Gastric Bypass
Have you tried diet and exercise without sustainable weight loss? Are you tired of false promises of new weight loss “apps”, “meds” and “injectables’”? Have you put honest attempts at weight loss without meaningful results? Do you feel it is getting harder and harder to maintain your weight year after year? Do you want to get rid of your diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea?
If you answered “yes” to any of the above questions, then you are in the right place! And more importantly, you are not alone!
I have often been asked “Doctor R! I want to move forward with weight loss surgery and I do not want any delays! Can you help me?” and the answer is Yes! We CAN help!
Please take a few minutes to carefully read the Frequently Asked Questions below. It will help you understand the potential reasons behind your weight issues and seek proper treatment.
Sincerely,
Dr. R
Have you tried diet and exercise without sustainable weight loss? Are you tired of false promises of new weight loss “apps”, “meds” and “injectables’”? Have you put honest attempts at weight loss without meaningful results? Do you feel it is getting harder and harder to maintain your weight year after year? Do you want to get rid of your diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea?
If you answered “yes” to any of the above questions, then you are in the right place! And more importantly, you are not alone!
I have often been asked “Doctor R! I want to move forward with weight loss surgery and I do not want any delays! Can you help me?” and the answer is Yes! We CAN help!
Please take a few minutes to carefully read the Frequently Asked Questions below. It will help you understand the potential reasons behind your weight issues and seek proper treatment.
Sincerely,
Dr. R
What is Gastric Bypass?
Gastric bypass is a surgical procedure used to aid in weight loss by altering the digestive system. It is typically performed on individuals who are severely obese and have not been successful in losing weight through other methods such as diet and exercise.
During a gastric bypass procedure, the surgeon creates a small pouch at the top of the stomach, which effectively reduces the size of the stomach. This pouch is then connected directly to the middle portion of the small intestine, bypassing the rest of the stomach and the upper portion of the small intestine. This rerouting of the digestive tract limits the amount of food a person can eat and reduces the absorption of nutrients and calories.
There are different types of gastric bypass surgeries, but the most common one is called Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. In this procedure, the surgeon staples the top portion of the stomach to create a small pouch and then attaches a section of the small intestine to the pouch. The remaining stomach and upper portion of the small intestine are bypassed, meaning food enters the small intestine further downstream in the digestive process.
Gastric bypass surgery helps with weight loss through two main mechanisms: restriction and malabsorption. The reduced size of the stomach restricts the amount of food that can be eaten at one time, leading to a feeling of fullness with smaller meals. The bypassed portion of the stomach and small intestine also reduces the absorption of calories and nutrients, further aiding in weight loss.
It’s important to note that gastric bypass is a major surgery and carries risks like any surgical procedure. It requires a significant lifestyle change, including dietary modifications and regular exercise, to achieve successful long-term weight loss. The decision to undergo gastric bypass should be made in consultation with a qualified healthcare professional who can assess the individual’s specific situation and discuss the potential risks and benefits.
Who is the right candidate for gastric bypass?
The decision to undergo gastric bypass surgery is usually made in consultation with a healthcare professional, such as a bariatric surgeon or a specialized medical team. They will consider various factors, including a person’s body mass index (BMI), overall health, previous weight loss attempts, and any obesity-related medical conditions. Generally, gastric bypass surgery may be recommended for individuals with a BMI above 40, or a BMI above 35 with significant obesity-related health issues. However, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate treatment option based on an individual’s unique circumstances.
How Gastric Bypass Works
Gastric bypass is a type of weight-loss surgery that helps people who are severely obese to lose weight. The procedure involves making changes to the digestive system to restrict food intake and alter the way the body absorbs nutrients.
During gastric bypass surgery, the surgeon creates a smaller stomach pouch by dividing the stomach into two sections, using staples or by vertical banding. This reduces the amount of food that can be eaten at one time, leading to a feeling of fullness with smaller meals.
The surgeon then connects the newly created small stomach pouch directly to the small intestine, bypassing a portion of the stomach and the first part of the small intestine. This bypass limits the absorption of calories and nutrients from the food consumed.
By reducing the stomach’s capacity and altering the digestion process, gastric bypass surgery helps individuals eat less and feel satisfied with smaller portions. Additionally, the procedure may affect hormones that regulate hunger and fullness, further contributing to weight loss.
It’s important to note that gastric bypass is a major surgery and should be considered after careful evaluation, consultation with medical professionals, and a comprehensive understanding of its potential risks and benefits.
Effect of Gastric Bypass on hunger hormones
Gastric bypass surgery can have significant effects on hunger hormones. One of the key changes is a decrease in the production of GLP, often referred to as the “hunger hormone.” GLP is primarily secreted by the stomach and stimulates appetite. After gastric bypass surgery, the portion of the stomach that produces GLP is bypassed or removed, leading to reduced levels of this hormone.
Additionally, gastric bypass surgery can alter the production and release of other hormones involved in hunger and satiety regulation, that are released by the intestines in response to food intake and contribute to feelings of fullness or satiety. These hormones tend to increase after gastric bypass, which can help reduce hunger and promote weight loss.
Overall, these hormonal changes resulting from gastric bypass surgery can help reduce feelings of hunger, increase satiety, and contribute to weight loss. However, it’s important to note that individual responses to surgery can vary, and lifestyle changes, including a healthy diet and regular exercise, remain essential for long-term success.
Is Gastric Bypass Safe?
Gastric bypass surgery, like any surgical procedure, carries risks. However, it is generally considered safe and effective for individuals who meet the criteria and have carefully considered the potential benefits and risks. The procedure is typically performed by experienced surgeons in specialized centers. It’s important to consult with a qualified healthcare professional to discuss your individual circumstances, as they can provide more personalized information and guidance regarding the safety and suitability of gastric bypass surgery for you.
Will my diabetes be cured after gastric bypass?
Gastric bypass surgery can have positive effects on type 2 diabetes for many patients. It often leads to significant weight loss, which can improve insulin sensitivity and blood sugar control. While it can result in remission or improvement of diabetes in some cases, it’s important to remember that individual outcomes may vary. It’s crucial to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and to monitor your condition closely throughout the process.
Why choose Torrance Bariatric Institute
At Torrance Bariatrics we provide concierge, individualized and tailored care to our patients, and one patient at a time. More importantly your surgery will be performed at a MBSAQIP accredited facility, where the highest quality of care according to industry standards is guaranteed. Our surgeons have performed thousands of successful surgeries. Patients travel from across the country to have their surgeries (whether initial or revision) at Torrance Bariatrics. Our satisfied patients and their success stories are testament to our difference.
I live far away. Can I have my initial consultation via telemedicine?
Yes!