What is bariatric surgery?
Bariatric (weight-loss) surgery helps people with severe obesity achieve substantial, sustained weight loss when diet and exercise alone have not worked. It also has a powerful metabolic effect, frequently improving or resolving type-2 diabetes, high blood pressure and sleep apnoea.
The common procedures — laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy and gastric bypass — are performed by keyhole surgery. Surgery is one part of a journey that includes nutrition, exercise and long-term follow-up. Careful assessment decides who will benefit and which procedure is right.
Symptoms & when surgery is needed
How it is diagnosed
- Detailed medical, dietary and weight history with BMI assessment
- Blood tests for metabolic, hormonal and nutritional status
- Assessment of diabetes, blood pressure and sleep apnoea
- Multidisciplinary evaluation (nutrition, anaesthesia, and others as needed)
Treatment options
Sleeve gastrectomy
The stomach is reshaped into a slim tube, reducing hunger and portion size — a common, effective choice.
Gastric bypass
Creates a small pouch and reroutes the intestine, powerful for weight loss and diabetes control.
Mini gastric bypass
A simpler bypass variant with strong metabolic results in selected patients.
Revisional bariatric surgery
Corrects or converts previous weight-loss procedures when needed.
The procedure, step by step
- 1
Evaluation
A multidisciplinary work-up confirms suitability and the best procedure.
- 2
Preparation
A pre-surgery diet and medical optimisation reduce risk and prepare the liver.
- 3
Keyhole surgery
The chosen procedure is performed laparoscopically under general anaesthesia.
- 4
Early recovery
A staged liquid-to-soft diet begins under guidance; most stay 2–3 days.
- 5
Long-term follow-up
Ongoing nutrition, supplements and reviews support lasting results.
Recovery timeline
2–3 days
Hospital stay with early mobilisation and a liquid diet.
1–2 weeks
Return to desk work; progressing through the staged diet.
4–6 weeks
Resume normal activity and light exercise.
6–12 months
Most weight loss occurs; regular follow-up continues lifelong.
Risks & considerations
- General surgical and anaesthetic risks
- Nutritional deficiencies needing lifelong supplements
- Leak or bleeding — uncommon, and managed promptly
- The need for permanent dietary and lifestyle change
Cost in Hyderabad
| Procedure | Indicative range |
|---|---|
| Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy | ₹2,50,000 – ₹4,00,000 |
| Gastric bypass | ₹3,00,000 – ₹4,75,000 |
| Mini gastric bypass | ₹2,75,000 – ₹4,25,000 |
| Revisional bariatric surgeryDepends on prior surgery | On assessment |
These are indicative ranges for Hyderabad and vary with the grade or complexity of the condition, the technique chosen, implants used, room category and insurance. They are not a quotation. Please contact the clinic for a personalised estimate after consultation.
Why choose Dr. Satish Reddy
Frequently asked questions
For people of Asian-Indian origin, surgery is generally considered at a BMI above 37.5, or above 32.5 with conditions like type-2 diabetes or hypertension, after supervised attempts at weight loss. A full assessment confirms eligibility and the right procedure.
Bariatric (metabolic) surgery often leads to significant improvement or remission of type-2 diabetes, sometimes within days — especially gastric bypass. Results depend on the duration of diabetes and individual factors, and follow-up remains important.
Long-term results are excellent when the surgery is paired with lasting lifestyle change. Following the nutrition plan, staying active and attending follow-up are what keep the weight off.
Both are effective. The sleeve is simpler and very popular; bypass tends to be more powerful for diabetes and reflux. The right choice depends on your health profile, which Dr. Reddy discusses in detail.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Y. Satish Reddy
MS, PDF (Surgical Gastroenterology) · Updated 1 September 2026