How long has weight loss surgery been around?

Weight loss surgery, also known as bariatric surgery, has been around for over a century. The first recorded weight loss surgery was performed in 1882 by German surgeon Ernst Sonnenburg. Sonnenburg performed a gastrectomy, which is a surgical procedure that removes a portion of the stomach. In the early 20th century, other weight loss surgeries were developed, such as the jejunoileal bypass and the vertical banded gastroplasty. These surgeries were effective at helping people lose weight, but they were also associated with a high risk of complications.

In the 1990s, a new type of weight loss surgery was developed called the laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB). LAGB is a minimally invasive procedure that involves placing an adjustable band around the upper part of the stomach. This band can be tightened or loosened to restrict the amount of food that can be eaten. LAGB was a major breakthrough in weight loss surgery, as it was associated with a lower risk of complications than previous surgeries.

In recent years, other new types of weight loss surgeries have been developed, such as the Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) and the sleeve gastrectomy (SG). RYGB is a surgical procedure that involves creating a small pouch in the stomach and connecting it directly to the small intestine. SG is a surgical procedure that involves removing a large portion of the stomach. These surgeries are both effective at helping people lose weight and they are associated with a lower risk of complications than previous surgeries.

Weight loss surgery is a major decision that should not be taken lightly. However, for people who are struggling with obesity, weight loss surgery can offer a way to improve their quality of life.