The main goals of weight-loss surgery are to:
- Help the patient achieve a more normal weight
- Reduce comorbidities and improve overall health
- Extend life expectancy and quality of life
- Improve the patient’s self-image and psychological health
- Modify behavior
Once it is determined that you are a potential candidate for surgical weight loss, and the appropriate tests have been performed, you and your surgeon will discuss surgical options. All types of weight-loss surgery are performed at Lahey Hospital & Medical Center—Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, laparoscopic adjustable gastric band, duodenal switch and revisional surgery for failure after other procedures.
Nearly all of the weight-loss surgeries performed at Lahey Hospital & Medical Center are performed laparoscopically. Laparoscopic surgery is performed through small incisions, as opposed to the large surgical opening used in traditional surgeries. Performing surgery this way cuts down on complications and speeds up your recovery time. Sometimes, some patients are not candidates for laparoscopic surgery. For these people, the procedure is done through a traditional open surgery.