Presently, approximately 25% of Australian adults are obese, and this number is projected to increase in the future.
Bariatric surgery, however, is a solution which can assist with the treatment of obesity in those who have obesity-related medical conditions. Bariatric, or weight loss surgery, is an effective tool for treating obesity and combatting weight gain in the long term. It can be useful in conditions such as type 2 diabetes.
How bariatric surgery can help
Bariatric surgery is weight loss surgery which is focussed on creating an effective long-term solution for patients. In conjunction with a healthy lifestyle as well as exercise, bariatric surgery aims to promote weight loss and a healthy, longer life.
Bariatric surgeries can play a part in reducing the effect of diabetes on patients, especially in those who are very obese. Whilst weight loss through lifestyle change is an economic, effective, and safe means to prevent type 2 diabetes or establish control of it in some people, it is not easily achievable for all. Particularly in those who are extremely obese, bariatric surgery has been shown to be a more successful intervention for long term weight loss.
What is gastric bypass surgery
One of the main forms of bariatric surgery which is performed for those who suffer from type 2 diabetes is gastric bypass surgery.
A traditional gastric bypass (also known as a Roux-en-Y gastric bypass) is a procedure which involves the creation of a small pouch from the stomach which connects directly to the small intestine. After the procedure is completed, swallowed food will go into this small stomach pouch and then directly into the small intestine, bypassing most of your stomach and the first section of your small intestine.
It is one of the most common forms of bariatric surgery and is done when diet and exercise haven’t worked or when serious health problems occur as a result of your weight, as is the case of those suffering from type 2 diabetes.
How a gastric bypass can help combat diabetes
A gastric bypass will help you feel full for longer periods of time, and can also create spontaneous production of a molecule called GLUT-1 which helps the body use glucose. These two effects result in one eating less but managing their sugar intake better, lessening the symptoms of diabetes.
In addition, diabetes is not the only medical condition that a gastric bypass or gastric sleeve can assist with. It also helps to reduce your risk of weight-related life-threatening issues such as gastroesophageal reflux disease, heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obstructive sleep apnea, strokes, certain types of cancer and infertility. Also, the procedure can be performed laparoscopically.
Whilst a gastric bypass may be the best option for you, there are other options such as a gastric band or a sleeve gastrectomy, which is also known as a gastric sleeve.
Getting a gastric sleeve in Perth
With over 20 years of experience performing gastric sleeve procedures in Perth, bariatric surgeon Dr Kevin Dolan can help you find a solution. His team aim to provide a holistic approach to weight loss from start to finish, ensuring people get the results they desire.
Gastric bypass and gastric sleeve costs
Whilst the cost of weight loss is less without surgical intervention, the out-of-pocket costs of undergoing bariatric surgery vary based on your level of health fund cover but start as low as $1500 with Dr Kevin Dolan. Total surgery costs generally include other considerations such as your hospital stay, the costs of an anaesthetist as well as a bariatric surgeon and assistant.
To learn more about the costs of bariatric surgery, please click here.
Bariatric Surgery in Perth
Dr Kevin Dolan has assessed over 20,000 patients with weight issues. With his multidisciplinary team of physicians, dieticians, psychologists, and nurses, he has assisted his patients with losing weight and keeping it off, enabling them to live a healthier and longer life despite any obesity-related medical conditions.
If you are looking to lose some weight, get in touch with Dr Kevin Dolan today on (08) 9246 2314 or by clicking here to organise a tailor-made and unique solution that suits your goals.