Gastric bypass is a bariatric surgery that helps individuals with obesity achieve significant weight loss. In this procedure, a small pouch is created at the top of the stomach and directly connected to the small intestine, bypassing the rest of the stomach and part of the intestine.
This limits both the amount of food the patient can consume and the absorption of nutrients and calories, promoting weight loss.
Gastric bypass is not only recommended for people with severe obesity but also for those patients who, after undergoing a gastric sleeve, have regained weight. In these cases, gastric bypass is an effective option to once again achieve weight loss goals when other methods have failed.
How is Gastric Bypass Performed?
Gastric bypass surgery is performed under general anesthesia and, in most cases, is done laparoscopically, which minimizes incisions and speeds up recovery. The procedure lasts between 2 and 4 hours.
Creation of the gastric pouch
The surgeon reduces the size of the stomach by creating a small pouch at the top, capable of holding only a small amount of food.
Small intestine bypass
Next, the small intestine is cut and directly connected to the new gastric pouch, bypassing a large portion of the stomach and small intestine. This limits the absorption of calories and nutrients.
Completion
After reconnection, the incisions are closed, and postoperative monitoring is conducted. Most patients stay in the hospital for 2 to 3 days before returning home to continue their recovery.
Benefits of Gastric Bypass
The Gastric bypass offers several important benefits for both people seeking an initial solution for obesity and those who have previously had a gastric sleeve but regained weight:
Sustained weight loss
Most patients experience significant weight loss, 60% to 80% of their excess weight, during the first 18 months after surgery.
Improvement of obesity-related conditions
Gastric bypass can improve or resolve conditions such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea, and heart disease, among others.
Better appetite control
By altering the hormonal functioning of the stomach and intestines, this procedure reduces hunger and helps better control the amount of food consumed.
Effective option after gastric sleeve
For patients who have undergone a gastric sleeve but have regained weight, gastric bypass offers a new opportunity to achieve health and weight loss goals
Improved quality of life
Patients often experience improvements in their overall well-being, both physically and emotionally, as they feel healthier and more in control of their bodies.
When is a Gastric Bypass Necessary?
Gastric bypass may be the right option in several scenarios, both as a primary treatment for obesity or as an alternative after weight regain following a gastric sleeve:
Morbid obesity
It is recommended for patients with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 or more, or with a BMI of 35 or more if they have severe health conditions such as diabetes or hypertension.
Failure of other methods
If you have tried to lose weight with diets, exercise, or other medical approaches without sustainable results, gastric bypass can be an effective long-term solution.
Weight regain after gastric sleeve
If you have undergone a gastric sleeve and have started to regain weight, gastric bypass may be a suitable option to regain control of your weight loss.
Health problems related to obesity
If you suffer from severe conditions caused by obesity, such as heart disease, sleep apnea, or diabetes, gastric bypass can significantly improve your health and well-being
Commitment to a new lifestyle
The success of this procedure depends on the patient adopting lifestyle changes, such as following a balanced diet and regularly exercising. Surgery is an effective tool, but long-term commitment is key to maintaining the results.
Gastric bypass is a powerful option for those looking to lose weight effectively, either as a first surgical solution or as an intervention after weight regain following a gastric sleeve.
If you are facing obesity or have noticed weight gain after a previous bariatric surgery, gastric bypass may be the next step to improving your health and quality of life. Contact our experts at Bariatric Care Center to learn more and determine if you are a suitable candidate for this surgery.
