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Gastric Bypass Surgery

By reducing the size of your stomach, gastric bypass surgery restricts how much you can eat so that you can lose weight gradually and safely.

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WHAT IS A GASTRIC BYPASS?

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WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF A GASTRIC BYPASS?

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WHY CHOOSE THE HOSPITAL GROUP FOR GASTRIC BYPASS SURGERY?

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WHAT IS A GASTRIC BYPASS?

Gastric bypass surgery is a procedure that can help you to achieve long term weight loss. It can be an effective solution for anyone who has tried many other methods of diet and exercise, yet still has a body mass index (BMI) of 30 (or above).

This procedure can take different forms, but one of the most popular in the UK is called a Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. The goal of each procedure is always the same - reducing the size of your stomach, which restricts how much you can eat. A gastric bypass also affects your hunger and appetite levels.

An alternative procedure to the Roux-en-Y gastric bypass is a mini loop gastric bypass. This is a newer type of bypass which works in much the same way and offers the same benefits. The key difference is that a mini gastric bypass will involve less 'rerouting' of the digestive system.

In a gastric bypass operation, your digestive system is rebuilt to change how your stomach and intestines manage your food intake. A smaller pouch is created in the top part of your stomach, which leaves a larger pouch in the lower part of your stomach that will no longer be used.

In essence, this procedure makes the stomach smaller. The smaller pouch is connected to your small intestine by a small tunnel created by your surgeon – 'bypassing' the rest of the stomach. The food you eat after a gastric bypass also misses out the first section of your small intestine.

The difference between a Roux-en-Y and a mini gastric bypass is in the number of anastomosis (or joins) between the stomach and bowel. A Roux-en-Y gastric bypass has two of these 'joins' – upper and lower. A mini bypass will have just one and misses out more of the small intestine.

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In both procedures, you'll experience an increase in hormones that make you feel satisfied. At the same time, the hormones that make you feel hungry will be reduced, which will reduce your overall appetite too. As a result, a gastric bypass can help you lose weight safely and effectively over time.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF A GASTRIC BYPASS?

Gastric bypass surgery can help you achieve your long-term weight loss goals. The third 2020 National Bariatric Surgery Register study found that, on average, a person can lose more than 70% of excess weight within one year of surgery.

If you decide to have gastric bypass surgery, you might find that substantial weight loss leads to better mobility, an increase in energy levels, and a number of improvements to your quality of life. This can include a wider choice of clothing that would've previously felt uncomfortable.

A gastric bypass may also help with a number of weight-related health issues. Type 2 diabetes and hypertension are among the conditions that are known to be improved with gastric bypass surgery. Every patient is different, but this is something we can discuss with you.

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Once you start to see the results from your procedure, you might be able to live a more active lifestyle with your family and friends. And you may also feel more confident in social situations because of your slimmer body.

Are there any risks?

There are risks involved with all surgical procedures. If you believe that gastric bypass surgery could help you, it's also important you know what the risks are before you go ahead. By doing so, you can weigh up those risks against the benefits your procedure could bring.

We want your decision to be made based on all the facts, and so we'll discuss all the potential risks of a gastric bypass during your consultation. You can also ask any questions you might have.

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In some cases, gastric bypass side effects can include bleeding, infection, pain, scarring, or reflux.

Can I get a gastric bypass?

This procedure could be the answer to shedding your excess weight and living a healthier life. It's not for everyone, but you might be suitable if you suffer with obesity, have a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or over, and tried to lose weight in other ways that haven't worked.

We may also be able to offer you gastric bypass surgery if you have an existing medical issue linked to weight, although you must be prepared to change your lifestyle too. This means following the advice of our dietitians, for example, and making healthier food choices in future.

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It'll also help is you engage in regular planned exercise after surgery to achieve, and maintain, your weight loss results. The impact of a gastric bypass can be life-changing, and our expert surgeons can advise you on whether you're a suitable candidate during your consultation.

WHY CHOOSE THE HOSPITAL GROUP FOR GASTRIC BYPASS SURGERY?

Let us help you achieve a healthier lifestyle. The Hospital Group has more than four decades of experience of providing Roux-en-Y and, more recently, mini gastric bypass surgery. With our high levels of care and years of experience, we help our patients to transform their lives for the better.

There are many benefits to coming to us for a gastric bypass procedure, which include:

Our advanced medical facilities, including our own state-of-the-art Burcot Hall private hospital in Bromsgrove, as well as a network of clinics located around the UK.

Highly qualified bariatric surgeons with in-depth experience and years of expertise, who are all fully registered with the General Medical Council - for your complete peace of mind.

A holistic approach to your health and wellbeing, starting from your first consultation with us and continuing right through to the comprehensive aftercare packages we offer.

