The gastric bypass, or Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass, is the oldest and most commonly performed bariatric surgery procedure. It consists of cutting and stapling the stomach to create a smaller pouch while also re-routing the intestines. The gastric bypass weight loss surgery helps patients lose weight by restricting the amount of food a patient can consume, and by creating a malabsorptive effect. We also believe this procedure will recalibrate the body's metabolic set point. The gastric bypass is a reversible procedure and can be revised to another procedure if needed.
Bariatric Procedure
Gastric Bypass
About
Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass
Improvement or resolution of serious medical conditions
Improvement in overall health and quality of life
Long term cost savings as a result of reduced medical care
How Its Done
During the operation, the surgeon will divide the stomach into two parts—the small gastric pouch at the top and the larger disconnected section at the bottom. The small intestine is then divided a few feet from the stomach and brought up to meet the small gastric pouch.
The new, smaller stomach is now about the size of an egg. As a result, patients will feel full faster, thereby eating less. Also, when food bypasses the stomach, this causes fewer calories and nutrients to be absorbed, creating a malabsorptive effect. Additionally, we believe that by diverting food away from the upper part of the intestines (duodenum) will recalibrate the body's metabolism through hormonal mechanisms.
The gastric bypass weight loss surgery takes about 1 hour to perform, and patients can expect to stay at the hospital for 24 to 48 hours after surgery. Depending on the type of work performed, patients will be able to return to work within 2 to 4 weeks from surgery.
Results that change lives.
Average Weight Loss
70%- 75% of excess weight loss
Diabetes Resolution
80+% patients cured of diabetes
Reduction in Medication Use
60+% free from medication
Quality of Life
100% Improvement
Potential Risks
Before considering the gastric bypass, it is important to be familiar with the potential risks of bariatric procedures. Risks vary based on the health of the patient.
- Minor Complications
- Major Complications
Minor Complications
UNCOMMON AND CAN BE MANAGED FAIRLY EASILY
- Minor wound or skin infection
- Excess / loose skin
- Vomiting or nausea
- Acid reflux (heartburn)
- Changes in bowel habits like constipation, diarrhea, bloating, cramping, or gas
- Gastric ulcer or anastomotic stricture
- Development of gallstones or gallbladder disease
- Nutritional deficiencies as a result of food bypassing the stomach
- Dumping syndrome when high sugar foods move too fast from the stomach to the small intestine
Major Complications
COMPLICATIONS COULD RESULT IN RE-OPERATION
- Internal Bleeding
- Intestinal obstruction
- Blood clots in the legs or lungs
- Internal hernia
- Perforation of stomach/intestine or leakage
Gastric Bypass FAQs
Should I get the gastric bypass or the gastric sleeve?
The gastric bypass is more invasive than the gastric sleeve, yet it yields greater weight loss results. Your bariatric surgeon and care team will work with you to find the best procedure based on your health history and your weight loss goals.
How much weight will I lose after gastric bypass surgery?
Research shows that patients will lose between 70 and 75% of their excess weight. Patients who achieve greater success after gastric bypass surgery are those individuals who follow their surgeon and dietitians' instructions and incorporate exercise into their daily activities.
How long after gastric bypass surgery can I become pregnant?
It is often recommended to allow at least 12 to 18 months to sufficiently recover from surgery and let your hormones become balanced before becoming pregnant. Women often become much more fertile once they have lost weight and are closer to their ideal weight. Therefore, it is important to use a form of birth control to prevent pregnancy too soon after bariatric surgery.
Other Bariatric Procedures
