Gastric Bypass surgery, also known as the Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass procedure, creates a small stomach “pouch” completely divided from the remainder of the stomach. The small intestine is then divided and one end brought up and connected to the small stomach pouch. The intestine is reconnected further downstream. This procedure leads to weight loss mostly by reducing the size of the stomach and the amount of food consumed, and by bypassing some of the small intestine, which reduces the amount of food the body will absorb.

This procedure is performed laparoscopically, avoiding a large incision in the abdomen; however, an abdominal incision is sometimes necessary based on weight, body shape, previous surgery or other factors.

This procedure is considered the gold standard for weight loss surgery and has been extensively used since 1967, the longest of any weight loss procedures.

Expected Weight Loss from Gastric Bypass Surgery is 65-80% of your excess weight

Patients generally lose between 100 and 180 pounds after a Gastric Bypass Surgery proceedure. Most of the weight is lost during the first 12-18 months, although some additional weight can be lost for up to two years. The exact amount of weight lost depends on your pre-operative body mass index, compliance with dietary instruction and increasing your activity level. Commitment to proper food choices and increased activity is essential to maximizing and maintaining your weight loss in the long-term. Failure to make these commitments can lead to weight regain.

Advantages

• Excess weight loss is generally higher than gastric banding procedures.
• One year after surgery, weight loss can average over 65%-80% of excess body weight.
• Longer proven track record of success.
• Rapid correction of medical problems
• Appetite reduction

Disadvantages

• More likely to result in micronutrient deficiencies.
• Bigger operation, which involves division of the stomach and small intestine
• Dumping syndrome may occur
• The stomach and parts of the small intestine cannot be seen easily using X-ray or endoscopy if there are problems after surgery such as ulcers, bleeding, or malignancy