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Bariatric surgery explained in 5 clicks

A surgeon describes what to expect from this popular weight loss surgery.

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Is weight loss surgery in the back of your mind as you try to get your weight and overall health under control? If you have a body mass index (BMI) over 40 or a BMI of 35 with at least two obesity-related medical conditions, you may be a candidate. And while there are a variety of weight loss surgeries to choose from, one of the most popular in the US is the Roux-en-YShow More

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Before the Procedure

Patients typically see a variety of healthcare providers for evaluation, such as a dietitian, a psychologist, a cardiologist and a pulmonologist. Patients are also put on a disciplined plan to start changing their lifestyle. “It's best to prepare before the surgery to start losing weight and eatingShow More

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The First Half of the Procedure

Gastric bypass surgery can be open (requiring a single large incision) or laparoscopic, where the surgeon makes several small incisions and uses a tiny camera, called a laparoscope, to see inside the belly. "We do laparoscopic surgeries 99% of the time,” says Sanni. “The patient experiences lessShow More

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The Second Half of the Procedure

Next, the surgeon performs the bypass by connecting the small intestine to the pouch. With the bypass, fewer calories are absorbed. Food travels from the pouch through this new opening and then to the small intestine. Possible complications during gastric bypass surgery include bleeding, bloodShow More

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Recovery and Potential Complications

“Recovery is great,” says Sanni. “Most patients go home within 24 hours after surgery and get back to work about two weeks later.” But caution with your eating habits after surgery is crucial. Overeating can lead to vomiting, pain and weight gain in the long term. Sanni also emphasizes theShow More

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Life After Surgery

For long-term success, it’s important to maintain a high protein, low carb diet and take supplements as prescribed by your nutritionist or surgeon. Supplements are necessary since the bypassed portion of the small intestine is where certain vitamins and minerals are absorbed. A moderate exerciseShow More

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