Fact or Fiction: Common Misunderstandings about Bariatric Surgery

1: There is only one type of bariatric surgery.

Answer: FICTION | At Trinity Health Michigan, we offer four different bariatric procedures – may vary by location. Talk to your doctor to discuss the best option for you.

Sleeve Gastrectomy:


The Sleeve Gastrectomy is a restrictive surgery that involves permanently removing approximately 80% of the greater curvature of the stomach, in essence creating a “gastric sleeve.” Patients lose weight because they eat less food. This laparoscopic operation can be performed as a primary weight-loss option or as the first stage of a planned two-stage procedure before a Gastric Bypass or Duodenal Switch surgery. The weight loss and reduction of medical problems with a Sleeve Gastrectomy are similar to those of a Gastric Bypass.

Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass:


Patients who choose Gastric Bypass can lose 70% or more of their excess body weight. Although everyone initially loses weight, approximately 20% will gain some of the weight back. The procedure has had a successful track record for more than 20 years. It not only helps patients lose weight but is also beneficial in resolving and/or improving many medical conditions linked to obesity, including type 2 diabetes, hypertension, obstructive sleep apnea and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Duodenal Switch:


The Duodenal Switch (DS) is a combination of restriction and malabsorption of food. Surgically, it is a Sleeve Gastrectomy combined with a “long-limb” Gastric Bypass that can be completed in one or two stages. The DS offers the best weight loss as well as weight maintenance results, with patients losing up to 90% of their excess body weight. Patients enjoy the benefits of a wider range of food choices and fewer calorie restrictions. Patients with DS have a high percent of overall satisfaction due to the higher weight loss and minimal weight regain, making side effects tolerable.

Revision Surgeries:


We perform revisional surgeries for weight regain, inadequate weight loss or complications from previous bariatric procedures.

2: Bariatric surgery can lessen or cure many conditions associated with obesity.

Answer: FACT | Bariatric surgery can cure or lessen many conditions associated with obesity such as diabetes, sleep apnea, hypertension, venous stasis, GERD and soft tissue infections.

3: Bariatric surgery is a guarantee for permanent weight loss.

Answer: FICTION | On average, you can expect to lose between 50% to 70% of excess body weight after bariatric surgery. Almost all patients lose significant weight after bariatric surgery, but it is not a guarantee. While genetics and other factors may affect someone’s response to surgery, the most important determiner of success is a commitment to lifestyle change. Surgery is not an “easy way out” and requires dedication and compliance for optimal results.

4: Insurance won’t cover weight loss surgery.

Answer: FICTION | If you meet specific requirements, your insurance may cover weight loss surgery. Our extended team includes patient coordinators and financial counselors who help you navigate the insurance approval process.

5: You can safely become pregnant after bariatric surgery.

Answer: FACT | Yes, it’s possible to safely become pregnant and have a healthy pregnancy after bariatric surgery. Losing weight and improving your health may increase your chances of becoming pregnant. Your body needs time to heal from surgery and adjust to your new nutritional needs. That’s why it’s helpful to wait at least 18 months after surgery before trying to start or expand your family.

Ready to take the next step in your weight-loss journey?

Register for our free educational seminar today: Southeast Michigan West Michigan