Gastric Bypass Surgery (Roux-en-Y) ...
Gastric bypass surgery works in two ways, the stomach is reduced
in size and a part of the intestine is bypassed. You feel full more quickly than
when your stomach was its original size, which reduces the amount of food you eat
and thus the calories consumed. Bypassing part of the intestine also results in
fewer calories being absorbed. This leads to weight loss. Gastric Bypass Surgery
is known as the "Rolls Royce" of bariatric procedures, this is because
it is relatively trouble free there is little requirement for aftercare. Eating
is easier than with other bariatric procedures and the candidate has a far more
normal diet and lifestyle, even the occasional glass of bear is possible.
This is of course major surgery and like all major surgeries things can go wrong
but the health risks associated with obesity far exceed any risks associated with
this surgery. For such candidates with a BMI of over 60 where surgery carries a
larger risk the gastric balloon can be used to
promote short term weight loss and reduce the candidates BMI to an operable level.
Average weight loss with the Gastric Bypass is approximately 70%
of the excess weight over 2 years. Once the ideal weight has been reached it remains
stable. This is the most effective procedure for candidates with a high BMI.
The procedure can be either open or Laprascopic.
What is Laprascopic surgery?
Laparoscopic surgery is performed through a small tube. Many people
are of the opinion that there is only one incision. This is not the case. Laparoscopic
surgery has normally three incisions. The smallest incision (about 2cm) is located
in the navel so as to disguise any post operative scarring, through this opening
a tube is inserted that inflates the stomach cavity like a balloon. This enables
the surgeon room to see clearly and be able to carry out the procedure with ease
and safety. Two incisions 2 - 3 cm long and located on either side of the tummy
(depending on the procedure). One is for the camera lens which places the whole
view of the procedure up on a wide screen TV in front of the surgeon. The second
is for the instruments which are used to carry out the procedure. The advantages
of a laprascopic procedure are the fast recovery, rapid healing process, and also
the lack of scars afterwards.
How does the Gastric Bypass
work?
With gastric bypass surgery procedure as with the Mac Lean vertical
banded gastroplasty the stomach is apportioned and a smaller pouch is created. In
addition to this procedure a part of the intestine is bypassed reducing the level
of food absorption. This means that the candidate has both a smaller stomach and
a partial intestinal bypass. The candidate is hit with the “double whammy”
of feeling full sooner and absorbing less of their food.
The excluded and unused portion of stomach remains healthy and unchanged
making the procedure reversible.
Advantages
With the Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass, people eat much
more normally with little likelihood of vomiting. The quality of life is excellent
and there is a good chance of reaching and staying at your ideal weight.
Aftercare requirements are relatively simple a blood test is required 6 months after
surgery, this is to monitor the blood and ensure that the suture has no leaks, in
addition it is a check to ensure that the candidate is receiving a sufficient vitamin
intake. The candidate will find that their weight will drop evenly and relatively
rapidly for the next two years. Candidates often wish to have cosmetic surgery following
on the success of their their weight loss surgery. Tummy tucks (abdominiplasty)
and some skin tightening even breast lifts can greatly enhance the way a person
feels about themselves and markedly change their appearance. However before considering
cosmetic surgery make sure that your weight has been stable for 6 months.
Disadvantages
As with all major surgeries there are risks. The risks
associated with gastric bypass surgery are minimal. Today with careful filtering
of the candidate beforehand and extensive pre surgery testing the risks to the patient
are extremely low. Many patients are concerned that the risks of apportioning the
stomach can lead to major complications. This is extremely unlikely to happen. In
a very few cases the stomach has leaked and this can usually be corrected. Very
rarely it has led to death, only in a very few candidates and usually due to failings
of the surgeon or health management where the surgery took place. It is therefore
important to use a competent well practiced surgeon Such as Dr Stefaan de Clercq
and his team to ensure a successful outcome.
Once the stomach has healed the internal joins completely heal up the staples heal
over and the stomach wall is as it was before it was cut. The part of the stomach
that is no longer used remains quite healthy but unused. This means that at any
time it can be reconnected and the procedure reversed.
The candidate will absorb less vitamins and food and as such may need to take vitamin
supplements on a daily basis. In addition medicines and drugs may be less absorbed.
Candidates that loose excessive amounts of weight become more fertile. If they are
on "the pill" then the hormones that are the active ingredient of "the
pill" will not be absorbed as effectively so pregnancy can occur.
The candidate will have to replace their clothes so careful planning can save money
in this area. Many candidates have found that they need some form of cosmetic surgery
to reduce the amount of excess skin and generally tighten and remove loose areas.
This should be planned for 2 years after surgery once their weight as stabilised
for 6 months.
Gastric Bypass Program -
- We contact you to set a target date for
treatment and confirm your travel details
- We send you a confirmation & invoice
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