Obesity surgeries, also known as bariatric surgeries or weight loss surgeries, are medical procedures designed to help individuals who are severely overweight or obese achieve significant weight loss and improve their overall health. These surgeries are typically recommended when other weight loss methods, such as diet and exercise, have not been successful, and when obesity poses significant health risks.

There are several types of obesity surgeries, each with its own approach and mechanism for promoting weight loss. Some of the common types of obesity surgeries include:

1. Gastric Bypass (Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass): This procedure involves creating a small pouch from the top of the stomach and connecting it directly to the small intestine, bypassing a portion of the stomach and the upper part of the small intestine. This limits the amount of food a person can eat and reduces the absorption of calories and nutrients.
2. Sleeve Gastrectomy: In this surgery, a portion of the stomach is removed, leaving behind a smaller, banana-shaped stomach. This reduces the stomach’s capacity, making individuals feel full more quickly and reducing their food intake.
3. Adjustable Gastric Banding (Lap-Band): This procedure involves placing an adjustable band around the upper part of the stomach, creating a small pouch. The band can be tightened or loosened to control the rate of food passage, helping with portion control.
4. Biliopancreatic Diversion with Duodenal Switch (BPD/DS): This complex surgery involves the removal of a large portion of the stomach and rerouting of the digestive tract to reduce calorie absorption. It is typically recommended for individuals with severe obesity.
5. Gastric Balloon: This non-surgical procedure involves placing a temporary balloon in the stomach, which takes up space and limits food intake. The balloon is typically removed after a few months.
6. Gastric Plication: In this procedure, the stomach is folded and stitched to reduce its size and limit food intake. It does not involve the removal of any stomach tissue.

These surgeries are typically considered for individuals with a body mass index (BMI) above a certain threshold and who have not had success with other weight loss methods. Weight loss surgeries can lead to significant weight loss, improvement in obesity-related health conditions (such as type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure), and an overall enhancement in quality of life.

It’s important to note that obesity surgeries carry risks and should be performed by experienced surgeons in specialized bariatric centers. Candidates for these procedures should undergo a thorough evaluation and counseling to determine the most suitable surgical option based on their individual health and lifestyle factors. Additionally, long-term post-operative care and lifestyle changes are crucial for successful and sustained weight loss.