Posted - July 20, 2009

Weight Loss Expectations after Bariatric Surgery

There are so many different weight loss surgeries to choose from that the literature you must study before you decide on one is tremendous. While there are many factors to consider before you decide which weight loss surgery procedure to undergo, weight loss expectations following bariatric surgery is a significant factor for many people.

Although results vary according to your starting weight, existing medical conditions, and adherence to post surgical diet and lifestyle changes, as a general rule of thumb most people experience weight loss results similar to the following:

LAP-BAND: Patients who have LAP BAND surgery can expect to lose anywhere between 50% and 60% of excess bodyweight by the end of two years.

Sleeve Gastrectomy: Patients who undergo a sleeve gastrectomy generally lose between 60% and 70% of the excess weight they were carrying in the first two years. Long term results for sleeve gastrectomy as a stand alone procedure are not yet available. .

Gastric Bypass: Gastric bypass is the most frequently performed weight loss surgery in the United States and typically yields a 70% weight loss in 2 years.  

Duodenal Switch: Patients who have a duodenal switch generally experience the highest weight loss results of all the bariatric surgeries with over 80% of their excess weight lost at two years after their surgery.

When making this decision, one must be completely comfortable with the factors in the surgery they choose. Be sure to do adequate research, and find out which results will fit best with your lifestyle, preferences, and health goals. While there are several options, not all will be suitable for you based on your weight, health, and lifestyle.  Dr. Stewart will explain your options in great detail and assist you to find the surgery that will give you the best long-term weight loss results.