India is becoming one of the most sought after destinations for bariatric surgery, offering world class healthcare services at affordable prices.

For those battling obesity and struggling to achieve sustainable weight loss, bariatric surgery can be a life changing solution.

This blog by Karetrip will walk you through what bariatric surgery entails, why India is an excellent choice for the procedure, and what you can expect during your weight loss journey.

Understanding Bariatric Surgery

Bariatric surgery, often referred to as weight loss surgery, is a medical procedure aimed at helping people with obesity lose weight. This type of surgery is typically recommended when traditional weight loss methods like diet and exercise have not been effective.

Bariatric surgery involves altering the digestive system to reduce food intake or nutrient absorption, leading to significant weight loss.

There are several types of bariatric surgery, including

• Gastric Bypass: This surgery involves creating a small stomach pouch and rerouting the intestines to this pouch, thereby reducing the amount of food the patient can eat and the calories absorbed.

• Sleeve Gastrectomy: In this procedure, approximately 80% of the stomach is removed, leaving a tube shaped or "sleeve" stomach. This reduces the amount of food the stomach can hold and helps reduce hunger hormones.

• Adjustable Gastric Banding (AGB): A band is placed around the upper part of the stomach to create a small pouch, limiting food intake and making the patient feel full sooner.

• Biliopancreatic Diversion with Duodenal Switch (BPD/DS): This procedure involves removing a portion of the stomach and rerouting the intestines to reduce calorie absorption. It's the most complex of the bariatric surgeries and is often reserved for patients with severe obesity.

Why Choose India for Bariatric Surgery?

India has quickly become a hub for medical tourism, particularly for bariatric surgery, due to its high quality healthcare services and affordable costs. There are several reasons why people from across the globe choose India for their weight loss surgery

• World Class Surgeons and Hospitals

India boasts some of the most experienced bariatric surgeons in the world, many of whom have been trained or have worked in leading medical institutions abroad.

These surgeons are backed by top tier hospitals that are accredited by international healthcare bodies like Joint Commission International (JCI) and National Accreditation Board for Hospitals & Healthcare Providers (NABH). Patients can rest assured they will receive excellent care throughout their treatment.

• Cost Effective Surgery

One of the biggest draws of bariatric surgery in India is its affordability. The cost of bariatric surgery in India is significantly lower than in Western countries like the United States or the United Kingdom. This includes not only the surgery itself but also hospital stays, medications, and postsurgery care.

• Short Waiting Times

In many Western countries, patients may have to wait months, or even years, to undergo bariatric surgery. In India, the waiting time is much shorter, meaning patients can get the treatment they need without long delays. Most hospitals in India offer prompt scheduling for international patients, allowing them to plan their surgery and recovery with ease.

• Comprehensive Care and Support

India's healthcare system offers a holistic approach to weight loss surgery. Bariatric surgery in India is not just about the procedure itself; it also includes comprehensive pre surgery counselling, diet planning, and postsurgery support.

Surgeons and nutritionists work closely with patients to ensure they are prepared for the lifestyle changes that come with weight loss surgery and provide long term support to help maintain the results.

• Medical Tourism Packages

Many hospitals in India offer all inclusive medical tourism packages for international patients. These packages cover everything from transportation and accommodation to the surgery itself, making the process of travelling to India for bariatric surgery much more convenient.

Some packages even include sightseeing tours, allowing patients and their families to explore India's rich culture and history while they recover.

The Weight Loss Journey: What to Expect

Undergoing bariatric surgery is a major decision and involves several stages, from preparation to post surgery recovery.

Here’s a detailed overview of what the typical weight loss journey looks like

• PreSurgery Preparation

Before undergoing bariatric surgery, patients must undergo a thorough medical evaluation. This includes a physical examination, blood tests, imaging studies, and psychological assessments to ensure they are suitable candidates for surgery.

Surgeons will also discuss the different types of bariatric surgery available and help patients choose the best option based on their medical history and weight loss goals.

Patients are usually required to follow a pre surgery diet to reduce the size of their liver and prepare their body for surgery. This diet typically involves a high protein, low carbohydrate meal plan that helps shrink the liver, making the surgery easier and safer.

• The Surgery

Bariatric surgery is typically performed using minimally invasive techniques such as laparoscopic surgery. This involves making small incisions in the abdomen and using a camera (laparoscope) to guide the surgeon during the procedure. Minimally invasive surgery results in less pain, a shorter hospital stay, and a quicker recovery time compared to traditional open surgery.

Most bariatric surgeries take between 1 to 3 hours, depending on the type of procedure. After the surgery, patients are monitored in the hospital for a few days to ensure there are no complications.

• PostSurgery Recovery

The recovery process after bariatric surgery varies depending on the individual and the type of surgery performed. Most patients can return to normal activities within 4 to 6 weeks. However, it's important to follow a strict postsurgery diet and exercise plan to ensure the surgery is successful.

In the first few weeks after surgery, patients are typically limited to a liquid or pureed diet before gradually reintroducing solid foods. They will work closely with a nutritionist to develop a healthy eating plan that supports their weight loss goals and prevents complications like nutrient deficiencies.

• LongTerm Success

Bariatric surgery is not a quick fix for obesity—it’s a tool to help patients achieve long term weight loss. To maintain their results, patients must commit to a healthy lifestyle that includes regular exercise, a balanced diet, and follow up appointments with their healthcare team.

Many patients experience significant weight loss in the first 6 to 12 months after surgery. However, the journey doesn't end there. Long Term success requires ongoing support from healthcare providers, as well as a commitment to making permanent lifestyle changes.

Benefits of Bariatric Surgery

Bariatric surgery offers numerous health benefits beyond weight loss. Some of the most common benefits include

• Improved Overall Health: Weight loss surgery can help resolve or improve conditions related to obesity, such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, and joint pain.

• Increased Mobility: As patients lose weight, they often find it easier to move around and engage in physical activities, improving their quality of life.

• Boosted Mental Health: Obesity can take a toll on mental health, leading to depression, anxiety, and low self esteem. Many patients report improved mental wellbeing after bariatric surgery, as their physical health improves and they gain confidence.

• Longer Life Expectancy: Studies have shown that bariatric surgery can increase life expectancy by reducing the risk of obesity related complications, such as heart disease and stroke.

The information provided represents the views and opinions of Karetrip. It is crucial to conduct your own independent research before making any decisions regarding your healthcare journey.