Adolescent bariatric surgery helps teens aged 17 and older achieve a healthier weight. Under Dr. Chad Carlton’s expert care, you can expect compassionate support and effective treatment for your teenager, helping them embark on a new path to improved health and well-being.
Help Your Teenager Overcome Obesity
Adolescent bariatric surgery is a weight-loss procedure for teens aged 17 and older struggling with obesity. Dr. Chad Carlton and his team at LoneStar Bariatrics perform this surgery to help teens achieve a healthier weight and improve related health conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure. The surgery generally involves reducing the size of the stomach to limit food intake and promote weight loss, but the specific techniques used may differ. This surgery can help your teenager overcome obesity and lead a healthier, more active life.
Possible Reasons for Adolescent Bariatric Surgery:
- Severe obesity that has not responded to diet and exercise
- Health issues like type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure linked to obesity
- Obstructive sleep apnea, which affects the quality of sleep and overall health
- Difficulty participating in physical activities due to weight
- Emotional and psychological distress related to obesity
- Risk of developing serious health conditions in the future
- Struggling with weight management despite trying multiple weight loss programs
How Does Adolescent Bariatric Surgery Work?
Promoting Healthy Weight
Adolescent bariatric surgery promotes weight loss by altering the digestive system to reduce food intake and absorption. These changes help teenagers eat less, feel full sooner, and absorb fewer calories, leading to significant weight loss and improved health. Here are the main types of adolescent bariatric surgery.
Gastric Bypass
Gastric bypass surgery involves creating a small pouch at the top of the stomach and connecting it directly to the small intestine. This bypasses a large part of the stomach and the first section of the small intestine, reducing the body’s absorption of calories and nutrients. The smaller stomach pouch also limits the amount of food one can eat, helping to reduce calorie intake and promote significant and sustainable weight loss.
Gastric Sleeve
Gastric sleeve surgery, also known as sleeve gastrectomy, involves removing a large portion of the stomach, which leaves a tube-shaped section of the stomach that looks like a sleeve. This smaller stomach can hold less food, which helps to limit food intake. Additionally, this procedure affects hunger-related hormones like Ghrelin, thus reducing the desire to eat and helping teenagers feel full with smaller amounts of food. This promotes sustainable weight loss.
Gastric Banding
Gastric banding involves placing an adjustable band around the upper part of the stomach to create a small pouch. This band can be tightened or loosened over time to control the size of the stomach opening. By restricting the amount of food the stomach can hold, gastric banding helps teenagers eat less and feel full sooner. This adjustable approach allows for gradual weight loss and can be customized to each patient’s needs.
Is My Teenager a Candidate for Adolescent Bariatric Surgery?
If your teenager is 17 or older and struggling with severe obesity that hasn’t improved with diet and exercise, they might be a candidate for bariatric surgery. Additionally, if they have weight-related health issues like type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or sleep apnea, surgery could be beneficial. It’s essential to consult with a specialist like Dr. Carlton, who will evaluate your teenager’s overall health, weight history, and readiness for surgery to determine if this life-changing procedure is the right option.
How Much Weight Can My Teenager Lose With Adolescent Bariatric Surgery?
Adolescent bariatric surgery can lead to significant weight loss for your teenager. On average, teens can expect to lose 50-70% of their excess weight within the first year after surgery. The exact amount depends on the type of surgery, adherence to dietary guidelines, and lifestyle changes. Under Dr. Carlton’s guidance, your teenager will receive comprehensive support to maximize their weight loss and maintain it long-term. This weight loss can significantly improve their health, self-esteem, and overall quality of life.
Adolescent Bariatric Surgery FAQs
What is the Recovery Time for Adolescent Bariatric Surgery?
The recovery time varies depending on the type of surgery performed. Generally, most teenagers can return to school and normal activities within 2-4 weeks. However, full recovery and adjustment to new eating habits may take a few months.
Will My Teenager Need to Follow a Special Diet After Surgery?
Yes, your teenager will need to follow a specific diet after surgery. Initially, they will start with liquids and gradually transition to soft foods and then solid foods. Long-term dietary changes will be necessary to ensure sustained weight loss and proper nutrition.
Why Choose Dr. Carlton?
Dr. Carlton is a highly skilled and compassionate surgeon with over 15 years of experience. He is a board-certified bariatric and general surgeon dedicated to offering comprehensive support to his patients before, during, and after surgery. He and the entire LoneStar team provide personalized guidance and help each patient address the physical and emotional aspects of their weight loss journey. To learn more about how Dr. Carlton can help your teenager achieve a healthier weight and lifestyle, schedule your consultation today.
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Bariatrics Today
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