About Gastric Bypass Surgery

The Gastric Bypass procedure, typically called Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass (RGB), works by significantly reducing the amount of food you can consume.

During the procedure, the stomach is stapled in order to create a small 7-10 ml pouch. Then, a small Y-shaped portion of the small intestine is attached to the pouch, to allow food to bypass most of the stomach and the first and second segments of the small intestine. This significantly reduces the body's ability to absorb nutrients and calories. In turn, nutritional supplements must typically be taken, in order to make certain the patient is always receiving proper nutrition.

The surgery only takes slightly over an hour to complete, and patients are monitored closed until they are ready for discharge, typically no more than 48 hours later. Post-surgery, it is extremely important to follow the proper medical, dietary and exercise guidelines provided by the medical team.

As with any major surgery, there are always possible risks and complications. These will vary on a case-by-case basis; therefore, it’s absolutely crucial to discuss these possible risks and complications thoroughly with your physician before making any decisions about the procedure.

Only you and your physician can
determine which procedure is best for you.

About Adjustable Gastric Banding (Lap-Band) Surgery

The Adjustable Gastric Banding procedure, also known as Lap-Band surgery, works by reducing the amount of food your stomach can hold.

During the procedure, an adjustable band is placed around the upper stomach, creating a smaller 15-30 ml stomach pouch. The larger part of the stomach remains below the band. The band controls the opening between the two parts of the stomach, which means when solid food is eaten; the band stretches and causes you to feel full quickly. This procedure is unique because the band can be adjusted to meet the needs of each individual patient, during follow-up visits with your doctor.

This surgery usually only takes about an hour to complete. Patients are closely monitored after surgery until they are ready for discharge, usually no more than 24 hours later.  Post-surgery, it is extremely important to follow the proper medical, dietary and exercise guidelines provided by the medical team.

As with any major surgery, there are always possible risks and complications. These will vary on a case-by-case basis; therefore, it’s absolutely crucial to discuss these possible risks and complications thoroughly with your physician before making any decisions about the procedure.