD/DS offers the most dramatic weight loss results but also requires the most intensive follow-up due to higher risk of nutritional deficiencies.

Who Is a Candidate for Bariatric Surgery?

Bariatric surgery isn’t for everyone, but it can be life-changing for the right candidates. You may qualify if:

• Your BMI is 40 or higher (or 35+ with obesity-related conditions)

• You’ve made serious attempts to lose weight through diet and exercise

• You’re dealing with conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, or sleep apnea

• You’re ready to commit to permanent lifestyle changes, including a new diet and activity level

• You’re willing to attend follow-up appointments and ongoing support programs

Each patient undergoes a thorough evaluation to ensure surgery is a safe and appropriate option.

What Are the Benefits of Bariatric Surgery?

Weight loss is just the beginning. Patients who undergo bariatric surgery often experience significant improvements in both physical and emotional health.

Medical Benefits:

• Dramatic weight loss over 12–18 months

• Improved blood sugar control in diabetic patients

• Lowered blood pressure and cholesterol

• Fewer sleep disturbances due to apnea

• Relief from joint pain and mobility issues

Emotional and Lifestyle Benefits:

• Boosted energy levels and physical activity

• Improved self-confidence and mood

• Greater ease in daily tasks, travel, and work

• Ability to participate in activities once avoided due to weight or health

Studies also suggest bariatric surgery may reduce long-term mortality by lowering the risk of heart disease, stroke, and certain cancers.

What to Expect After Surgery

Recovery varies based on the procedure performed, your age, and overall health. Most patients stay in the hospital for one to three days. After discharge, you’ll follow a structured eating plan:

1. Week 1–2: Liquid diet only

2. Week 3–4: Transition to pureed and soft foods

3. Week 5+: Slow return to solid foods with new portion control habits

Regular follow-ups are essential to monitor healing, ensure proper nutrition, and track weight loss progress. You’ll also work closely with a care team that includes your surgeon, dietitian, and primary care provider.

It’s important to remember that bariatric surgery is a tool—not a quick fix. Long-term success depends on your willingness to embrace healthy habits and stay committed to the process.

Is Bariatric Surgery Right for You?

Choosing surgery is a deeply personal decision, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. At Surgical Associates of Tulsa, we provide compassionate, individualized care to help you determine if bariatric surgery aligns with your health goals and lifestyle needs.

Whether you’re just starting your weight loss journey or have struggled for years, you don’t have to go it alone. We’re here to offer expertise, encouragement, and long-term support.