What is Gastric Bypass Surgery?

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Dr. Korman performs the Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) as a minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery. The gastric bypass has been in existence for over 40 years and is regarded as a more aggressive weight-loss procedure.

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The stomach is reduced to the size of an egg by being divided into two unequal parts.  The smaller segment is then connected to the mid-segment of the small intestine. As a result, food bypasses the majority of the stomach and the first portion of the small intestine.  This surgery limits caloric absorption to a small degree in addition to limiting portion size. Dividing the stomach changes the hunger and satiety  signaling to the brain, therefore a patient will be satisfied with smaller portions of food and very importantly,  will be less hungry throughout the day. The decrease in portion size facilitates rapid and significant weight loss.  

 

Why are Gastric Bypasses Performed?

 

The most aggressive of weight loss surgeries, gastric bypasses are performed when traditional weight loss methods such as diet and exercise have failed to provide long term success. This procedure is particularly effective in treating type 2 diabetes. Patients with the following criteria may be a candidate for gastric bypass:

 

• BMI (body mass index) of 40 or greater

• BMI of 35 or greater and suffer from co-morbidities including type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or sleep apnea

 

It is important to remember that a Gastric bypass is most effective when combined with a healthy diet and exercise program. The Marina Weight Loss Center provides post-procedure care for all patients including nutritional counseling and motivational support groups.

 

What are the expected outcomes from the procedure?

 

In just one year, gastric bypass patients can expect to lose up to 70% of their excess weight. For example, if an individual’s ideal weight is 150 lbs., and their weight at the time of surgery was 250 lbs., they can expect to weigh approximately 180 lbs. a year post procedure. As patients lose weight, their co-morbidities generally improve or are alleviated completely. This surgery has excellent data with respect to diabetes resolution.

 

In order to maximize the results of the procedure, Dr. Korman and a registered dietitian will work with you to create a nutritional meal plan that will aid in weight loss while making sure your body is receiving the nutrients it needs. Once you have lost enough excess weight, an exercise routine will become a part of your weight loss plan. As weight loss tapers over time, maintaining a healthy diet and consistent exercise routine are the keys to long term weight loss.

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Is Gastric Bypass Surgery Right for Me?

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Dr. Korman assesses whether patients are candidates for gastric bypass during a preliminary consultation where your individual health concerns are addressed. You can schedule an appointment by calling our office directly: 310-577-5540