Gastric bypass surgery is a weight loss procedure that helps patients with obesity lose weight by both restricting the amount of food they can consume and reducing the absorption of nutrients.
During gastric bypass surgery, the surgeon creates a small pouch at the top of the stomach and connects it directly to the small intestine. This bypasses the majority of the stomach and the first part of the small intestine, limiting the amount of food consumed and absorbed by the body.
The surgery is usually performed laparoscopically, which involves making several small incisions in the abdomen and using a camera (laparoscope) to view the surgical area on a screen. Specialised instruments are used to perform the procedure.
After the surgery, patients can expect to stay in the hospital for 2-4 days, and the recovery period typically lasts around 4-6 weeks. It is essential to follow a specific post-operative care plan provided by your healthcare team, which may include dietary modifications, vitamin supplementation, and gradual reintroduction of physical activity.
Gastric bypass surgery can lead to significant weight loss and improvement in obesity-related health conditions. However, it is crucial to maintain a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise, to achieve long-term weight loss success.
It is vital to attend follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and address any concerns or complications that may arise.
Dr Teong Lip Chuah is a highly experienced Upper GI and General surgeon with a history of great patient outcomes. Book your appointment today or call us to learn more about Dr Chuah’s high-quality, often recommended and patient-focused surgical care.