The key word in this surgical procedure is “bypass.” Your surgeon reduces the size of your stomach so food bypasses it and the first part of the small intestine. This limits how much you can eat, leaves you feeling full after eating small amounts and limits the amount of food digested, decreasing the calories your body absorbs.
How It Works
The main objective with Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery is to give you a smaller stomach pouch and bypasses the first part of the small intestine. Our surgeons perform this procedure using minimally invasive and robotic surgical techniques. The procedure is done by small incisions on the abdomen.
Pros
Having weight loss surgery is a big step, but the benefits of Roux-en-Y gastric bypass are life-changing, including:
- Weight loss, potentially more than you expect
- Control of diabetes, cholesterol and blood pressure
- Curbed cravings, especially for sugar or fats
- Better control of acid reflux/Barrett’s esophagus
Cons
Your surgeon will also discuss with you the cons of Roux-en-Y surgery, which can include:
- Permanent changes to your anatomy.
- Leaking at the new connections made in your digestive tract, where ulcers or a narrowing called strictures can also form
- Potential for hernias
- The need to take vitamin supplements for the rest of your life to replenish what your body will no longer get from food.
Risks
Every type of surgery comes with such risks as:
- Bleeding at the incision
- Blood clots
- Infection
- Adverse reaction to anesthesia
- Lung or breathing problems
In addition, risks specific to this surgery include:
- Leaks in your gastrointestinal system
- Bowel obstruction
- Dumping syndrome, which causes diarrhea, nausea and/or vomiting
- Gallstones
- Hernias
- Low blood sugar
- Malnutrition
- Stomach perforation
- Ulcers
- Vomiting