A Guide to Bariatric Care

Bariatric care refers to the medical management and treatment of individuals who are significantly overweight or obese. It goes beyond diet and exercise, offering a comprehensive approach that addresses the health challenges associated with obesity. 

If you or a loved one is considering bariatric care, you’ve come to the right place. Read on to learn everything you need about bariatric care, from the basics of bariatric surgery to the importance of ongoing support and lifestyle changes.

What Is Bariatric Care?

Bariatric care focuses on managing obesity, a condition that can lead to serious health issues like diabetes, heart disease, and hypertension. It's not just about helping people lose weight; it's about improving overall health and quality of life.

Bariatric care often involves a team of professionals, including surgeons, dietitians, nurses, and psychologists, working together to create a personalized plan for each patient. It may include lifestyle changes, medication, or bariatric surgery, depending on the individual's needs.

Who Is a Candidate for Bariatric Surgery?

Not everyone struggling with their weight is a candidate for bariatric surgery. Typically, doctors recommend it for people who have a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher, or with obesity-related conditions, like type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure, or who have tried and failed to lose weight through diet, exercise, or medication. 

Types of Bariatric Surgery

The most common types of bariatric surgery are the following:

Gastric Bypass

Gastric bypass surgery involves creating a small pouch from the stomach that connects directly to the small intestine. This limits how much you can eat and reduces the absorption of calories and nutrients.

The procedure helps people lose weight quickly and has been shown to improve obesity-related conditions like type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure. However, it also carries risks, such as nutrient deficiencies, so patients need to take lifelong supplements.

Sleeve Gastrectomy

A sleeve gastrectomy involves removing a large portion of the stomach, leaving a tube-like sleeve. It reduces the stomach's capacity to hold food, resulting in weight loss.

It’s less invasive than gastric bypass and has a lower risk of complications, but it’s still a major surgery. Like gastric bypass, patients must follow a strict diet and take supplements to prevent nutrient deficiencies.

Adjustable Gastric Banding (Lap-Band)

Adjustable gastric banding is when an inflatable band is placed around the top portion of the stomach to create a small pouch. This puts a limit on how much food you can eat.

While it’s a less invasive option, it’s also less effective than gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy. The band can be adjusted over time, but some patients may not experience as much weight loss, and there’s a risk the band could slip or require removal.

Biliopancreatic Diversion with Duodenal Switch (BPD/DS)

This complex surgery involves two steps: first, a sleeve gastrectomy is performed, then part of the small intestine is bypassed. The procedure significantly limits both food intake and nutrient absorption.

BPD/DS is typically reserved for people with severe obesity, and it offers substantial weight loss and improvement in obesity-related conditions. However, because it drastically reduces nutrient absorption, it carries a higher risk of vitamin and mineral deficiencies.

Preparing for Bariatric Surgery

If bariatric surgery is right for you, preparation begins long before the day of the operation. It’s a multi-step process that makes sure you’re physically and mentally ready for the procedure and the lifestyle changes that follow.



• Medical Evaluation: Your bariatric team will start with a thorough medical evaluation, which may include blood tests, imaging studies, and a review of your medical history. This helps the team identify any potential risks and ensure you’re healthy enough for surgery.
• Nutritional Counseling: You’ll work closely with a dietitian to understand the dietary changes required before and after surgery. This often includes a pre-surgery diet designed to shrink the liver and reduce surgical risks. Post-surgery, you’ll need to follow a strict eating plan that progresses from liquids to solid foods over several weeks.
• Psychological Evaluation: Weight loss surgery is life-changing, and it can be emotionally challenging. Many programs require a psychological evaluation so you’re mentally prepared for the surgery and the changes it will bring. Some people struggle with emotional eating, and addressing these issues before surgery can improve long-term success.
• Lifestyle Changes: You’ll also be encouraged to start making healthier lifestyle choices before surgery, such as exercising regularly, quitting smoking, and reducing alcohol intake. These habits will help your body recover faster and set you up for success after the procedure.

What to Expect After Bariatric Surgery

Most patients stay in the hospital for one to three days after the procedure, but the recovery period will vary depending on the type of surgery. You’ll need to take it easy for a few weeks, avoiding strenuous activities as your body heals.

Immediately after surgery, you’ll follow a liquid diet, gradually introducing soft foods and then solid foods over several weeks. Portion sizes will be small, and you’ll need to eat slowly to avoid discomfort.

It’s also important to stay hydrated and focus on high-protein, low-carbohydrate foods. Nutrient absorption is limited after surgery, so you’ll need to take vitamins and supplements for the rest of your life to prevent deficiencies.

Exercise will also play a role in long-term weight loss success. Start slowly with light activities like walking, and gradually increase the intensity as you recover. Exercising regularly helps you lose weight and improves your health.

Long-Term Success and Support

Bariatric surgery is not a quick fix. While it’s a powerful tool for weight loss, long-term success depends on your commitment to making lasting lifestyle changes and committing to ongoing support. 

After surgery, you’ll have regular follow-up appointments with your bariatric team to monitor your progress, check for complications, and adjust your diet or supplements as needed. These appointments are essential for staying on track and addressing any concerns.

Many bariatric programs offer support groups where you can connect with others who have undergone similar procedures. Sharing your experiences, challenges, and successes can provide motivation and emotional support throughout your journey.

For some people, weight loss surgery can trigger emotional challenges, especially if they have a history of using food as a coping mechanism. Working with a therapist or counselor can help you navigate these emotions and develop healthier coping strategies.

The Benefits of Bariatric Care

Bariatric care can transform lives, offering significant weight loss and improved health. Many people see improvements in obesity-related conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and sleep apnea. For others, the benefits extend beyond physical health, leading to improved self-esteem, mobility, and overall quality of life.

Long-term success with bariatric care, however, also requires dedication to healthy eating, regular exercise, and ongoing medical care. With the right support, bariatric care can help you achieve lasting weight loss and a healthier future.

Is Bariatric Care Right for You?

Deciding whether to pursue bariatric care is a personal choice that should be made in consultation with a medical professional. If you’re struggling with obesity and its related health issues, bariatric care could offer the solution you’ve been looking for. But remember, it’s a tool—not a cure. Long-term success depends on your commitment to making the necessary lifestyle changes.

Whether you’re just beginning your weight loss journey or considering surgery as the next step, bariatric care offers a comprehensive approach to managing obesity and improving overall health. By understanding the process, preparing for surgery, and committing to long-term changes, you can take control of your health and enjoy a brighter, healthier future.

At Bayou Bend Health System, we’ll help you with all your bariatric needs. Contact us today to get started!