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As our patient, you're at the centre of everything we do. Each person in our care can expect to receive a standard of service that's personal to them and tailored to their requirements.

Fast Facts

Surgery Time: 1 - 2 Hours
Time Off Work: 7 - 10 Days
Hospital Stay: 1 Night
Full Recovery: From 6 - 8 Weeks
Exercise: After 6 Weeks
Expected Weight Loss: 30 - 35% Of Total Body Weight

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Patient Stories

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FAQ

Gastric Bypass Surgery FAQs

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Why get gastric bypass surgery?
Like any surgical procedure, having a gastric bypass is a major decision, but there can be great benefits from it. It's a proven method of weight loss, and is ideal when you have a lot of weight to lose and have already tried many conventional methods without long-term success.
What are the advantages of gastric bypass surgery?
For anyone suffering with serious obesity, the advantages of gastric bypass surgery often tend to outweigh the risks. The benefits can include: − Improvements in heart disease and cancer risk factors − Lower cholesterol levels − Improvements in a range of health conditions including sleep apnoea, asthma, joint pain, arthritis, reflux, fatigue, and shortness of breath − Reduced feelings of depression, improved self-esteem, and confidence, as well as an increased sense of wellbeing The third 2020 National Bariatric Surgery Registry Report also found how the Roux-en-Y gastric bypass reduced the incidence of Type 2 diabetes in patients from 34% to 14% in only one year. The prevalence of hypertension also fell from 38% to 22% in the year after Roux-en-Y surgery.
Gastric bypass vs sleeve vs band: Which should I get?
Here at The Hospital Group, our specialist team will help you find the weight loss solution that's right for you. We offer several different procedures, including gastric bypass, gastric band and gastric sleeve surgery. As part of your initial consultations, your surgeon assistant and surgeon will guide you through the key differences between a gastric bypass and other options. That way, we can help you find the best solution that's in line with your weight loss goals.
Gastric bypass surgery: What is it and what happens during it?
Gastric bypass surgery is a proven method of weight loss which could be perfect if you've tried other conventional methods without seeing long-term success. We can offer a complete service, including skilled surgeons, specialist dietitians, nurses, and weight loss support team members. We see this as the best way to help you get the best possible results from your weight loss journey. The operation is carried out under general anaesthetic, generally using keyhole (laparoscopic) surgery. This means your surgeon will make several small cuts into your stomach and use a set of small medical instruments that are guided by a telescope equipped with a camera. A stapling device is used to make the pouch at the top of your stomach. The next step is to cut the small intestine and connect to the stomach pouch. The amount of small intestine 'bypassed' will be determined by the weight you want to achieve, and the nutrients required to maintain it. The small cuts will then be closed by your surgeon with stitches or metal clips.
How long does gastric bypass surgery take?
This depends on the patient, the surgeon, and the type of gastric bypass operation. For Roux-en-Y procedures, it normally between 90 minutes and two hours if carried out by keyhole surgery. A mini-loop gastric bypass can be a quicker procedure. If you’re having a gastric band removed at the same time, the operation will usually take longer. But you can discuss this with your surgeon.
What happens after the gastric bypass procedure?
After gastric bypass surgery, you'll only be able to manage smaller portions of food and as a result your body will absorb fewer calories. There will also be changes in your gut hormones that will lead to reduced feelings of hunger, so you should feel satisfied for longer on smaller portions. As with any weight loss, a healthy diet and regular exercise are needed to ensure you achieve the best results. And this means you'll have to make a few lifestyle changes.
How long will I be in hospital?
Again, this depends on the patient and the surgeon. Usually, you'll stay in one of our specialist hospitals for 2-3 nights after your surgery, but in some cases you can return home after one night.
How long is the gastric bypass recovery time?
The gastric bypass recovery time varies from person to person. Your surgeon and bariatric team will tell you what this will be for you as part of your personalised care plan. After you leave hospital, we advise you don’t do anything too strenuous for at least six weeks after your surgery.
Are there any gastric bypass side effects?
As with any surgery, there can be complications during and after surgery. These include: − Bleeding − Complications due to anaesthesia and medications − Infections − Blood clots on the lung − Deep vein thrombosis − Wound breakdown or leaks from the staple line − Spleen injuries − Marginal ulcers Such complications are rare, however. Our expert surgeons are highly skilled and experienced in performing bariatric procedures, with a proven record of safe, successful surgery. We'll be sure to make you aware of all the possible short and long-term risks of gastric bypass surgery too. That way, you're fully informed before you decide to have the procedure.
What does my BMI need to be for gastric bypass surgery?

A gastric bypass could be suitable if you have a BMI of 40 or more – or a BMI of 35 or more if you have an obesity-related condition such as Type 2 diabetes. New guidelines state that surgery should be offered as a first-line treatment if you were recently diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes and your BMI is over 30. These are just guidelines, however, and every patient is different.

