Gastric Bypass

If you are considering a gastric bypass, it is important to have all the facts before making your decision. Here at our medical center, we offer gastric bypass procedures that can help you lose weight and improve your health. We want you to be as informed as possible about this life-changing surgery, so here are some things to keep in mind.

How does it work?

During gastric bypass surgery, the surgeon will create a small pouch at the top of your stomach. This pouch will be connected to a section of your small intestine, bypassing the rest of your stomach and most of your intestine. This allows you to eat less because you feel full more quickly, and it also reduces the amount of calories and nutrients your body absorbs.

Gastric bypass surgery is a major operation that requires a hospital stay of several days. You will likely need to take some time off from work or other activities to recover. After surgery, you will need to make significant changes to your diet and lifestyle. You will need to eat smaller meals more often and avoid high-fat, high-sugar foods. You will also need to exercise regularly.

Suitable candidates

Gastric bypass surgery is not for everyone. You may be a good candidate for surgery if you are morbidly obese, meaning your body mass index (BMI) is 40 or higher, or if your BMI is 35 or higher and you have other serious health conditions related to your weight, such as diabetes or sleep apnea. If you have tried other methods of weight loss, such as diet and exercise, and have not been successful, gastric bypass surgery may be an option for you.

Things to consider

Before having gastric bypass surgery, you will need to meet with our surgeon and other healthcare professionals to discuss the risks and benefits of the procedure. You will also need to have a psychological evaluation to ensure you are prepared for the changes you will need to make after surgery. gastric bypass surgery is a serious decision that should not be made lightly.

Pros and cons

As with any surgery, there are risks associated with gastric bypass surgery. These include bleeding, infection, and blood clots. You may also experience stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation. gastric bypass surgery can also cause nutritional deficiencies and may result in dumping syndrome, a condition where food moves too quickly from your stomach to your intestine.

There are also potential benefits to gastric bypass surgery. In addition to weight loss, the surgery can also improve or resolve other health conditions related to obesity, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and sleep apnea. Gastric bypass surgery can also improve your quality of life by making it easier to move around and do everyday activities.

Are there any age limits?

There are no age limits for gastric bypass surgery, but the surgery is usually only recommended for people who are 18 years or older.

How long does it take?

Gastric bypass surgery usually takes about two hours.

Is it painful?

You will be given general anesthesia for the surgery, so you will not feel any pain. You may experience some discomfort after the surgery, but this can be managed with pain medication.

Length of hospital stay

You will usually stay in the hospital for three to five days after gastric bypass surgery.

When can I start exercising?

You should start slowly with gentle exercises, such as walking, soon after you leave the hospital. You can then gradually increase your activity level as you feel able.

Recovery

During the first few weeks after gastric bypass surgery, you will need to take it easy as your body adjusts to the changes. You will likely feel tired and may have some pain and swelling in your abdomen. It is important to follow your surgeon’s instructions during your recovery to avoid complications.

You will also need to make significant changes to your diet. You will need to eat smaller meals more often and avoid high-fat, high-sugar foods. You will also need to drink plenty of fluids and get enough protein.

What are the success rates?

Gastric bypass surgery is generally successful in helping people lose weight and improve their health. Most people who have the surgery are able to lose about 60% of their excess body weight.

Results

Most people who have gastric bypass surgery are able to lose a significant amount of weight. In addition, the surgery can also improve or resolve other health conditions related to obesity, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and sleep apnea. Gastric bypass surgery can also improve your quality of life by making it easier to move around and do everyday activities.

Book a consultation

If you are considering gastric bypass surgery, we offer a free consultation with our surgeon. During the consultation, our surgeon will discuss your weight loss goals and health history. They will also perform a physical examination and order some tests. If gastric bypass surgery is right for you, our surgeon will develop a treatment plan tailored to your needs.