Gastrointestinal Surgery
Obesity is not just a cosmetic concern—it is a serious medical condition that significantly raises the risk of many chronic illnesses, including type 2 diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, osteoarthritis, sleep apnea, and certain types of cancer. While diet, exercise, and behavioral modifications are crucial in weight management, they may not be enough for individuals with severe obesity. That’s where bariatric surgery becomes a powerful, evidence-based intervention.
Dr. Santhosh R, a highly trained GI and minimally invasive surgeon with vast experience in advanced bariatric procedures, is at the forefront of this transformative field. His approach combines surgical expertise with patient-centered care, helping individuals lose weight and regain health, energy, and confidence.
What Is Bariatric Surgery?
Bariatric surgery is a group of procedures designed to help patients lose significant weight by altering the digestive system. These surgeries work through different mechanisms:
- Restriction: Limiting how much food the stomach can hold.
- Malabsorption: Reducing the number of calories and nutrients absorbed.
- Hormonal effects: Modifying hunger and satiety hormones.
Unlike temporary weight-loss strategies, bariatric surgery offers sustained results and has been shown to reverse or significantly improve many obesity-related health conditions.
Common Types of Bariatric Procedures
Dr. Santhosh R customizes surgical plans for each patient, selecting the most appropriate technique based on their medical history, BMI, lifestyle, and personal goals.
1. Sleeve Gastrectomy
One of the most commonly performed bariatric procedures today, this surgery involves removing about 75–80% of the stomach, leaving behind a narrow, sleeve-shaped stomach.
- Restricts food intake
- Reduces hunger hormone (ghrelin)
- No intestinal rerouting
- Excellent weight-loss results with low complication rates
2. Gastric Bypass (Roux-en-Y)
This procedure creates a small stomach pouch and reroutes part of the small intestine.
- Limits food intake and absorption
- Highly effective in resolving type 2 diabetes
- Often recommended for patients with severe GERD or metabolic syndrome
3. Mini Gastric Bypass
A streamlined version of the Roux-en-Y with fewer surgical steps.
- Shorter surgery time
- Comparable weight loss to traditional bypass
- Suitable for select patients
4. Revisional Bariatric Surgery
This is for patients who had a previous weight-loss procedure and are experiencing weight regain or complications.
Dr. Santhosh performs all these procedures using laparoscopic or robotic techniques, which minimize scarring and promote faster recovery.
Who Is a Candidate for Bariatric Surgery?
Bariatric surgery is not for everyone. It is reserved for individuals who:
- Have a Body Mass Index (BMI) over 40
- Or have a BMI of 35–39.9 with obesity-related conditions like diabetes, hypertension, or sleep apnea
- Have tried but failed to lose weight through conventional means
- Are psychologically prepared and committed to long-term lifestyle changes
Before surgery, Dr. Santhosh and his multidisciplinary team conduct comprehensive evaluations, including physical assessments, lab tests, nutrition and lifestyle counseling, and psychological screening.
Benefits That Go Beyond the Scale
The impact of bariatric surgery is profound and life-altering. While weight loss is the most visible benefit, many other health improvements occur as well:
- Type 2 Diabetes Remission: Many patients see blood sugar normalization within days.
- Lowered Blood Pressure & Cholesterol: Reduces cardiovascular risks.
- Improved Sleep: Relief from obstructive sleep apnea.
- Less Joint Pain: Enhanced mobility and less wear on joints.
- Improved Fertility: Especially in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
- Mental Health Boost: Greater confidence and reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Most patients also report better social engagement, work performance, and overall quality of life.
Minimally Invasive & Robotic Expertise
Thanks to advanced surgical techniques, most bariatric procedures are now done using laparoscopy or robotic assistance, offering several advantages:
- Small incisions with minimal scarring
- Less postoperative pain
- Reduced risk of infection
- Shorter hospital stay (typically 1–2 days)
- Quicker return to normal activities
Dr. Santhosh R is experienced in both techniques and tailors the approach to maximize safety and results.
Life After Surgery: The Journey Continues
Surgery is just the beginning of a life-changing journey. Success depends on the patient’s ongoing commitment to healthier habits. After the procedure, patients follow a structured plan that includes:
- Gradual reintroduction of foods, starting with liquids
- Ongoing nutrition guidance and meal planning
- Regular physical activity
- Lifelong vitamin and mineral supplementation
- Scheduled follow-ups with Dr. Santhosh and his team
Support groups and psychological counseling are also encouraged to help patients adjust emotionally and socially to their new lifestyle.
Why Choose Dr. Santhosh R?
Choosing a surgeon is one of the most critical decisions in the bariatric journey. Patients trust Dr. Santhosh R for his:
- Specialized training in surgical gastroenterology and advanced bariatric techniques
- Patient-centric approach with clear communication
- High safety standards and excellent outcomes
- Continuity of care before, during, and after surgery
Dr. Santhosh R’s commitment extends beyond the operating room—he becomes a lifelong partner in the patient’s wellness journey.
Ready to Transform Your Life?
Obesity shouldn’t stand in the way of living fully. If you’ve struggled with weight and associated health issues, bariatric surgery could be your path to a healthier future.
Book a consultation with Dr. Santhosh R to learn more about your options. With expert care, modern surgical methods, and a supportive team behind you, long-term weight loss and better health are within your reach.
