The Role of Primary Care in Bariatric Surgery

Updates in Medical and Surgical Weight Loss

“…59 Symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea are also affected, with improvement or resolution occurring within one year of surgery. 60 Other benefits of bariatric surgery and subsequent weight loss include reduction in blood pressure, improved lipid profile, improvements in polycystic ovary syndrome and infertility, and improvements in skin conditions, arthritis, and overall quality of life. 60 Individuals planning bariatric surgery are managed by an interprofessional team including a registered dietician, psychologist, bariatric medical specialist, anesthesiology team, and bariatric surgeon.…”

“…60 Other benefits of bariatric surgery and subsequent weight loss include reduction in blood pressure, improved lipid profile, improvements in polycystic ovary syndrome and infertility, and improvements in skin conditions, arthritis, and overall quality of life. 60 Individuals planning bariatric surgery are managed by an interprofessional team including a registered dietician, psychologist, bariatric medical specialist, anesthesiology team, and bariatric surgeon. 47,60 They undergo a comprehensive physical and mental health assessment and meet with the dietician to make a long-term plan to facilitate successful weight loss.…”

“…60 Individuals planning bariatric surgery are managed by an interprofessional team including a registered dietician, psychologist, bariatric medical specialist, anesthesiology team, and bariatric surgeon. 47,60 They undergo a comprehensive physical and mental health assessment and meet with the dietician to make a long-term plan to facilitate successful weight loss. 47 Although the surgery will lead to reduced appetite, it will not change behaviors such as emotional, comfort, and stress eating or the desire for high-calorie foods, so individuals electing surgery need to commit to permanent lifestyle changes to include a well-balanced, structured diet.…”

“…47 Although the surgery will lead to reduced appetite, it will not change behaviors such as emotional, comfort, and stress eating or the desire for high-calorie foods, so individuals electing surgery need to commit to permanent lifestyle changes to include a well-balanced, structured diet. 60 A diet and activity regimen may also be recommended for 2 to 12 weeks prior to surgery with the intent to reduce body fat and liver size. 47…”

“…The gastric band is not recommended for individuals who overeat for emotional reasons. 60 Intragastric balloons were approved by the FDA in 2019 and are placed endoscopically or swallowed by the patient before being inflated with water or air. 54 Removal typically occurs at 4 to 12 months postplacement.…”