Dr. Carson Liu

Los Angeles, California

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

Weight Loss Surgery Options

In the past, weight loss surgery has required invasive procedures to reduce the size of the stomach and often reconstruct the connections between the stomach and the intestine. While this kind of surgery, called gastric bypass surgery, is still widely used, other options are also available that are less invasive and also highly effective.

Gastric Bypass

The traditional gastric bypass has been refined over the years, and while still a complicated procedure, it can now be performed with laparoscopic methods rather than with open surgery. This makes the procedure much easier on the patient, reducing recovery time and the risk of side effects.

LAP-BAND® System

LAP-BAND weight loss surgery, or laparoscopic gastric banding surgery, is relatively new and growing rapidly in popularity. Much less invasive than gastric bypass surgery, LAP-BAND System procedures require a much shorter hospital stay. In addition, the LAP-BAND System is adjustable. The stomach is constricted with a silicone band, creating a small pouch and a narrow entrance into the rest of the stomach. The band can be adjusted by adding or removing saline, making the stomach pouch smaller or larger. The LAP-BAND System method is also easily reversible, unlike major gastric bypass surgery.

Who is a Good Candidate for Weight Loss Surgery?

In general, you might be a good candidate for weight loss surgery if your BMI is higher than 40, or if you are 100 pounds heavier than your ideal weight. Complications due to obesity might lead to complications with surgery, as well, so it's important to consult with a qualified bariatric surgeon like Dr. Liu to be sure weight loss surgery is a good option for you.

To find out more about weight loss surgery options in the Los Angeles, California area, please contact experienced bariatric surgeon Dr. Carson Liu to schedule a consultation.