If you are considering weight loss surgery, your doctor will most likely discuss several options with you. These options include Gastric bypass, Sleeve gastrectomy, Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, and Adjustable gastric banding. Each has its advantages and disadvantages. Find out which one is right for you.
Gastric bypass
A gastric bypass is a weight loss procedure that makes the stomach smaller and reduces the amount of calories consumed. It does this by dividing the stomach into a smaller upper section and a larger bottom section. This surgery also removes part of the stomach that produces the “hunger hormone,” which reduces appetite and increases fullness. It can also improve symptoms of heartburn.
Gastric bypass is generally safe and effective for weight loss, but it does come with risks. Long-term complications can include vitamin and mineral deficiencies, which require ongoing supplementation. These deficiencies can lead to anemia and osteoporosis. Patients must also be aware that their diet will drastically change after the surgery. The Dr Govind Krishna surgeon will provide detailed instructions about how to eat after the procedure. Generally, patients begin by eating small amounts of liquid and then transition to pureed and soft foods.
Sleeve gastrectomy
Sleeve gastrectomy is a common weight loss procedure in which a portion of the stomach is removed. It’s designed to reduce the stomach size by about 15%. The surgeon removes a large portion of the stomach along its greater curvature, leaving a tube-like structure in its place.
The procedure usually results in rapid weight loss. Patients can return to eating regular, healthy foods about a month after the procedure. However, they’ll have to eat much less than they did before the procedure. As a result, they may experience nutritional deficiencies, so multivitamins, calcium supplements, and a monthly B-12 shot may be required. Most insurance companies cover the procedure for qualified individuals.
Roux-en-Y gastric bypass
Gastric bypass surgery involves dividing the stomach into two pouches and rearranging the small intestine to connect the upper pouch to the smaller one. This method is very effective for people with a large amount of excess weight. However, it is not for everyone.
Roux-en-Y gastric bypass is typically performed through laparoscopic techniques. A video camera and a small scope are inserted through tiny abdominal incisions. The surgeon then staples a section of the stomach to form a small pouch. This pouch will restrict the amount of food the patient can eat. The surgeon then connects the pouch to a section of the small intestine called the jejunum. This reduces calorie absorption and can lead to higher weight loss.
Adjustable gastric banding
Gastric banding is a procedure in which the surgeon divides the stomach into an upper and lower pouch. The band is then inflated with sterile saline to the proper diameter. The surgeon uses a camera to guide the procedure and makes several small incisions on the abdomen. The surgeon then places an access port underneath the patient’s skin to adjust the band and inject or aspirate saline solution. This procedure is effective for reducing weight and helping people with diabetes.
Aside from gastric banding, there are other surgical procedures available. Gastric banding is the only FDA-approved weight-loss procedure for individuals with a BMI of 30 or higher who are unable to lose weight on their own. Other weight-loss surgeries include the gastric sleeve and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass.