Laparoscopic Weight Loss Surgery

For the last decade, laparoscopic procedures have been used in a variety of general surgeries. Many people mistakenly believe that these techniques are still "experimental." Laparoscopy, however, has become the predominant technique in some areas of surgery and has been used for weight loss surgery for several years. Although few bariatric surgeons perform laparoscopic weight loss surgeries, more are offering patients this less invasive surgical option whenever possible.

The bariatric surgeons at the Newton-Wellesley Hospital Center for Weight Loss Surgery are experts in the use of laparoscopy for weight loss surgery. This technique can reduce operation times and recovery times without sacrificing the value of the weight loss surgery. It’s one of the many reasons patients come to us from communities throughout Greater Boston and all of New England, for weight loss surgery.

When a laparoscopic operation is performed, a small video camera is inserted into the abdomen. The surgeon views the procedure on a separate video monitor. Most laparoscopic surgeons believe this gives them better visualization and access to key anatomical structures.

The camera and surgical instruments are inserted through small incisions made in the abdominal wall. This approach is considered less invasive because it replaces the need for one long incision to open the abdomen.

A recent study shows that patients who had laparoscopic weight loss surgery experience less pain after surgery resulting in easier breathing and lung function and higher overall oxygen levels.

Other realized benefits with laparoscopy have been fewer wound complications, such as infection or hernia, and patients returning more quickly to pre-surgical levels of activity.

Laparoscopic procedures for weight loss surgery use the same principles as their "open" counterparts and produce similar excess weight loss. Not all patients are candidates for this approach, just as all bariatric surgeons are not trained in the advanced techniques required to perform this less invasive method.

The American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery  recommends that laparoscopic weight loss surgery should only be performed by surgeons who are experienced in both laparoscopic and open bariatric procedures.

Learn more about bariatric surgery at Newton-Wellesley Hospital’s Center for Weight Loss Surgery or contact us to arrange a consultation.