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If the history of bariatric surgery were a movie, it'd be an incredible tale of medical breakthroughs, perseverance against obesity, and a global quest for better health. If you’re unsure about bariatric surgery or medical weight loss methods in general, knowing the history behind the industry may provide some helpful context for where we are now.
From humble beginnings to cutting-edge techniques, this field has come a long way over the decades. Among the trailblazers, NYBG and Dr. Shawn Garber stand out for their pivotal roles in advancing the practice and transforming patient outcomes.
The Early Years: Laying the Foundation
Let's rewind to the 1950s, when bariatric surgery took its early steps. Dr. Richard L. Varco, and then Dr. A.J. Kremen, performed the pioneering jejuno-ileal bypass, aiming to reduce nutrient absorption by bypassing parts of the small intestine. It was a bold move, but one that came with many complications for the patient and spurred the need for more effective methods.
The 1960s and 70s: Development of Gastric Bypass
Fast forward to the 1960s and 70s, where surgeons began honing their craft with gastric bypass surgery. This procedure involved creating a smaller stomach pouch connected directly to the small intestine, helping to curb food intake and improve health for those battling severe obesity. This laid the groundwork for the Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, a cornerstone of modern bariatric surgery.
The 1980s: Laparoscopic Revolution
The 1980s ushered in a game-changing era with laparoscopic techniques. These minimally invasive procedures use tiny incisions and cameras for precision, cutting down recovery times and complications. Innovations like the adjustable gastric band offered a less invasive option for weight loss, providing flexibility in treatment plans.
The 1990s: New Procedures and Refinements
By the 1990s, bariatric surgery hit its stride, with the laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass becoming the gold standard. The emergence of sleeve gastrectomy, removing a large part of the stomach to limit food intake and alter hunger hormones, further expanded treatment options. The duodenal switch combined elements of sleeve gastrectomy and gastric bypass, offering yet another effective route for severe obesity.
Innovations like the Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG) is a cutting-edge and minimally invasive weight-loss procedure. Endoscopic procedures such as ESG use no incisions for increased comfort by going through the mouth.
Present Day: The Rise of Weight Loss Medications
Recently, new players have emerged in the field of weight management: oral and injectable weight loss medications. These medications have shown great promise in aiding weight loss. Medications like Wegovy, Ozempic, and Saxenda can be used as standalone weight loss treatments, but can also be part of a comprehensive post-surgical weight maintenance plan, helping to sustain long-term weight loss and improve metabolic health.
Today, bariatric surgery remains the most durable treatment for severe obesity and is considered as one of the best tools available to fight obesity – being safer and more effective than ever before.
While oral and injectable weight-loss medications can be an effective short-term strategy, the long-term success and safety are still being researched and are unknown.
The Impact of New York Bariatric Group and Dr. Shawn Garber
With over two decades of success, NYBG is a leader in the bariatric surgical field, known for cutting-edge techniques and comprehensive care. Founded by renowned bariatric surgeon, Dr. Shawn Garber, NYBG has significantly impacted bariatric surgery through innovative approaches and dedication to patient care.
Dr. Garber's contributions include the development and refinement of minimally invasive procedures, such as single-incision laparoscopic surgery (SILS) and robotic-assisted bariatric surgery. These advancements have reduced recovery times, minimized complications, and improved overall outcomes for patients.
NYBG offers patients benefits compared to other weight-loss programs and practices, such as a one-day surgical clearance workup that helps them get weight-loss surgery faster and same day surgery at their Ambulatory Surgical Centers.
NYBG doesn't just stop at surgery—they've set a new standard with a holistic approach to medically supervised weight loss. Their care encompasses nutrition counseling, psychological support, and medical guidance tailored to each patient's needs. Understanding that obesity is a complex interplay of genetics, environment, and lifestyle, NYBG focuses on personalized treatment plans for lasting health outcomes.
New York Bariatric Group: The Weight Loss Leader
NYBG is the leader in comprehensive weight-loss solutions. We are a one-stop shop, offering long-term weight loss surgery as well as medically supervised weight loss with medications and injectables. There is no one-size-fits-all solution to losing weight. At NYBG, we work with you to customize a weight-loss program that will work best for you.
Weight-loss drugs and injectables have been shown to be an effective short-term strategy, but the long-term effects and safety is still unknown. With our Medical Weight Loss Program the ongoing supervision allows doctors to make necessary adjustments to a patient’s treatment plan based on their progress and changes to their health.
Weight-loss surgery is the only proven long-term weight-loss solution. With decades of research, patients have seen sustainable weight loss. We offer multiple weight loss surgery procedures and our doctors will work with you to find the right option.
Our practice is the best around:
- Over 30 surgeons who are leaders in bariatrics, plastic surgery, and medical weight loss.
- 42,000 successful procedures performed with more every day
- The #1 gastric balloon practice by volume – most balloons placed in the United States
- Access to online seminars, support groups, cooking demos, and Q-and-A sessions
- 100s of videos for patients explaining procedures, answering common questions, and showcasing previous patients
- Multiple offices located in three states; NY, NJ, CT
- Offering in-person and virtual consultations
- Since 2000, we boast over 23 years of success!
All of our hospitals are Metabolic Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP) accredited facilities, which is a prestigious designation bestowed upon only the top-quality bariatric programs.
Stop waiting; start achieving better health today. Together, we’ve got this!
