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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
In some cases, gastric bypass side effects can include bleeding, infection, pain, scarring, or reflux.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
No – this type of surgery is permanent. If you're looking for something less permanent, gastric band surgery could be an alternative.
Our prices cover everything from the procedure itself, right through the post-op appointments and your aftercare.
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