Finding the Weight Loss Operation That Fits Your Health and Goals
Weight loss surgery is not a one-size-fits-all answer to obesity. Most patients with obesity and related conditions qualify for a bariatric procedure, but choosing the right one matters. At Matthew Lublin, MD, patients in Santa Monica, Encino and across the Los Angeles area meet one-on-one with Dr. Lublin to compare their options. Together you review your health history, weight loss goals and lifestyle, and choose the operation most likely to give you lasting results.
Request an AppointmentBariatric Surgery Options Offered by Dr. Lublin
Each bariatric procedure changes the digestive system differently. Some limit how much food the stomach can hold. Others also change how the body absorbs nutrients and responds to hunger hormones. Your decision is best made after a consultation with your primary physician and your bariatric surgeon. Read more about each option below:
Gastric Sleeve / Sleeve Gastrectomy
The sleeve gastrectomy removes a large portion of the stomach. The smaller stomach that remains is shaped like a narrow tube. Patients feel full sooner and often notice less hunger, because the part of the stomach that produces much of the hunger hormone ghrelin is removed. Learn more about the gastric sleeve.
Gastric Bypass
Gastric bypass creates a small stomach pouch and connects it directly to the small intestine, bypassing most of the stomach and the first part of the intestine. This limits food intake and reduces calorie absorption. It is often considered for patients with severe acid reflux or type 2 diabetes. Learn more about gastric bypass surgery.
Gastric Banding, Including Lap-Band
Gastric banding places an adjustable band around the upper stomach to create a small pouch. The band can be tightened or loosened in the office over time, and the procedure does not remove or reroute any part of the digestive tract. Learn more about gastric banding and the Lap-Band.
Robotic Bariatric Surgery
Many bariatric operations can be performed with the da Vinci robotic system. This approach gives the surgeon a magnified 3D view and precise instrument control through small incisions. Learn more about robotic bariatric surgery.
Health First, Weight Loss Second
Weight loss surgery is primarily meant to improve or resolve the diseases linked to severe obesity. These include type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea and joint pain. Weight loss, greater confidence and aesthetic changes are welcome results that follow. Every bariatric operation also carries some risk. Dr. Lublin explains those risks clearly, so you can weigh them against the expected benefits before you decide.
Choosing Your Surgical Team Carefully
Whichever procedure you choose, choose your surgical team with care. The surgeon’s experience, the facilities where they operate and the team that supports them all play a key role in long-term success. Dr. Lublin is a board-certified surgeon with extensive experience in laparoscopic and robotic procedures. He sees bariatric patients at offices in both Santa Monica and Encino.
Your own commitment matters just as much. Weight loss and disease improvement do not end when surgery is over. Surgery is the beginning of a journey that calls for lasting changes in how you eat, move and care for yourself. Our team supports you through every stage, from your first visit to your long-term follow-up.
Questions About Bariatric Procedures
Which bariatric procedure is best?
No single procedure is best for everyone. The right choice depends on your body mass index, existing health conditions such as diabetes or acid reflux, prior surgeries, eating habits and personal goals. Dr. Lublin reviews all of these with you during your consultation.
How do I know if I qualify for weight loss surgery?
Qualification is generally based on body mass index and the presence of obesity-related conditions. A consultation with Dr. Lublin at either the Santa Monica or Encino office is the best way to confirm whether you are a candidate.
What is the difference between the gastric sleeve and gastric bypass?
The gastric sleeve removes a large portion of the stomach and leaves a narrow tube. Gastric bypass creates a small stomach pouch and reroutes the small intestine. Bypass limits both food intake and calorie absorption, while the sleeve works mainly by restriction and reduced hunger.
Is gastric banding reversible?
Yes. A gastric band does not remove or reroute any part of the digestive tract, so it can be removed if needed. The band can also be adjusted in the office to change how much restriction it provides.
Can bariatric surgery be done robotically?
Many bariatric procedures can be performed with the da Vinci robotic system. It lets the surgeon work through small incisions with magnified 3D vision and precise instrument control.
What are the risks of bariatric surgery?
As with any operation, bariatric surgery carries risks such as bleeding, infection, leaks and nutritional deficiencies. The specific risks vary by procedure. Dr. Lublin discusses them in detail so you can make an informed decision.
What happens after weight loss surgery?
Surgery is the beginning of a long-term journey. Patients follow a staged diet, take recommended supplements, increase physical activity and attend regular follow-up visits to maintain their weight loss and health improvements.