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Bariatric surgery is a general term for several different weight-loss procedures. The procedures use one or both of two approaches to help patients lose weight.

During a restrictive procedure, the surgeon creates a small stomach pouch that limits the amount of food that can be eaten. The smaller stomach pouch helps produce a feeling of satisfaction with less food.

During a malabsorptive procedure, the surgeon reroutes the small intestine so that food skips a portion. Avoiding the small intestine prevents calories and nutrients from being absorbed through it.

For both restrictive and malabsorptive procedures, New Life Weight Loss Center utilizes advanced laparoscopic surgical techniques. Laparoscopic surgery – also called minimally invasive surgery – allows the surgeon to perform the same procedure with several small incisions, whereas traditional, open surgery involves the surgeon creating a long incision to open the abdomen. A bariatric procedure typically involves five incisions, each of which are about a quarter to a half inch long.

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