Will gastric bypass surgery help if I have diabetes?
The World Health Organization (WHO) believes that being overweight/obese is major risk factor for diabetes. The unique changes in gut hormones that follow a gastric bypass are also thought to improve diabetic control, independently of weight loss. While we can't guarantee that your personal management of diabetes will change, many of our patients have reduced their diabetic medications and improve their condition overall.
Can gastric bypass surgery be reversed?

No – this type of surgery is permanent. If you're looking for something less permanent, gastric band surgery could be an alternative.

Can I have gastric bypass surgery twice?
It's possible to revise your gastric bypass. But this does have increased risks of complication. For this reason, a second gastric bypass generally won't be offered if you've regained weight and didn't make the changes needed to your diet and lifestyle.
What can I eat after gastric bypass surgery?
It's really important you follow the advice of your dietitian and surgeon in relation to your diet after a gastric bypass. You’ll need to follow a nutritious and healthy diet, making sure you consume the right amounts of protein and vitamins. Our team will go through this in detail with you, so you know exactly what you can eat after a gastric bypass. As you can't absorb as many minerals and vitamins after gastric bypass surgery, you must take supplements for the rest of your life. You'll also need regular blood tests to check for any nutritional deficiencies After 2-3 months, most patients are usually back on a varied diet of solid food. Some patients may struggle with certain textures of food, however, such as bread or red meat. In addition, a phenomenon known as Dumping Syndrome can occur if too much sugar is consumed. This results in symptoms such as dizziness, sweating, palpitations, and bloating. Patients often say these symptoms can help stop them from eating too much sugar and enhance weight loss.
What can I drink after gastric bypass surgery?
A gastric bypass won't affect what you can drink, or how much. But it's vital to remember the dietary advice that our team will give you to help achieve your goals. Drinks high in sugar (e.g., colas) or calories (e.g., alcohol) can reduce the weight loss impact of a gastric bypass.
Is there a gastric bypass post-surgery diet to follow?
Our expert team of dietitians will talk to you in detail about what foods you can eat after gastric bypass surgery, and help you make sure you’re getting all the nutrition you need. Generally, you’ll have to follow a more nutritious diet after a gastric bypass, since your portions will be smaller and fewer nutrients will be absorbed. It’s important you are managing a good protein intake, so our dietitians will advise you on this. Also, because you won’t be able to absorb as many minerals and vitamins after your gastric bypass, you’ll have to take supplements for life and will need regular blood tests to check for any nutritional deficiencies. Here at The Hospital Group, we offer a wide range of weight loss supplements to help you with your gastric bypass diet.

Next steps

First appointment


Your journey with The Hospital Group begins with a telephone consultation with our friendly surgeon assistants. During this conversation you can talk through why you’re interested in surgery, how much it costs, how much recovery time you’ll need, and potential surgery dates. Whenever you decide to book a surgery date, you can secure it for a minimum refundable deposit of £500.

If you would like to proceed, we will book your free weight loss consultation.

SURGICAL CONSULTATION


During the consultation with your surgeon, you will talk about your goals for surgery and go through your medical history to ascertain whether you are a suitable candidate for this procedure. You will also discuss the results you might expect, as well as the possible risks and complications of surgery. You will then be referred to a clinic nurse for pre-operative assessments and tests and a dietitian for discussion and advice on the pre- and post-operative diet.

THE SURGERY


You will meet your surgeon on the day of your surgery so that you can talk through any final questions you might have and read through the consent form. The whole surgical team will be introduced to you before heading into theatre for the procedure.

The specifics of surgery will be discussed prior to the day – you will find out how long it will take, the types of anaesthetics used, and they will talk you through the procedure itself.

RECOVERY


Following weight loss surgery, you will need to stay in hospital for the initial stages of your recovery. You will likely feel swollen and in some pain following the procedure. Our friendly nursing team will be on hand to look after you and provide any painkillers you might need.

Immediately after surgery, you will be given intravenous drip hydration so that your fluid levels are maintained. The procedure is carried out under general anaesthetic, so you will need to arrange for someone to drive you home when you are discharged. We recommend that you have someone with you until the effects of the anaesthetic wear off.

We will talk you through taking care of yourself at home before you leave hospital. There is also a 24/7 helpline available to you where you can call a member of the clinical team at any time for support.

AFTERCARE


The surgery itself is only the beginning, and we believe in the highest standard of aftercare following your procedure. Your body needs time to heal, and you will need to stay off work until you feel ready to return. You should also avoid any heavy lifting or strenuous activity for around six weeks. Recovery periods can be discussed with your surgeon before the procedure.

There are a number of different aftercare packages available to help aid you in your weight loss journey and these will be discussed during your consultation process. You can read more about these on our aftercare page.

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