What is a Gastric Bypass?
Gastric bypass surgery is a highly effective weight loss
procedure which reduces the amount of calories absorbed from your
food whilst helping you to feel full after eating smaller
meals. It works by restricting the capacity of your stomach,
and by bypassing part of your digestive system
The main benefit of gastric bypass surgery is its ability to help
patients lose a significant amount of weight.
What does this involve?
Firstly, a small compartment is created at the top of your
stomach using staples and a piece of your intestine is then joined
to this compartment, which effectively bypasses the rest of your
stomach and the upper part of the intestine. This is where
most nutrients and calories are usually absorbed.
The small top part of your stomach will fill up quickly with
food, giving you a sensation of fullness, and then passes directly
to the middle part of your small intestine and through the rest of
your digestive system. As the digestive system has effectively been
made shorter you should absorb fewer calories.
The procedure can be carried out using keyhole surgery, through
five or six small cuts. It can also be carried out as an open
operation with one vertical cut in the abdomen. Your consultant
will discuss which is more appropriate for you.
Top
When will I recover?
You will normally need to stay in hospital for about three days
after the procedure so you are happy with everything before you go
home.
Most people need six weeks to recover after the operation and
you will need to attend follow-up appointments with your doctor and
dietician.
Our team of dieticians and specialist nurses will look after you
throughout your stay and provide support and advice after
surgery
Top
What risks should I know about?
Gastric bypass is a commonly performed and generally safe
procedure although some patients can find that after a year or two
of rapid weight loss they are left with excess skin.
Top
Circle care
Gastric bypass is carried out at CircleBath, our state of the
art hospital, which provides you with the best facilities and
superb patient care. We have a dedicated team of Weight loss
Surgeons and Nurses who will guide you through the process from
first consultation to after-care and will be available to answer
any questions or queries you may have.
Top