Weight-loss surgery is an option for individuals who have not found success with diet and exercise alone. Gastric bypass surgery is one type of bariatric procedure that can help achieve significant weight loss, and it works by altering the digestive system. Understanding the details of this surgery helps individuals determine if it is a suitable option for their health goals. Here is more information on gastric bypass surgery, how it works, and what the process involves:
What Is Gastric Bypass Surgery?
Gastric bypass surgery is a type of bariatric surgery designed to help individuals with obesity lose weight. The procedure changes how the stomach and small intestine handle food, leading to reduced calorie absorption and a feeling of fullness with smaller meal portions. This surgery is typically recommended for individuals with a body mass index (BMI) of 35 or higher. A thorough medical evaluation is necessary to determine if a person is a candidate for the procedure, and this assessment assesses multiple aspects of an individual’s health.
How Does It Work?
The gastric bypass procedure works through a combination of restriction and malabsorption. The surgeon first creates a small stomach pouch that restricts how much you can eat at once. This pouch is much smaller than the original stomach, so you feel full much more quickly.
The small intestine is then rerouted to connect directly to this new, smaller stomach pouch. Food bypasses the rest of the stomach and the upper part of the small intestine, reducing the number of calories and nutrients your body absorbs. This dual mechanism contributes to substantial and sustained weight loss for many patients.
What Are the Benefits?
This surgery can lead to significant long-term weight loss. Patients may lose a substantial portion of their excess body weight within the first two years after the procedure, and this weight loss helps improve mobility and overall quality of life. The procedure may also lead to the improvement or resolution of many obesity-related health conditions. These conditions include type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, and high cholesterol.
What Are Other Weight Loss Procedures?
Several other bariatric procedures are available, each with its own mechanism and profile. The choice of surgery depends on a patient’s specific health situation and goals, so a discussion with a surgeon is necessary.
- Lap-band®: This procedure involves placing an adjustable silicone band around the upper part of the stomach to create a small pouch. The band can be adjusted to control the opening size, helping regulate food intake.
- Sleeve Gastrectomy: In this surgery, a large portion of the stomach is removed, leaving a smaller, banana-shaped “sleeve.” This reduces the stomach’s capacity and decreases ghrelin production, a hormone that stimulates hunger.
- Duodenal Switch: This complex procedure combines elements of a sleeve gastrectomy with a significant intestinal bypass.
Seek Weight Loss Today
Gastric bypass surgery is a procedure that offers a path to weight loss and improved health for individuals with obesity. It combines restrictive and malabsorptive elements to create lasting change, and the process involves careful preparation and postoperative care. If you are evaluating weight-loss surgery, consult with a qualified bariatric surgeon. They can assess your health needs and help you determine the most appropriate course of action for your weight loss.
