Bariatric surgery is a group of procedures designed to help people with obesity lose weight. Doctors usually recommend bariatric surgery when other ways of how to lose weight have not worked and excess weight is already causing health problems.

How Is Bariatric Surgery Done?

Although this procedure is still uncommon in Indonesia, bariatric surgery is widely used in many other countries as one of the treatments of obesity.

These procedures alter the digestive system so the body takes in and absorbs fewer calories. They can also reduce hunger signals sent from the gut to the brain, which helps the patient to not eat exccessive portions.

According to the Ministry of Health’s p2ptm website, two main approaches of bariatric surgery are currently used here:

Reversible bariatric surgery (can be reversed)

In a reversible procedure, doctors often use gastric banding. A band or small tube is placed around the upper part of the stomach and connected to a tiny pump that is implanted under the skin.

Sterile fluid is injected into the band or tube so it expands and tightens around the upper stomach. This creates a much smaller pouch that makes you feel full faster.

Irreversible bariatric surgery (the condition remains permanent)

Irreversible procedures are permanent. Common options include gastric bypass and reconstructive changes to the digestive tract, such as laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy.

This reconstruction of gastrointestinal track helps the stomach adjust and supports long-term results, lowering the chance of regaining weight later.

Who Can Undergo Bariatric Surgery?

While these operations support weight loss, they are not suitable for everyone.

Based on guidance from the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery, candidates include:

• People with a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher
• Overweight or obese individuals with comorbidities such as heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, liver disease, sleep disorders, and type 2 diabetes
• People who have been unable to lose weight despite multiple structured weight-loss programs

Dr. Errawan Wiradisuria, SpB-KBD, M.Kes, president of the Indonesian Endolaparoscopic Surgery Association (PBEI) and secretary general of the Indonesian Association of Digestive Surgeons, adds that patients with a BMI below 30 may also qualify if they have comorbidities such as heart disease, diabetes mellitus, hyperlipidemia (excess fat in the blood), asthma, or hypercholesterolemia (excess cholesterol in the blood).

If you meet the criteria, your doctor will determine which surgical technique is most appropriate.

How Effective Is Bariatric Surgery for Weight Loss?

Nearly 90% of patients undergoing bariatric surgery lose about 50% of their excess weight after the surgery. Results can differ between procedures.

Individual health conditions and their body’s capacity to adapt and recover also influence outcomes from one person to another.

Weight does not drop instantly. Progress is usually evaluated 18–24 months after the procedure.

Lasting success also depends on lifestyle changes made with commitment and consistency. Ongoing consultations with a nutritionist are important to ensure your eating pattern and nutrient intake are appropriate without overeating. 

Considering a bariatric procedure? Speak with your doctor to see whether you are a suitable candidate for bariatric surgery to help you lose weight.

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