What Are the Signs That You May Be a Candidate for Gastric Bypass Surgery?

Gastric bypass surgery is generally recommended when other weight loss methods have failed, and obesity poses serious health risks. You may be considered for this surgical procedure if:

1. Your Body Mass Index (BMI) is 40 or higher, which is classified as severe obesity.

2. Your BMI is between 35 and 40, and you have obesity-related health conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure (hypertension), sleep apnea, or other serious conditions that can improve with weight loss.

3. You’ve tried non-surgical weight loss methods (like diet, exercise, or medications) for at least six months without significant or lasting results.

4. In some urgent or high-risk cases, surgery may be considered sooner, especially if your BMI exceeds 50 and you face immediate health concerns.

Risk Factors
What Are the Risks of Gastric Bypass Surgery?

• Excessive bleeding

• Infection

• Reactions to anesthesia

• Blood clots

• Breathing problems

• Leaking in the gastrointestinal system

Preparation

How to Get Ready for Gastric Bypass Surgery

• Begin by selecting a skilled bariatric surgeon and a reputable hospital that fits your budget and location preferences. Also, research the success rate of the surgery at your chosen center.

• Patients need to undergo a pre-surgical evaluation (PSC), which includes blood work, ECG, ECHO for heart health, and urine tests to ensure they are medically fit for surgery.

• Before the operation, patients are required to sign a consent form, confirming their understanding and agreement to the procedure.

• Make sure to inform your doctor about any medications you are currently taking, as some may need to be adjusted or stopped.

• Hospital admission usually happens a day before the surgery. Patients are advised to avoid eating or drinking (remain fasting) as instructed by their medical team.

• Blood-thinning medications must be discontinued at least 10 days before the surgery, as they may increase bleeding risk.

• The procedure is typically done under epidural or spinal anesthesia, which numbs the lower half of the body. A small catheter may be placed in the back to deliver pain relief during and after the operation.

• In India, the cost of gastric bypass surgery ranges from $4,000 to $7,000, depending on factors such as hospital location, patient condition, type of procedure, surgeon’s expertise, and materials used.

Procedure

How Is Gastric Bypass Surgery Carried Out?

Before the surgery begins, both the bariatric surgeon and anesthesiologist will review the procedure with the patient, outlining the advantages as well as possible complications.

Step 1 – Anesthesia Administration:
The patient is placed under general anesthesia, which ensures they remain unconscious and pain-free during the surgery. The process generally lasts several hours.

Step 2 – Performing the Surgery:
This surgery is typically done using a laparoscopic (keyhole) approach. Instead of one large cut, multiple small incisions are made in the abdominal area. Through these, the surgeon uses thin instruments and a camera to complete the procedure. A section of the small intestine is bypassed to reduce nutrient and calorie absorption, supporting long-term weight loss.

Step 3 – Wound Closure:
After completing the operation, the small incisions are sealed using sutures, surgical glue, clips, or adhesive strips. A clean dressing is then applied to help with recovery and prevent infection.

Post Procedure

What to Expect After Gastric Bypass Surgery?

In the initial 1 to 3 days following gastric bypass surgery, patients are typically placed on a liquid diet to allow the digestive system to heal.

To reduce the risk of blood clots (deep vein thrombosis), wearing compression stockings is often recommended.

Pain relief medications may be prescribed to help manage discomfort during the recovery phase.

As the diet progresses, patients should eat only small portions and make sure to chew food thoroughly to support digestion.

Complete recovery usually takes around 4 to 6 weeks, depending on the individual’s overall health and adherence to medical advice.

Success Rate

How Effective Is Gastric Bypass Surgery?

Gastric bypass surgery has shown high effectiveness in long-term weight management. On average, patients are able to lose about 50% to 60% of their excess body weight, and this weight loss can typically be maintained for up to five years or longer with proper lifestyle changes and follow-up care.

FAQs from the Doctor

What Questions to Ask for Gastric Bypass Surgery? 

Before deciding on gastric bypass surgery, it’s essential to have an open discussion with your doctor. Here are key questions you may consider asking:

• Are you a board-certified and experienced bariatric surgeon in India?

• Is this hospital accredited and well-equipped to perform gastric bypass procedures?

• Am I a suitable candidate for this type of surgery based on my health profile?

• What are the success rates of this surgery, and how long does the typical recovery take?

• What is the estimated cost of gastric bypass surgery in Delhi or India?

• What potential risks or complications should I be aware of?

• What treatment plan do you recommend for my condition, and why?

• What options are available if I’m not satisfied with the results of the surgery?

• What are the main benefits and possible drawbacks of undergoing this procedure?

• How long does the surgery usually take?

• How many days will I need to stay in the hospital, and what is the expected recovery time at home?

• When can I return to normal daily activities, including work and exercise?

• Will stitches, staples, or dressings be used, and how are they managed post-surgery?

• Will the surgery leave any scars or long-term physical changes?

• Is there a possibility I might need additional surgery in the future?

• Are follow-up visits or post-operative tests required, and how often?