When it comes to surgical weight loss, you have many options. The gastric bypass is one such procedure that helps you lose weight by restriction and malabsorption, meaning it limits the amount you eat and decreases the number of calories you absorb. At The Bariatric Experts™ in Frisco, Abilene, and Denton, Texas, Scott Stowers, DO, and the team performs gastric bypass to help patients reach their weight-loss goals. To schedule a free weight-loss consultation with the experienced team, contact the office by phone or request an appointment online today.
A gastric bypass is a form of weight-loss surgery that involves both your stomach and small intestines.
During the procedure, your surgeon removes most of your stomach, leaving you with a walnut-sized pouch. Your surgeon then bypasses the first portion of your small intestine, known as the duodenum, and reattaches your stomach pouch to your jejunum, the next part of your small intestine.
The gastric bypass supports weight loss by limiting the amount of food you can eat at one time due to the decreased size of your stomach. It also reduces the number of calories your body absorbs by bypassing a portion of your small intestines.
The team at The Bariatric Experts™ can determine if you’re a good candidate for gastric bypass during your weight-loss consultation. Dr. Stowers considers many factors when deciding the best method to help you lose weight and keep it off.
To be considered a good candidate for gastric bypass, you need to have a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or more or a BMI of 35 or more along with serious health issues that would improve with weight loss, such as diabetes or obstructive sleep apnea.
Gastric bypass surgery permanently changes the structure and function of your stomach. In order to be considered a good candidate, you must also be fully committed to making permanent lifestyle changes (including eating a healthy diet and engaging in regular exercise) that reduce the risk of complications and ensure weight-loss success.
Your gastric bypass procedure is performed at the hospital. You can expect to spend one night in the hospital. The team can send you home once you’re able to tolerate liquids, and you can move around without pain.
Dr. Stowers provides you with a structured diet plan to follow after your surgery to support healing and the transition to your new way of life. It may take up to 6 weeks until you’re eating regular food (in smaller portions) following your gastric bypass.
Weight-loss results vary significantly, but most people lose about 20% of their body weight in the first 3 months, and 20% more in the next 9 months. You should expect to continue losing small amounts for 18-24 months.
Gastric bypass is considered the “gold standard” for weight-loss surgery. To learn more about the procedure, contact The Bariatric Experts™ by phone, or book online to schedule your weight-loss consultation today.
