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For 10+ Years
2012 – 2023
Dr. Preeti Malladi: Premier Bariatric Surgeon Serving Richardson
At Malladi Bariatrics & Advanced Surgery, we offer life-changing bariatric surgery solutions for residents of Richardson. Led by the highly skilled and compassionate Dr. Preeti Malladi, our team is dedicated to helping you reach your health and wellness goals.
Bariatric Surgery Options for Weight Loss
What is a Gastric Sleeve?
The sleeve gastrectomy is a highly popular procedure and is the most commonly performed bariatric surgery in the Richardson area. In this minimally invasive surgical procedure, the stomach is made smaller in order to limit food intake and suppress hunger.
With a sleeve gastrectomy, about three-fourths of the patient’s stomach is removed, leaving a tube or gastric sleeve behind. The smaller sleeve-like section holds much less food so the patient must eat less. The removal of a large part of the stomach means the body produces less of the hormone that produces a feeling of hunger.
The primary benefit is that you can eat less and still feel satisfied. Just as with any weight loss surgery, a sleeve gastrectomy does not replace diet and exercise. But it is a critically important tool to use in combination with them to regain control of your health. When the gastric sleeve procedure is combined with these other important lifestyle changes, most surgery patients can expect significant weight loss within the first year.
What is Gastric Bypass?
Gastric bypass is the second most commonly performed bariatric procedure in Richardson. It is an excellent tool for combating obesity. In gastric bypass, a small pouch is created by stapling the upper part of the stomach. The smaller portion of the stomach is then attached directly to the small intestine, bypassing a large portion of the stomach and the upper part of the small intestine (duodenum). In this minimally invasive surgical procedure, the stomach is made smaller to limit food intake and suppress hunger, and the intestines are modified to limit calorie absorption.
In a laparoscopic gastric bypass, the patient’s stomach is divided into two sections, a small upper pouch portion and a larger lower section. The bariatric surgeon then connects the small intestines to the pouch, rerouting the digestive system. Food will travel down the esophagus and enter the smaller pouch, then proceed through the intestines, bypassing the majority of the original stomach.
The results of a gastric bypass can be dramatic. Within the first year, most patients can lose on average 60-80% of their excess weight. After a year to eighteen months, weight loss usually slows down and eventually stops, at which point consistent exercise and proper diet are needed to maintain a healthy weight. As you continue your weight loss journey, you will also see improvements in certain weight-related conditions, such as acid reflux, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, and type 2 diabetes.
What is a Gastric Band?
This has historically been a commonly performed procedure, but has been replaced in popularity with the sleeve gastrectomy. The issues with long-term outcomes have led to band removals and conversions to other surgical weight loss options.
The gastric band is connected by a tube to a port just under the skin. To inflate the band, the surgeon accesses the port through the skin to add sterile saline solution. Inflating the band decreases the opening to the stomach and decreases the amount of food it can hold. This causes the patient to eat smaller portions and lose weight.
While gastric bands work well for some, and offer some advantages, results have been inconsistent. Some patients have experienced significant weight regain or inadequate weight loss. Other patients have had complications. Gastric banding patients who have regained weight, experienced complications, or who notice new or worsening symptoms are likely eligible for gastric band removal or revision surgery.
Are You A Candidate for Bariatric Weight Loss Surgery?
Based on the latest research, the current criteria from the American Society of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery for weight loss surgery are listed here. However, insurance coverage criteria will probably differ from this list and usually follow the older criteria of BMI > 40 or BMI from 35-40 with obesity-related medical conditions. We will help you find out if your insurance covers bariatric surgery and what their specific criteria are.
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Surgical Weight Loss For Lasting Results & Better Long-Term Health Outcomes
Discover how our patients’ lives in Richardson and beyond have been transformed through our expert care and surgical solutions.
Ready to Transform Your Life with Bariatric Surgery?
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Malladi to discuss your weight loss goals and explore whether or not bariatric surgery is right for you. We’ll answer your questions, address your concerns, and help you make an informed decision about your health. With locations convenient to Richardson, a new beginning is closer than ever.