Bypass Facts
There are many frequently asked questions (FAQ) overweight individuals may ask when considering weight loss surgery.
Who is a candidate? Several factors are taken into consideration when determining whether someone is a candidate for weight loss surgery. If any or all of the following are true, you may qualify. Is your body mass index (BMI- an index of your body weight to height ratio) above 40? Do you have a BMI between 35 and 40 as well as weight related issues such as diabetes or high blood pressure? Have you been obese (e.g., more than 100 pounds overweight or at least twice your ideal body weight) for more than five years? Have you tried other methods of weight loss? Are you free from depression or alcohol addiction? Are you between 18 and 65 years of age?
How much weight can I lose? You can expect to experience at least half your targeted weight loss over the first two years. This is highly dependent on how well you adhere to your diet plan and whether you exercise regularly.
How does it work? There are several types of weight loss surgeries with slightly different approaches. Generally the stomach is surgically made smaller and in some types of surgery part of the small intestine is bypassed. Because the stomach is smaller meals are smaller and fewer calories are ingested. If part of the small intestine (where nutrients are absorbed into the bloodstream) is bypassed, fewer calories are absorbed into your system.
Are there side effects? The side effects you experience depend largely on how well you adhere to your diet plan. ‘Dumping syndrome,’ which causes diarrhea, shaking and heart palpitations, occurs when food moves too quickly through the digestive system and can be avoided by eating foods low in sugar and fat.
What are the risks? Initially the risks of having weight loss surgery are similar to those of any other invasive procedures involving anesthesia. After surgery you risk infection or perforation of the suture site in the stomach. Because you are eating less and absorbing fewer nutrients there are also risks of malnutrition and diseases associated with it (e.g., anemia, osteoporosis). You may also experience chronic nausea, diarrhea or constipation.
Does my insurance cover it? Whether your health insurance covers gastric bypass procedures depends largely on the type of policy you hold. Insurance companies covering weight loss surgery generally require documentation from several doctors that you have exhausted other options including traditional dieting and exercise. The approval process generally takes several months.
These are only a few of the facts regarding weight loss surgery. A certified bariatric surgeon is qualified to answer any other questions you may have.