Can bariatric surgery treat Type 2 diabetes? While the results will vary by person, bariatric surgery is typically a great way to improve or cure Type 2 diabetes. Here’s how it works and what you should know.
How it Works
Bariatric surgery can treat type 2 diabetes by managing the level of sugar in the blood. Obesity is a significant factor in developing type 2 diabetes. In fact, patients with obesity are 10 times more likely to develop the disease. However, with the help of bariatric surgery, patients can lose weight and see drastic improvement in their type 2 diabetes.
Who is Eligible for Weight Loss Surgery?
For bariatric surgery to treat diabetes, patients with a BMI of 35 or more are probably a candidate. In some cases, patients with a BMI of less than 35 may be eligible for bariatric surgery if their diabetes is difficult to control.
Benefits of Bariatric Surgery for Type 2 Diabetes 
The main benefit of bariatric surgery is weight loss. Most patients lose between 50-80% of their excess body weight during the first 18-24 months after surgery. However, while the weight loss takes time, the effects on blood sugar are immediate. Within days after surgery patients can reduce or eliminate diabetes medications.
Within two years of surgery, 85% of patients do not require medication because their diabetes is in remission. Weight loss reduces your chances of heart attacks, strokes, and heart and kidney failures.
However, diabetes isn’t the only condition improved by bariatric surgery. Patients experience improved blood pressure and cholesterol levels as well. This reduces the patient’s risk of heart attack and stroke. Most patients experience improvement in sleep apnea and fatty liver as well.
Best Bariatric Surgery for Type 2 Diabetes
Indeed, the benefits of weight loss surgery for type 2 diabetes are great. If you would like to learn more about the procedure, please contact Maryland Bariatrics today to schedule a consultation.
