LOOK BEYOND WEIGHT LOSS: THE REAL PURPOSE OF BARIATRIC SURGERY

Obesity has silently turned into one of the biggest health epidemics of the 21st century. India is witnessing a sharp rise in obesity-related diseases like diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea, and fatty liver disease—even among the younger population.

- DR. PANKAJ SHARMA

While lifestyle modification remains the first line of treatment, many people fail to achieve long-term results due to underlying metabolic resistance. In such cases, bariatric surgery has emerged as a scientifically proven and lifesaving treatment option. Yet, when it comes to obesity surgery or bariatric surgery, misconceptions continue to cloud public perception. Many still believe it’s a “shortcut to weight loss,” meant only for the extremely obese or those who lack discipline. In reality, bariatric surgery is a scientifically proven, lifesaving procedure for the right candidates.

“Bariatric surgery is not about cosmetic transformation, it’s about metabolic correction. It helps treat obesity-related diseases and gives patients a second chance at health,” says Dr. Pankaj Sharma, Director of Dept. Bariatric, Robotic, Laparoscopic and General Surgery from Fortis Hospital Shalimar Bagh and Founder of Shalya Clinic in Rohini New Delhi.

Bariatric surgery is not meant for everyone who wants to shed a few kilos. It is a medically indicated intervention for people who are severely obese and struggling with associated health issues.

According to global medical guidelines, candidates who qualify for bariatric surgery include: