Gastric Bypass surgery is a serious procedure that involves the dedication of the patient, physician and medical weight loss team. It’s not easy. As people who’ve struggled with weight issues their entire life know, there is no simple solution, but with patience, motivation and commitment to lifestyle changes Gastric Bypass surgery can lead to a longer and healthier life.
The Gastric Bypass procedure combines the restrictive aspect of the LAP-BAND® procedure with a malabsorptive component. By adding malabsorption, food is delayed in mixing with bile and pancreatic juices that aid in the absorption of nutrients. The result is an early sense of fullness, combined with a sense of satisfaction that reduces the desire to eat.
In the Gastric Bypass procedure stapling creates a small (15 to 20cc) stomach pouch. The remainder of the stomach is not removed, but is completely stapled shut and divided from the stomach pouch. The connection or outlet from this newly formed pouch empties directly into the lower portion of the intestine (jejunum), thus bypassing calorie absorption. This is done by dividing the small intestine just beyond the first part of the intestine (duodenum) and constructing a connection with the newly formed stomach pouch. The other end is connected into the side of the Roux limb of the intestine creating the "Y" shape. The length of either segment of the intestine can be increased to produce lower or higher levels of malabsorption.
Life after Gastric Bypass
Gastric Bypass patients typically lose 60 – 70% excess weight at eighteen months after surgery.
According to the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery, and the National Institutes of Health, the Gastric Bypass is safe and effective.
Quality of life drastically improves for our patients, with surgery resolving or improving 90% of patients’ diabetes, 96% of patient’s hypertension, and 73% of patient’s obstructive sleep apnea.
Serious health risks are significantly improved or cured. (Visit Health Benefits)
Weight loss after gastric bypass surgery improves fertility.
(See article)
Gastric Bypass Recovery & Follow-up
Surgery takes approximately two-to-three hours to perform.
On average, our patients leave the hospital two days after gastric bypass surgery.
Return to work varies from one week to three weeks depending on the type of work.
No heavy lifting (more than 10lbs) is allowed for four to six weeks after surgery.
You will have the support of our dedicated team of medical professionals who will work with you on nutrition, exercise, psychological, and physical therapy needs both before surgery and for the long-term.
Potential Concerns of Gastric Bypass
Bypassing a segment of small intestine results in poor absorption of iron, calcium and certain vitamins. To prevent nutritional deficiencies, patients will need to take daily vitamins including calcium, iron, multivitamins and protein supplements for the rest of their life.
A condition known as "dumping syndrome" can occur as the result of rapid emptying of stomach contents into the small intestine. This is sometimes triggered when too much sugar or large amounts of food are consumed. While generally not considered to be a serious risk to your health, the results can be unpleasant and can include nausea, weakness, sweating, faintness and, on occasion, diarrhea after eating. For most patients, this syndrome is short lived.
The surgery is irreversible.
Visit risks of surgery for a full description of the risks of gastric bypass surgery.
Achieving dramatic, sustainable weight loss is within your reach, and the team at New Jersey Bariatric Center can help! Our approach to patient care has resulted in zero mortality to date, zero leak rate, and a complication rate that is lower than the national average. These surgical results stand out as some of the best in the nation.
If you or someone you love is considering gastric bypass surgery please join us for one of our free educational seminars. To register, call (908) 481-1270 or click here.
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