The gastric bypass is a procedure used to help severely obese individuals lose weight. The procedure works by separating the stomach into two, with an upper and lower section. The small intestine is then rerouted to the upper half of the stomach which is the smaller section as shown below. The purpose of this is to reduce the amount of food that can enter the stomach, which also reduces the number of nutrients that can be absorbed, causing weight loss for the individual.
Our procedures at Healthier weight are all completed laparoscopically, compared to open surgery which helps reduce the amount of pain and recovery time for our patients. Laparoscopic surgeries also reduce the chance of complications as well as a shorter hospital stay for patients.
Furthermore, to care for our patients we ensure they have an examination beforehand to ensure they are eligible for the procedure. This includes checking a simple eligibility criteria, including factors such as their body max index. If they are deemed eligible by our team, they can continue with the process, including consultations with medical professionals before their procedure.
The gastric bypass is one of the most effective procedures out of all the bariatric options, with patients losing up 80% of their excess weight within the first year. However, it also has its limitations, which can cause people to prefer alternatives such as the band or the sleeve.
Like every operation, there is a risk of bleeding and infection. This is because germs can enter incisions that were made during the operations. Surgical wounds can happen from 2-3 days after the initial operation (NHS). Therefore, it’s important to keep the wounds clean with saline solution to remove any drainage or dry blood from the wound.
Another risk is nutritional deficiencies. This is because bypass patients don’t fully digest vitamin b12 from protein foods. This is a disadvantage as it plays a role in your brain and nervous system function both physically and psychologically. Therefore, it is important you take the vitamins recommended by Healthier Weight after having your operation.
Dumping syndrome is a condition where food moves too quickly from your stomach to your small bowel too quickly after eating. This process can happen a lot more with foods that are high in sugar. This is a disadvantage as it can cause symptoms such as rapid gastric emptying as well as vomiting and feeling bloated.
On the other hand, the procedure is a very effective operation which is performed to help improve a patient’s quality of life. For a lot of people, bariatric surgery is the only option to live a happier life. Therefore, by having this procedure that’s exactly what can be achieved.
The main benefit of the gastric bypass is that it causes weight loss which can have major benefits attached, such as a longer life expectancy. For people who suffer from obesity, by limiting the amount you can eat you can also improve your relationship with food, which can massively help you psychologically.
With weight loss, your body will naturally perform better. This can cause other illnesses that are associated with obesity, to reduce. These illnesses include the following:
With the previous two points in mind, your quality of life as a bariatric patient can majorly improve after surgery. With your body being more physically active and better mental health, you are more open to trying new things. One of our favourite examples of this is with one of our patients, Andi Barker, who saw a significant difference in his mental and physical state, allowing him to do more things with his family on big occasions and on a day-to-day basis.
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Reading Time: 2 minutes Bariatric surgery is a life-changing step towards achieving a healthier body and a healthier lifestyle. Whilst it does offer a physical transformation, it’s crucial to