Gastric Bypass surgery is a weight loss procedure that involves rerouting the digestive system in order to reduce the amount of food that can be consumed and absorbed. It is often recommended for people who are severely overweight or obese and have not had success with traditional weight loss methods. In the UK, gastric bypass surgery is available privately through Allure Weightloss, taking advantage of a network of skilled consultants, dietitians, nurses, facilities, and an overall dedication to patient centred care.
The Procedure
During the gastric bypass procedure, the surgeon will create a small pouch at the top of the stomach and then connect this pouch directly to the small intestine. This means that food will bypass most of the stomach and the first part of the of the small intestine, where most of the nutrients are absorbed. The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia and can take up to 4 hours in order to complete.
Benefits of a Gastric Bypass
One of the most significant benefits of gastric bypass surgery is that is can lead to significant weight loss, which can improve overall health and reduce the risk of many obesity-related diseases such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease. Studies have shown that patients who undergo gastric bypass surgery can lose up to 70% of their excess weight loss in the first two years after surgery.
In addition to weight loss, gastric bypass surgery has been shown to improve or even resolve many obesity-related health problems, such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnoea, and joint pain. This can lead to a better quality of life and reduce the emotional cost of healthcare in the long term.
Risks and Complications
As with any surgery, gastric bypass surgery does carry some risks and potential complications. These can include infection, bleeding, blood clots, and adverse reactions to anaesthesia. There is also a risk of complications specific to gastric bypass surgery, such as dumping syndrome, where food moves too quickly through the digestive system, causing nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea. Patients will also need to take vitamin and mineral supplements for the rest of their lives to prevent deficiencies.
Recovery
After the surgery, patients will stay in the hospital for 1 – 2 nights before being discharged. Recovery time varies, but most people are able to return to work and most normal activities within 2 – 3 weeks. Patients will need to follow a strict diet and exercise plan to ensure they get the nutrients they need while they recover and adapt their new eating habits.
Gastric bypass surgery can be an effective option for people who are obese and have not had success with other weight loss methods. It can lead to significant weight loss and improve many weight-related health problems. However, it does carry some risks and complications, and patients will need to follow a strict diet and exercise plan to ensure they get the nutrients they need whilst they recover and adapt to their new eating habits. If you are considering gastric bypass surgery, it is important to discuss the risks, benefits, and costs with your provider to determine if it is the right option for you.
Speak to a Specialist
Want to learn more about gastric bypass surgery with Allure Weightloss? Our team of medical weight loss specialists can help. Call 0345 512 0094, email info@allureweightloss.com, or use our online enquiry form now.
Allure Weightloss is a CQC registered provider of bariatric surgery and gastric balloons in the UK.
