Weight Loss Surgery Procedures
We offer both open and laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery as well as laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding. Any of these three approaches to weight loss surgery may be the best option depending on a patient’s condition and health goals.
Open surgery involves a large incision in the abdomen through which the operation is performed. A laparoscopic operation involves making four to six tiny incisions though which special instruments and a small video camera are inserted. Recovery time following a laparoscopic procedure is typically shorter than with open surgery. But laparoscopic surgery is not necessarily a good option for every patient. We help patients determine which approach is best for them.
Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass
Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery is the most popular bariatric surgery in the United States. This procedure sections off the top of the stomach to create an egg-sized pouch. A piece of the small intestine is connected to the pouch, which fills quickly with a small amount of food. A person feels full fast, and as a result, eats less. Food passes from the pouch directly through the small intestine, bypassing the rest of the stomach, which continues to produce digestive juices to help break down food in the small intestine. This new digestive route reduces the amount of calories the body absorbs, which promotes weight loss.
Things to know
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A condition known as dumping syndrome can occur from eating too much sugar following gastric bypass. This is not a serious health risk but can be very unpleasant. Symptoms include vomiting, nausea, weakness, sweating, faintness, and diarrhea. Some patients are unable to eat sugary foods after surgery.
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Gastric bypass can result in poor absorption of iron and calcium causing low total body iron and a greater chance of having iron-deficiency anemia. Patients need to take a multivitamin and calcium supplements.
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It is a permanent, nonreversible procedure.
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Lap Band
The laparoscopic adjustable gastric band procedure places an adjustable silicon ring around the top part of the stomach. The ring, or band, is connected to a fluid reservoir placed beneath the skin that can be adjusted to contract and expand the band. This is a reversible, restrictive procedure that divides the stomach into two portions: a small one over a larger one. Most patients feel full faster as the small portion fills. Food is digested normally. The band needs to be adjusted during regular follow up visits with us following surgery.
Things to know
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Dumping syndrome does not occur.
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The band may erode into the stomach or its position may slip.
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Weight loss is slower than that following Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery.
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