How does gastric bypass surgery cause me to lose weight? Gastric bypass works very well because it limits the amount of food you can eat. Also, you will become uncomfortable after consuming refined sugar such as chocolate, soda, pastry, etc. Finally, only a portion of the calories you eat are absorbed because the stomach and first part of the small intestine are bypassed. The bypass portion of the surgery helps keep your weight off in the long-term.
What happens to the bypassed stomach? The bottom of the stomach is preserved and continues to function although food no longer passes through it. That portion of the stomach will continue to produce digestive juices, which empty out of the bottom of the stomach and meet with the food in the small bowel.
Am I a candidate for bariatric surgery? To qualify for surgery, you must show evidence that you have tried to lose weight by structured, nonsurgical means: health clubs, recognized diet programs, nutritional counseling, medically supervised diets, etc. You also must demonstrate that you have the physical stamina to undergo a major operation and be committed to making lifelong lifestyle changes.
Will my insurance cover the costs of the operation? Most private insurance companies will cover all or part of the expense of the operation. However, most have strict guidelines for authorizing gastric bypass surgery. Your insurance policy must be evaluated individually and your surgeon must be a participant. Our business office will work with you in making necessary financial arrangements.
Where will my gastric bypass surgery be performed? It will be performed at Henry Ford Macomb Hospital - Warren Campus in Warren, Michigan.
Are there risks with the surgery? There are risks with any surgery - particularly when the patient is morbidly obese. However, these risks can be greatly reduced with an experienced bariatric surgery team and by carefully following instructions before and after your surgery. Your surgeon will explain the risks in detail during your surgical evaluation and recommend steps you can take to minimize them. In most cases, the surgical risks are outweighed by the benefits you will gain as a result of the surgery.
How long does the surgery last? The surgery typically takes 1½ to 2 hours.
How long will I be in the hospital? Typical hospital stays last for one to four days, depending on how patients feel.
How long will I be off from work? Patients typically experience a recovery period of four to six weeks. Your recovery period may be longer or shorter.
What about the extra skin, once I have lost weight? Skin elasticity is very individual. It depends on heredity, age, exercise and amount of weight loss and its distribution. Many patients do not feel the need for excess skin removal. In case where it is, plastic surgery can take place, usually 12 to 18 months after surgery.
Is such rapid weight loss dangerous? Usually not. Patients need to understand how important follow-up appointments are. These visits allow us to monitor your weight loss and to ensure proper nutrition, as well as make sure you are receiving adequate levels of protein, vitamins, and minerals. After surgery, many patients experience weight loss plateaus - periods of time when they do not lose weight. During these plateaus, which can last a few weeks, most patients notice body dimension changes as they lose inches instead of pounds.
Are staples used in this surgery? Yes, staples are used when cutting the stomach and the small bowel. Metal clips are also used to control bleeding. We also use staples to close the skin. It's important to keep in mind, though, that this is not a gastric stapling procedure like those done years ago.
Can you drink alcohol after this surgery? We strongly recommend that you do not use alcohol. If you choose to drink, be aware that it may be absorbed more quickly than before, leading to rapid intoxication.
Can you smoke after surgery? Smoking may stimulate gastric secretions that can irritate the lining of the stomach. This irritation may cause gastritis and ulcers in the stomach and small intestine.
Can I drink coffee and soft drinks for my fluid requirements? Substituting caffeinated drinks for water tends to dehydrate your body. They act as a diuretic and may stimulate your appetite. Many patients avoid carbonated beverages during the first 6 months after surgery because carbonation can cause painful gas. Instead, some patients drink sugar-free decaffeinated soft drinks that have been opened and allowed to go "flat".
Will I vomit or have diarrhea after surgery? These are not expected outcomes, but they do occur with some patients. Call your physician if you are experience vomiting or diarrhea frequently. Certain foods may cause diarrhea.
When I get ill, do I vomit with acid and/or bile like other people? In this operation, the stomach and the area where the bile empties to the bowel is bypassed. Instead of vomiting bile, patients typically experience the "dry heaves".
Do I have to take vitamins for the rest of my life? Gastric bypass patients typically do take vitamins for the rest of their lives because the procedure affects the absorption of certain vitamins and minerals. Vitamins and mineral supplements are usually effective at compensating for this change in absorption.
How can I learn more? Make the first step towards a happier, healthier you by registering for one of our informational seminars. These seminars, presented by our surgeons and patient care team, give you the chance to ask any questions you may have as you learn more about the procedure. Please bring a copy of both sides of your insurance card. You'll complete some forms which will allow our insurance verification specialist and registered nurse to confirm your eligibility.
