More Than Weight Loss: Dr. Lakshmikanth on How Bariatric Surgery Transforms Health and Life

Have you ever wondered if there’s a solution to obesity that goes beyond dieting and exercise, one that not only helps you lose weight but also transforms your overall health and life? Obesity is one of today’s most pressing health concerns, affecting over 650 million adults worldwide. Beyond the visible challenges, it brings serious health risks like diabetes, heart disease, sleep apnea, and joint pain, as well as emotional and social struggles. For many, diet plans and workouts often fail to deliver lasting results.

Bariatric surgery offers a proven and powerful alternative. In India, it shows high success rates, with most patients losing 60–80% of their excess weight within the first year. More importantly, this is often accompanied by remission or significant improvement in obesity-related health problems, and patients can maintain results long-term with lifestyle changes. Dr. Lakshmikanth Tippirneni, Sr. Consultant, Surgical Gastroenterology, Minimal Access & Bariatric Surgery at Star Hospital, Hyderabad, explains how bariatric surgery is not just about weight loss, but about reclaiming health, confidence, and quality of life.

Bariatric surgery involves modifying the digestive system to reduce food intake and alter hunger hormones, helping patients feel full sooner and burn calories more effectively. It’s recommended for individuals with severe obesity, especially those who have not succeeded with traditional weight loss methods. Common procedures include Sleeve Gastrectomy, which removes part of the stomach to reduce its size and hunger hormone production; Mini-Gastric Bypass, which is similar to gastric bypass but with a simpler connection process; and Gastric Bypass, which creates a small stomach pouch and connects it to the small intestine, limiting calorie absorption.

Several new treatment options are also being introduced to provide a wide range of weight loss solutions tailored to a patient’s age, habits, and lifestyle. Innovative approaches such as the Intragastric Balloon and weight loss injections are paving the way for new, effective pathways in obesity management.

Bariatric surgery works because it addresses the physical and hormonal causes of obesity. Patients often lose 50–70% of excess weight in the first year and are able to keep it off with the right lifestyle changes. This is far more sustainable than the temporary results often seen with diet and exercise alone.

Dr. Lakshmikanth Tippirneni, Sr. Consultant, Surgical Gastroenterology, Minimal Access & Bariatric Surgery of Star Hospital, Hyderabad

The health benefits extend well beyond weight loss. Many patients experience remission of type 2 diabetes, often reducing or eliminating the need for medication. Heart health improves with lower blood pressure and cholesterol. Sleep apnea is reduced or resolved, joint pain eases with less stress on the knees, hips, and spine, and overall mental well-being improves with higher self-esteem and confidence.

Life after bariatric surgery depends on maintaining healthy habits such as eating small, nutritious meals, staying active, attending follow-up check-ups, and addressing emotional well-being. With expert guidance, patients can enjoy an active, fulfilling life.

Bariatric surgery is much more than a weight loss procedure; it’s a medical breakthrough that helps people regain health, energy, and self-confidence. At Star Hospital, Hyderabad, patients receive comprehensive care from an expert team led by Dr. Lakshmikanth Tippirneni, ensuring safe surgery, personalized recovery, and lasting results. If you or a loved one is struggling with obesity, contact Star Hospital today to book your appointment with Dr. Lakshmikanth and take the first step towards a healthier, happier life.