Gastric Bypass is a type of weight-loss surgery that involves creating a small pouch from the stomach and connecting it directly to the small intestine. This way, the food you eat bypasses most of your stomach and the first part of your small intestine, reducing the amount of calories and nutrients you absorb. Gastric Bypass can help you lose excess weight and improve your health conditions, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or sleep apnea.
Gastric Bypass is usually done as a minimally invasive procedure using a laparoscope, which is a thin tube with a camera and instruments attached to it. The surgeon makes several small incisions in your abdomen and inserts the laparoscope through them. The surgeon then cuts and removes about 80% of your stomach, leaving a banana-shaped pouch. The edges of the pouch are stapled or sewn together. The surgeon then cuts the small intestine and attaches it to the pouch, creating a shortcut for the food. The procedure takes about an hour to complete. You will need general anesthesia, which means you will be asleep and will not feel any pain.
After the procedure, you will stay in the hospital for a few days to monitor your recovery. You will have some pain, swelling, and bruising in your abdomen, which can be managed with medication. You will also have some dietary restrictions and will need to follow a liquid or pureed diet for the first few weeks. Gradually, you will be able to introduce solid foods, but you will need to eat smaller portions and chew well. You will also need to take vitamin and mineral supplements to prevent deficiencies. You will need to follow up with your doctor regularly to check your progress and adjust your medications. You will also need to exercise and adopt a healthy lifestyle to maintain your weight loss.
Gastric Bypass is not for everyone who is severely overweight. You may be a good candidate for gastric bypass if you have a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher, or a BMI of 35 or higher with a serious weight-related health problem, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or sleep apnea. You should also be willing to make permanent changes to your diet and lifestyle and understand the risks and benefits of the procedure. However, Gastric Bypass may not be suitable for you if you have any of the following conditions or situations:
At Ciplastic, the starting cost for a Gastric Bypass procedure is $6,800 usd. Your final cost will depend on your specific individual needs.
Gastric Bypass is not a permanent solution, as your stomach may stretch over time and you may regain some weight. However, Gastric Bypass can last for several years, depending on your results and adherence to the postoperative guidelines. According to the American Society of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery, you can expect to lose at least 50% of your excess weight within the first 18 to 24 months after Gastric Bypass and maintain most of it for up to 10 years.
Gastric Bypass is generally safe and effective when performed by a qualified and experienced surgeon. However, like any major surgery, it carries some risks and potential complications. These include: