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What bariatric surgery is

Bariatric (metabolic) surgery is a group of operations on the stomach and intestine that help people with severe obesity lose weight and improve conditions such as type 2 diabetes, sleep apnoea and high blood pressure. Surgeons are usually general or laparoscopic surgeons with an MS/DNB and additional bariatric training. The surgery is performed by keyhole technique in most cases.

Who may qualify

Indian guidelines use lower body mass index (BMI) thresholds than Western ones because of higher health risk at lower weights: surgery may be considered for BMI of 35 or more, or 32.5 or more with obesity-related disease such as diabetes, after diet, exercise and medical treatment have been tried. Candidates should be medically fit, understand the commitment, and receive counselling.

Common procedures

• Sleeve gastrectomy: removes most of the stomach, reducing hunger and intake.
• Gastric bypass: creates a small stomach pouch and reroutes the intestine; effective for diabetes and reflux.
• Other procedures such as mini-bypass or revision surgery in selected cases.

Risks and lifelong follow-up

Risks include bleeding, leaks, infection, blood clots, nutritional deficiency and gallstones. After surgery you will need lifelong vitamin and mineral supplements, regular follow-up and healthy eating. Tests include HbA1c, lipid profile, liver function, thyroid, vitamin D, B12, ferritin and folate, plus an endoscopy, ultrasound and cardiac and anaesthesia assessment.

Costs and choosing

Consultation fees commonly range from about ₹700 to ₹2,000 and may vary. Surgical costs vary widely by procedure, hospital and city, and insurance coverage varies; ask what is included. Choose a surgeon and centre with a multidisciplinary team (dietitian, physician, psychologist) and good follow-up. Compare bariatric surgeons and book on Lab Dekho.

Trusted References

This guide is original content informed by recognised medical and public-health sources. For further reading:

• NABH – hospital accreditation standards
• NABL – laboratory accreditation
• Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY
• Ministry of Health & Family Welfare
• Mayo Clinic – Patient care & health information
• Cleveland Clinic – Health Library
• WebMD – Health A–Z

Disclaimer: This guide is for general information and does not replace advice from a qualified doctor. Costs and fees are approximate and vary by provider. Institution names are given for orientation only; check current services and timings directly. In an emergency, call 108 or 112.