Bariatric Surgery

What is Bariatric Surgery?

Bariatric surgery involves surgical techniques that help patients lose weight by altering the anatomy of the stomach or small intestine. The main goal is to reduce stomach volume or limit calorie absorption, which contributes to weight loss. As a result, patients feel full faster, eat less, and gradually lose excess body weight.

Indications for Bariatric Surgery

Bariatric surgery is recommended in the following cases:

• Body Mass Index (BMI) over 40 kg/m²

• BMI from 35 kg/m² in the presence of comorbidities (type 2 diabetes, hypertension, joint diseases, sleep apnea, etc.)

• Lack of effect from long-term conservative therapy (diet, physical activity, medications)

Surgery is only prescribed after a comprehensive examination and consultation with specialized physicians.

Contraindications for Bariatric Surgery

Surgical treatment of obesity is not performed in the following conditions:

• Severe mental disorders

• Uncontrolled endocrine diseases

• Severe chronic diseases of the heart, kidneys, or liver

• Active cancer

• Alcohol or drug addiction

Contraindications are determined individually after medical evaluation.

Types of Bariatric Procedures

Modern bariatric surgery offers several effective weight loss methods:

• Sleeve gastrectomy – removal of part of the stomach, shaping it into a narrow tube

• Gastric bypass – creation of a bypass route for food to reduce stomach volume and calorie absorption

• Biliopancreatic diversion – a combined surgery with maximum reduction in nutrient absorption

• Gastroplasty – placement of special sutures to reduce stomach size without removing any part

The choice of procedure depends on the patient’s condition, degree of obesity, and medical recommendations.

Stages of Bariatric Surgery

The treatment process includes several stages:

1. Initial consultation with a bariatric surgeon

2. Comprehensive medical examination

3. Preparation and agreement on the surgical plan

4. Surgical intervention

5. Hospital stay (usually 3–5 days)

6. Recovery and adherence to lifestyle recommendations

The entire treatment is conducted under medical supervision with continuous progress assessment. 

Preparation for Bariatric Surgery

Before the surgery, the patient undergoes the following preparation steps:

• Laboratory testing

• Consultations with a therapist, endocrinologist, cardiologist, and anesthesiologist

• Compliance with a special diet

• Psychological support and preparation for behavioral changes

Proper preparation reduces the risk of complications and contributes to successful recovery.

Rehabilitation and Recovery After Surgery

Following bariatric surgery, it is important to follow rehabilitation guidelines:

• Gradual transition from liquid to solid foods

• Monitoring calorie intake and portion sizes

• Physical activity to maintain muscle mass and boost metabolism

• Regular medical checkups and laboratory tests

Recovery usually takes several months. Patients receive ongoing support from a nutritionist and psychologist to develop new healthy habits.

Results of Bariatric Surgery

Bariatric surgery enables stable weight loss—on average, 50–70% of excess body weight within the first year. Additional positive effects include:

• Normalization of blood pressure

• Decrease in blood sugar levels

• Improvement in joint health

• Increased endurance and overall quality of life

Results depend on the type of surgery, initial weight, and adherence to post-treatment recommendations.

Bariatric Surgery in Russia

Bariatric surgery in Russia is available in major medical centers and specialized clinics. Doctors use advanced surgical techniques, high-quality equipment, and an individualized approach to each patient.

In Russia, bariatric procedures are performed using laparoscopic technologies, which significantly shorten hospital stays and speed up recovery. Major clinical centers perform more than 500 such surgeries annually, confirming the high level of expertise among Russian specialists.

The MARUS platform helps international patients receive high-quality obesity treatment in Russia. We select the best clinics, arrange consultations with experienced bariatric surgeons, and support the patient at every stage—from diagnosis to full recovery. With MARUS, treatment in Russia becomes accessible and comfortable, allowing the patient to focus on their health without organizational stress.