A spectrum of interventions exists to address challenging cases of excess weight or persistent fat deposits. Specifically designed to combat the negative health consequences of obesity, bariatric surgery constitutes a category of treatments that bring about changes in the digestive system, thereby restricting food intake. This surgical approach is a comprehensive method for weight management.

Conversely, liposuction represents a cosmetic, body-contouring procedure with a focus on the targeted removal of localized fat. While both bariatric surgery and liposuction may lead to weight loss, it’s imperative to discern their respective applications. Liposuction is most effective for refining body contours and addressing isolated fat deposits, whereas bariatric surgery is a more holistic approach for significant and sustained weight loss.

This article aims to elucidate the nuanced differences between bariatric surgery and liposuction to aid individuals in making informed decisions about their weight management journey. However, it is strongly advised to seek guidance from a healthcare professional to receive personalized advice and ensure an appropriate course of treatment.

 

Understanding Bariatric Surgery

Bariatric surgery encompasses various procedures aimed at altering your body’s digestive processes, resulting in substantial and sustained weight loss when complemented by dietary and lifestyle adjustments. Each bariatric surgery technique comes with its unique set of pros and cons, requiring thorough deliberation in consultation with a bariatric surgeon and your healthcare provider before making a decision.

 

How Does Bariatric Surgery Function?

Primarily, bariatric surgeries are recommended for individuals facing morbid obesity, defined as a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher, or a BMI of 35 or higher coupled with a related condition such as type 2 diabetes or sleep apnea. In certain cases, these surgeries may also be considered with a BMI of 30 or higher when alternative weight loss measures have proven ineffective.

Although bariatric surgery does not yield immediate results, it prompts rapid weight loss typically occurring within three to six months post-procedure. This weight reduction is attributed to alterations in eating habits and should be complemented by corresponding lifestyle adjustments. After one year, studies have indicated that individuals undergoing gastric bypass, one of the common surgical approaches, experienced a weight loss of 31.2%, while gastric sleeve recipients achieved a 25.2% reduction, and those with gastric band surgery saw a 13.7% decrease in total weight.

Bariatric Procedure Options in Turkey

Gastric Bypass:

Gastric bypass surgery involves a three-step process. Initially, the surgeon uses staples to fashion a smaller pouch from the stomach. Subsequently, they divide the small intestines into two segments. Finally, the pouch is surgically connected, rerouting the upper portion of the intestinal tract.

Gastric Sleeve (Sleeve Gastrectomy):

Also known as sleeve gastrectomy PRN, the gastric sleeve procedure is irreversible and entails removing approximately 80% of the stomach. Using staples, the surgeon creates a sleeve from the remaining portion. This alteration induces a quicker sense of fullness and can influence hormone balances, facilitating weight loss.

Gastric Band:

The gastric band approach introduces no permanent anatomical changes. It involves placing a specialized band, known as a gastric or lap band, around the upper part of the stomach. This band creates a smaller pouch, reducing digestive capacity. Throughout treatment, the surgeon adjusts the band by adding or removing the saline-filled balloon inside, resulting in generally slower or more gradual weight loss compared to other procedures.

 

Possible Side Effects

While generally considered safe, bariatric surgery is linked to various side effects and potential complications. Depending on the specific procedure undergone, individuals may encounter the following:

  • Bleeding
  • Infection
  • Leakage at surgical sites (such as the stomach for gastric sleeve or the junction of the stomach and intestines for gastric bypass)
  • Diarrhea
  • Blood clots

 

In more infrequent instances, severe side effects may necessitate revision surgery or additional interventions, including:

  • Stricture, characterized by a narrowing of the existing stomach or intestines
  • Hernias or tears at incision sites
  • Vitamin or nutrient deficiencies
  • Formation of gallstones

 

Additionally, the rapid weight loss experienced after bariatric surgery can lead to symptoms during the initial three to six months, when weight loss is most rapid. These symptoms may include:

  • Body aches
  • Mood swings
  • Sensation of cold
  • Fatigue
  • Hair loss

 

It is important to note that bariatric surgery, coupled with the swift postoperative changes, may elevate the risk of developing depression and other mental health disorders.7 A psychological assessment is typically required before undergoing treatment, and ongoing counseling may be recommended afterward.

 

What is Liposuction

Administered by a plastic surgeon, liposuction encompasses a set of cosmetic procedures designed to directly eliminate fat from specific areas of the body. While highly effective in enhancing body aesthetics, this surgical technique carries inherent risks, and individuals may encounter associated side effects. Here’s a concise overview of how liposuction operates and what one can anticipate.

 

How Liposuction Works

Liposuction serves as a method to enhance the body’s appearance by selectively removing targeted fat deposits. It is not intended for addressing obesity, managing excess weight, or mitigating associated risks. This procedure is most suitable for individuals with a slight excess weight or unwanted fat deposits in specific areas of the body.2

Categorized as a body contouring treatment, liposuction focuses on the removal of fat deposits from various body regions, including:

  • Thighs
  • Ankles
  • Knees
  • Upper arms
  • Chin
  • Breasts
  • Abdomen
  • Buttocks

After undergoing liposuction, individuals typically experience a transition into their new body shape over a period of four to six weeks.2 Despite posing some risk of complications, liposuction results in significantly less weight loss compared to bariatric surgery.

Liposuction Procedure

Curious about how liposuction works? Here’s a brief breakdown of a typical liposuction procedure.

Preparation:

The procedure is conducted under local anesthesia or while you are sedated to ensure a pain-free experience. The targeted area is meticulously cleaned and sterilized in readiness for surgery.

Incision and Injection:

A small incision is made at the designated area, and tumescent fluid is injected beneath the skin by the surgeon. This fluid aids in breaking down fat deposits, with some surgeons employing guided ultrasound or lasers to liquefy the fat tissue.

Suction:

Using a specialized liposuction machine or a large syringe, the plastic surgeon effectively vacuums or extracts the dislodged fat. Depending on the case, multiple sites may undergo treatment.

Drainage:

Following fat removal, temporary drainage tubes may or may not be fitted for two to three days. These tubes help prevent post-surgical fluid buildup.

Fluid Replacement:

Intravenous (IV) fluid replacement therapy or blood transfusion might be necessary if there is a significant blood loss during the procedure.

Closing Up:

The incision(s) is sealed with bandages and a compression garment. It is crucial to adhere to the surgeon’s instructions on post-surgery care for the treated areas.

It’s important to note that due to the targeted nature of liposuction in removing body fat, additional procedures may be required to address loose or excess skin.

 

Possible Effects

While liposuction is generally considered safe, it is not without potential side effects and risks. The overall complication rate is very low, estimated to be between 0.7% and 2.4%.9 Potential side effects may encompass:2

  • Numbness or tingling at the incision site
  • Shock
  • Swelling and fluid buildup
  • Infection
  • Fat embolism, involving the blockage of arteries or veins by pieces of fat
  • Damage to nerves, skin, organs, or tissues due to the procedure
  • Excessive bleeding or blood clotting
  • Uneven or irregular results, leading to asymmetry
  • Dents or dimples
  • Overdose or adverse reactions to lidocaine, a medication used during surgery
  • Scarring and the development of loose or baggy skin

 

Choosing the Right Treatment for You

Determining the most suitable approach for your needs involves considering several factors when comparing bariatric surgery and liposuction:

  • Liposuction is geared towards cosmetic enhancement, while bariatric surgeries primarily address obesity and associated medical conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes.
  • Liposuction is generally not recommended for individuals who are obese or seeking treatment for obesity.
  • Bariatric surgery may entail permanent alterations to your digestive system and is a more invasive option.
  • Outpatient liposuction typically removes 2 to 8 pounds of fat, whereas bariatric surgeries result in more substantial weight loss.
  • Bariatric surgery targets the root causes of obesity, whereas liposuction focuses solely on altering physical appearance.
  • Bariatric surgery carries a higher risk of serious side effects compared to liposuction.
  • Liposuction yields quicker results, visible within six weeks, while bariatric surgery takes approximately three to six months.
  • Recovery from liposuction is generally faster than from bariatric surgery, which may necessitate an overnight hospital stay.

 

Is it Possible to Combine Bariatric Surgery and Liposuction?

Liposuction can serve as a complementary procedure to enhance the outcomes of bariatric surgery. It is frequently contemplated in conjunction with skin removal to refine the body’s contour or eliminate persistent fat deposits, particularly when lifestyle adjustments tied to the treatment do not produce desired results. The decision to pursue both procedures is a personal one, contingent on your medical condition and the objectives of the intervention.

 

IstanBest Clinic specializes in providing a range of transformative procedures, including bariatric surgery, weight loss surgery, and liposuction. While both bariatric surgery and liposuction aim to eliminate body fat, they differ significantly.

Bariatric surgery comprises a series of treatments designed to modify digestive processes, facilitating weight loss in cases of obesity and associated conditions. This approach involves altering your digestive capacity to promote substantial and sustained weight loss. On the other hand, liposuction is a cosmetic procedure that targets specific areas of the body to remove excess fat content.

Each method comes with its unique applications, advantages, and drawbacks, often necessitating substantial recovery periods. Despite the potential for complications, both bariatric surgery and liposuction are generally effective in producing lasting changes, well-tolerated, and considered safe. The team at IstanBest Clinic is dedicated to providing comprehensive information and guidance to help you make informed decisions about the most suitable procedure for your individual needs.