What Are the Types of Bariatric Surgery? Which Procedure Should You Choose? Bariatric surgery is one of the effective treatment options aimed at achieving long-term weight control and improving obesity-related diseases. Today, different surgical procedures are performed according to each patient's needs. 1. Sleeve Gastrectomy (Gastric Sleeve) This is one of the most commonly performed bariatric procedures. Approximately 75–80% of the stomach is removed, creating a smaller, sleeve-shaped stomach. Advantages: - Promotes fullness with smaller portions. - Supports long-term weight loss. - Does not alter the structure of the intestines. However, acid reflux may develop or existing reflux may worsen after surgery. 2. Gastric Bypass Surgery A small portion of the stomach is formed into a new stomach pouch, and the small intestine is connected to this pouch. This changes the route food takes through the digestive system. Advantages: - May provide effective weight loss. - May improve the management of type 2 diabetes. - May reduce reflux symptoms in suitable patients. Regular follow-up is necessary because of risks such as vitamin and mineral deficiencies and dumping syndrome. 3. Mini Gastric Bypass Also known as one-anastomosis gastric bypass, this procedure involves creating a long stomach pouch and making a single connection to the small intestine. Advantages: - May provide effective weight loss. - May improve the management of metabolic diseases in some patients. - Offers an alternative surgical approach for selected patients. Potential risks, including bile reflux and nutritional deficiencies, must be evaluated. 4. Duodenal Switch Surgery This procedure combines stomach reduction with a change in the route food takes through the small intestine. It is a more complex surgical technique. Advantages: - May provide substantial weight loss, particularly in patients with severe obesity. - May lead to significant improvements in metabolic diseases such as type 2 diabetes. Because the risk of vitamin, mineral, and protein deficiencies is higher, close lifelong follow-up is required. 5. Revisional Bariatric Surgery These are corrective procedures performed in patients who have previously undergone bariatric surgery because of insufficient weight loss, weight regain, or surgical complications. The type of revisional surgery is determined according to the previous procedure and the patient's current condition. Which Bariatric Procedure Is Most Appropriate? The following factors are evaluated when selecting a procedure: - Body mass index (BMI) - Type 2 diabetes and other metabolic diseases - Reflux and digestive system problems - Previous surgeries - Eating habits - Ability to adhere to long-term follow-up and lifestyle changes There is no single best surgical procedure for every patient. The surgical decision should be made following an evaluation by a bariatric surgery team. Bariatric Surgery in Türkiye Specialized healthcare centers in Türkiye offer sleeve gastrectomy, gastric bypass, and other bariatric surgical procedures. International patients can share their medical reports and request treatment options and cost estimates from different hospitals. When choosing a hospital, priority should be given to the surgeon's experience, patient safety, and postoperative follow-up services. Conclusion Different bariatric procedures offer different benefits and risks depending on individual patient needs. The right surgical procedure should aim not only for weight loss but also for long-term health and quality of life.