• Frequently Asked Questions

 

Frequently Asked Questions About Gastric Bypass Surgery

Who is a candidate for the surgery?

Surgical candidates are people who have a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 or more and are between the ages of 18 and 65.

Is this surgery painful?

Some patients experience pain the first few days after surgery. Our pain management team will work with you to minimize your pain and reach a level of comfort, so that you can walk and tend to your personal needs as soon as possible.

How is the pouch formed during surgery?

The top portion of the stomach is closed off with staples or a certain type of metal clip, leaving open a pouch the size of a grape. This pouch is then connected to the small intestine. This, however, is NOT a gastric stapling procedure like those done years ago.

How long does the surgery last?

Typically, it takes one to two hours. Other surgical procedures take longer.

Can the pouch stretch?

Yes, but not significantly. You should eat small food portions. The more you eat, the more your pouch will stretch.

How long will I take to recover?

It will take approximately six weeks for you to fully recover. During this period, you should not lift anything over ten pounds. You may be able to return to work in two-three weeks if you have the doctor's approval.

Will I have diarrhea or vomit after the surgery?

We do not expect this to happen, however, certain foods can cause diarrhea. If you experience frequent vomiting and/or diarrhea, call the office.

How fast is the weight loss?

It is possible to lose 20% of your excess body weight in the first three to six months after the surgery. Exercising regularly and eating the right foods, in the right portions, will maximize your weight loss. Weight loss will continue for up to two years and the pounds and inches you lose may vary from week to week. As you begin to reach your weight goal, your weight loss will slow down. Remember, it's up to you to keep the weight off.

Isn't rapid weight loss dangerous?

As long as the weight loss is properly managed, it is not dangerous. Your post-surgery follow-up appointments are extremely important. These appointments allow us to monitor your weight loss and ensure that proper nutrition is achieved. We also make sure that your diet includes adequate amounts of protein, vitamins, and minerals.

What is a "Weight Loss Plateau"?

Some patients may experience periods of time when they do not lose weight. These are called weight loss plateaus, and they can last a while. While you might not be losing weight, it is very possible that you might be losing inches. If you do reach a plateau, you should restrict the amount of carbohydrates you consume to less than 20 grams/day and exercise more. This should resolve the problem.

Will I need a blood transfusion because of the surgery?

There is very little blood loss with the surgery and transfusions are normally not required. As with any major surgery, bleeding may occur and a transfusion may be needed to restore blood volume. If you are able to donate your own blood for later use, you may do so. You can also arrange to have family and/or friends donate blood as well. This must be done two weeks before your scheduled surgery. Call your local American Red Cross office for additional information.

What will happen if I eat too much?

You will feel sick and probably throw up. Your body will give off signals that your body is full. If you eat too much, the food will back up into your esophagus and you will feel discomfort, pain, and eventually vomit. Watch for these signals and listed to your body!

Will I be able to drink alcohol after surgery?

You will feel the effects of the alcohol and become intoxicated much faster than you did before the surgery. Therefore, we strongly recommended that you don't drink alcohol.

Can I drink carbonated beverages and coffee?

As part of your daily liquid intake, you can have sugar-free decaffeinated beverages. Try to stay away from carbonation as they can cause painful gas. Since coffee is a diuretic and stimulates your appetite, it is best to drink decaffeinated coffee and tea.

Can I go back to smoking after surgery?

No. Not only does smoking lead to various diseases, but it also stimulate gastric juices, which can irritate the lining of the stomach and cause gastritis and ulcers in the stomach and small intestine.

What is "Dumping Syndrome"?

Dumping occurs after eating or drinking foods that contain pure or refined sugars. These foods are quickly absorbed when they enter the intestine and can cause flushing, sweating, palpitations, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. You may experience one or all of these symptoms and they will vary depending on the amount of sugar/fatty foods you consumed. Relax. The feeling will go away in about half an hour. After the symptoms subside, drink a small amount of water.

What will happen to my skin after such a drastic weight loss?

Every person's skin reacts differently to the weight loss. There are many factors to take into consideration, including your age, your weight loss, how long you have been overweight, how many times you've been pregnant, and the general condition of your skin. Exercise will help tone your body and can contribute to firmer skin.

Will I need to have plastic surgery?

Some patients may choose to have plastic surgery but not everyone who has had this procedure needs it. If you decide to have a 'tummy-tuck' to remove the abdominal apron or the extra skin on your stomach, you will be referred to a plastic surgeon for an abdominoplasty.

Will I have to take supplements for the rest of my life after surgery?

Gastric bypass affects the absorption of vitamins and minerals, therefore, supplements should be a part of your daily diet. They are effective and you will be required to take them for the rest of your life.

What can I do to maintain a positive and focused attitude after surgery?

It is important for you to be active both physically and mentally, while adjusting to your new way of life. ABC has a support group that you should attend before and after surgery. At these meetings you will learn about the surgery and have the opportunity to speak with other patients about their surgical experiences. The surgery is a weight loss tool and will not resolve the issues that might have resulted in your overeating. The support group allows you to address these issues and share them with others who have or are experiencing similar ones. By participating in these sessions, we hope that you become better informed about the procedure and participate more in your own care. You should plan an exercise program for yourself and stick to it. Friends and family are great exercise partners. You will notice that as you lose weight, you will have more energy and will become more focused on your new life.

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