Gastric Bypass

In gastric bypass surgery (also known as Roux-en-Y/RNY Bypass Surgery), the stomach is divided into 2 main parts. One of them is formed in the form of a rather small pouch (pocket). This is an morbid obesity and metabolic operation method in which the newly created pouch is directly attached to the small intestines. The two intestines that will allow your bile and pancreatic secretions to reach the 100-150 cm area that continues are reunited and a new connection is created and the system is regulated.

With the newly created small pouch, the amount of food taken is reduced. On the other hand, foods meet with pancreatic and bile fluids later. In this way, calorie intake is also restricted.

Once the small pouch has been created, this means that the main part of the stomach has now been bypassed. Effectively the stomach has been extensively reduced in size. This results in the new ‘stomach’ (pouch) feeling full much faster than normal. In fact, should the person continue to eat, they will eventually feel quite sick and nauseous. In addition, because part of the small intestine has also been bypassed, the body will not absorb so many calories from the food. These two things combined, less food eaten and less absorption will lead to a weight loss.

A gastric bypass procedure is stomach surgery and is done under general anaesthetic. As with all major operations the patient cannot eat for about 6 hours before the operation and only drink up to 2 hours before the operation. Admittance to the hospital will be the evening before or the morning of the operation. Gastric bypass surgery time is 1-3 hours depending on a variety of different factors. A mini gastric bypass will take up to about 2 hours.

How is this surgery done?

Gastric bypass is usually performed by making 5-6 small incisions in the abdomen with a special surgical camera called laparoscope (as in gastric sleeve surgery). General anesthesia is applied to the patient.

How long does gastric bypass operation take?

Gastric bypass takes approximately 2 hours under normal conditions. It takes longer than sleeve gastrectomy because there is an extra process in the stomach.

How many days is the hospital stay for gastric bypass operation?

It is sufficient to stay in the hospital for about 2-3 days.

How soon after surgery will a patient start losing weight?

If there is no complication after gastric bypass operation and of course you follow your doctor’s instructions, you will start to lose weight quickly. Depending on the metabolism of the patient, it is possible to lose about 10-15 kilos from the first month.

As in other obesity operations, the most important determinant of weight loss in gastric bypass is your body mass index. Weight loss goal is determined according to your body mass index. The goal is to lose at least about 70-75% of your excess weight, which is usually revealed by your body mass index.

Is it possible to regain weight after gastric bypass surgery?

As in all bariatric operations, there may be weight gain back in gastric bypass. There is a certain risk of weight gain, especially if you do not adhere to your diet, healthy lifestyle and exercises. This rate is around 10-15% in gastric bypass surgery.

Who can be applied to gastric bypass?

Gastric bypass can be applied to patients who have or are at risk of developing morbid obesity and related diseases. Of course, as a result of the tests and analyzes that your doctor and specialists will do, it is decided whether you are suitable for this surgery.

Is there an age limit for gastric bypass?

Gastric bypass is an operation that is generally suitable for adults. As a result of the health tests and analyzes of the patients between the ages of 18-60, it is decided by the doctor whether they are suitable for this surgery.

Who is gastric bypass not suitable for?

This surgery cannot be performed in case of pregnancy. It is not recommended to apply gastric bypass to those who are very old and have geriatric diseases or are not adults.

Different protocols are also applied to apply gastric bypass to underage and elderly patients. Parental approval, strict health checks and expert opinions should be obtained.

Gastric bypass will be risky for people with diseases such as stomach, intestine, respiratory disorders, diabetes, heart / blood pressure disorders and circulatory disorders. Comprehensive health tests are carried out. In this process, opinions of various health experts are taken. By applying special protocols, it is decided whether the person can have gastric bypass or not.

You can contact us to find out what the most suitable bariatric operation is for you.

What are the advantages of gastric bypass surgery?

Gastric bypass surgery is very effective on obesity-related diseases, especially diabetes and coronary diseases. In the long term, the probability of regaining weight is reduced by approximately 50%.

What are the disadvantages/complications of gastric bypass surgery?

Complications in bariatric surgery are seen at a very low rate thanks to the medical technologies that have developed in recent years. Although rare, some complications may occur. Gastric bypass also involves bowel surgery. Therefore, complications such as intestinal knot syndrome and intestinal obstruction may occur. However, it was noted that these undesirable results occurred at a rate of 1%.

In addition, gastric bypass patients are more disadvantaged in terms of adequate vitamin intake than patients who have sleeve gastrectomy surgery. Vitamins, minerals and other additional supplements need to be followed strictly.

What is the process like after gastric bypass surgery, what should be considered?

As after all bariatric surgery processes, the most important thing to be considered after gastric bypass is nutrition. You will be fed only with liquid for 24 hours after the surgery. Then, solid foods are started in a controlled manner. Your doctor and dietitian will give you the most suitable nutrition program. When you comply with these and fulfill the exercise program and healthy living conditions, it will be easier to return to your normal life and to lose weight. You will usually return to your normal life within a week. but heavy lifting, sudden movements, etc. You should avoid things. Of course it all depends on you and how determined you are.