The idea of weight loss surgery with minimal scarring and a quicker recovery can feel like a welcome relief. Single-incision surgery offers just that for many people, but it’s natural to wonder if it’s the right path for you. Making an informed decision is the first step toward a successful and comfortable health journey.
At Atlanta Bariatrics, we believe in empowering you with clear information and personalized care. Our experienced team specializes in minimally invasive bariatric surgery and is here to help you understand all your options. Schedule a consultation with us today to talk through your goals and find a solution that fits your life.
Here are five important things to consider before choosing single-incision surgery:
1. Your BMI and Overall Health
Your body mass index (BMI) and general health are two of the most significant factors in determining if you are a good candidate for single-incision surgery. This procedure is often best suited for individuals with a lower BMI. A lower BMI can mean there is less abdominal tissue for the surgeon to work through, making it easier to perform the surgery through a single, small incision.
Your overall health profile also plays a vital role.Your surgeon will look at your complete medical history, including any conditions like heart disease, lung problems, or diabetes. It’s also important for them to know about any previous surgeries you’ve had, especially in the abdominal area. Past procedures can sometimes create scar tissue, which might make a single-incision approach more complex. A thorough health screening helps your care team get a full picture of your health, allowing them to recommend the safest and most effective surgical option for you.
2. The Type of Bariatric Procedure You're Considering
Not all weight loss surgeries can be performed through a single incision. This technique is most commonly used for procedures like the sleeve gastrectomy and adjustable gastric banding. These surgeries are generally less complex than others, making them well-suited for the single-port approach.
For example, a sleeve gastrectomy involves removing a portion of the stomach to create a smaller, sleeve-shaped pouch, which restricts the amount of food you can eat. More complex surgeries, such as gastric bypass, typically require more room for the surgeon to work. During your consultation, your surgeon will discuss which type of bariatric surgery aligns with your weight loss goals and whether that procedure can be done with the single-incision method.
3. The Importance of Consulting an Experienced Surgeon
The expertise of your bariatric surgeon is one of the most important factors in your surgical journey, especially when considering a specialized procedure like single-incision bariatric surgery.
At Atlanta Bariatrics, Dr. Christopher J. Hart and Dr. William H. Johnson both bring years of dedicated bariatric experience, board certification, and a patient-centered approach to every procedure.
Dr. Hart, a native of Atlanta and Chief of Staff at Emory Johns Creek Hospital, has been practicing bariatric surgery for more than 15 years. He completed his residency at the Mayo Clinic, served as Chief Resident, and has been recognized as one of America’s Top Surgeons.
Dr. Johnson, who joined Atlanta Bariatrics in 2006, has performed thousands of bariatric procedures. His background includes a fellowship in minimally invasive surgery at Duke University and a track record as Medical Director at both Atlanta General and Bariatric Surgery Center and Northside Forsyth Hospital.
Both surgeons are not only board-certified but also Fellows of the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (FASMBS). Their combined expertise means you benefit from the most current, evidence-based strategies and individualized care.
When you schedule a consultation with Dr. Hart or Dr. Johnson, know that you are welcome to ask questions about their experience and surgical outcomes. Their approach is transparent and compassionate, and they’ll talk openly about the benefits and limitations of single-incision surgery for your unique health profile. This commitment to honest, thorough evaluation helps build the trusting relationship that’s so important in your bariatric journey.
4. Understanding the Potential Benefits and Risks
Like any medical procedure, single-incision surgery comes with its own set of benefits and potential risks. It’s important to weigh both sides carefully so you can have realistic expectations.
The benefits are often very appealing to patients:
- Minimal Scarring: The single incision is usually hidden in the navel, so the resulting scar is often barely visible.
- Less Pain: With only one incision site, many people experience less discomfort after surgery.
- Faster Recovery: A less invasive approach can mean a shorter hospital stay and a quicker return to your daily activities.
- Lower Risk of Some Complications: Fewer incisions may reduce the risk of wound infections or hernias at the incision sites.
It’s also important to be aware of the potential risks:
- Technical Challenges: The procedure can be more technically demanding for the surgeon, which is why experience is so important.
- Longer Operating Time: In some cases, operating through one port can take slightly longer than multi-port laparoscopy.
- Potential for Conversion: Rarely, a surgeon may need to make additional incisions or switch to a traditional laparoscopic approach during the operation for safety reasons.
Your surgeon will discuss these points with you in detail, helping you understand how they apply to your specific situation.
5. How to Prepare for the Procedure
Once you and your surgeon decide that single-incision surgery is the right choice, the preparation process begins. This phase is key to setting you up for a smooth procedure and recovery. Your pre-operative plan will be tailored to you, but it generally includes a few key steps.
You will have pre-surgical consultations where your team will perform medical tests, like blood work or imaging scans, to get a final look at your health. This is also a great time to ask any last-minute questions.
You may also meet with one of our registered dietitians, who will guide you through a pre-operative diet. This diet's main purpose is to help shrink the liver, which makes the surgical area safer and easier to access. You’ll also be encouraged to make positive lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking or starting a light exercise routine, if you haven’t already. These changes can improve your body’s ability to heal and contribute to your long-term success.
Begin Your Journey with Confidence at Atlanta Bariatrics
Deciding if single-incision bariatric surgery is right for you involves considering your health, your goals, and the expertise of your surgical team. By thinking through these five key areas, you can make a choice that feels right and helps you move forward on your path to better health. The compassionate team at Atlanta Bariatrics is here to support you with expert guidance every step of the way.
Are you ready to explore your options for minimally invasive weight loss surgery?Schedule a consultation with Atlanta Bariatrics, and let’s take the next step together.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for single-incision bariatric surgery?
Generally, this approach is best suited for patients with a lower BMI and no significant history of abdominal surgeries. Your full medical history and weight loss goals will be thoughtfully reviewed during your consultation with Dr. Hart or Dr. Johnson to determine if single-incision surgery is right for you.
What is the recovery time for single-incision surgery?
Most patients are able to return to normal activities after one week, although everyone’s healing process is unique. Because there is only one small incision, discomfort is often less, and hospital stays are typically shorter compared to traditional procedures.
What are some benefits of single-incision bariatric surgery?
This minimally invasive technique offers several advantages, including minimal scarring (often hidden within the navel), less postoperative pain, faster recovery, and potentially a reduced risk of complications at incision sites.
Can all bariatric procedures be performed using a single incision?
Not every type of bariatric surgery is suitable for this method. Sleeve gastrectomy and gastric banding are among the most common procedures performed this way. Your surgeon can discuss which options are a fit for your unique needs.
Will I still have support after my surgery?
Absolutely! Atlanta Bariatrics provides ongoing care with regular follow-up visits, dietary guidance, and personalized support to help you adjust and stay on track throughout your journey.
