Gastric bypass is a type of weight-loss surgery that involves creating a small pouch from the stomach and connecting the newly created pouch directly to the small intestine.
Gastric bypass surgery, or Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, greatly differs from the gastric banding bariatric surgeries, because the operation involves making changes to your digestive system for the purpose of reducing the absorption of calories, as well as nutrients.
Because of these changes to the digestive system, gastric bypass often leads to the highest amount of weight loss of all the bariatric surgeries we perform. For the same reasons, it is also a riskier form of bariatric surgery, because it is more invasive than a procedure like the sleeve gastrectomy.
Gastric bypass surgery is one of the top options for those seeking weight loss surgery. At West Medical, we’re dedicated to guiding you through the entirety of your gastric bypass treatment process. Below, you’ll find some valuable information that may address some of your questions and concerns. You can also schedule a free consultation with one of our bariatric surgeons to discuss your weight loss options.
Gastric bypass surgery involves the creation of a smaller stomach pouch that is separate from the rest of the stomach. This method decreases stomach capacity and, in turn, causes patients to feel fuller at a faster pace. The larger part of the stomach doesn’t hold any food, but still maintains all of its normal blood vessels.
Gastric bypass surgery includes stapling the stomach as well as the rerouting of the intestinal tract. These major changes to the digestive system change the way nutrients are absorbed, as well as limit the amount of food you eat before feeling full. This method is preferable for some patients because not only does it reduce the size of food portions you can eat, but also reduces the amount of calories and nutrients your body absorbs.
Gastric bypass was one of the first bariatric surgery procedures performed, and initially many of these procedures were performed “open” meaning with a large incision. Medical developments have given surgeons the ability to perform gastric bypass laparoscopically today, meaning with very small incisions. Gastric bypass has decades of study data, and can often provide faster weight loss than other methods, such as the Lap-Band or gastric sleeve. Gastric bypass has shown particularly beneficial results for patients with type 2 diabetes.
At West Medical we prioritize your safety, comfort, and health. Your West Medical gastric bypass surgeon will explain your options clearly so you can make an informed, empowered decision if you think the bypass is a good choice.
The gastric bypass operation has a slightly higher level of risk than the gastric band or gastric sleeve. This is because it is a more invasive operation, but also leads to the highest amount of weight loss on average. The risks of gastric bypass include:
The reduction in caloric absorption is greater than other bariatric surgeries, but can result in nutrition deficiency.
Ineffective healing of the areas that were stapled and sealed can result in infection, leakage, and the formation of abscesses.
When consuming desserts and starchy foods, dumping syndrome has a high chance of occurring.
Nausea and subsequent vomiting can take place, which, in turn, may cause strictures, requiring additional surgery.
Gastric bypass surgery has been linked to hair loss in some patients.
When you meet with a gastric bypass surgeon at West Medical, we will explain the risks and benefits of the procedure in detail. When you make a decision about your health, you are taking an important step. That step should be taken with all the education needed to feel as though you’re in control of your journey. We are here to guide and support you every step of the way.
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4640 Lincoln Blvd.
Suite 718B
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