Gastric Bypass Surgery Archives - Maryland Bariatrics

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Duodenal Switch vs. Gastric Bypass: Insights for Your Weight Loss Journey

Written on April 3, 2024.

Choosing the right bariatric surgery in Balitimore is a pivotal step toward achieving significant and sustainable weight loss. Some of the most effective procedures include the duodenal switch and the gastric bypass, each with unique benefits and considerations. This guide will delve into the details to help you understand which might be the best fit for your health goals.

Examining Duodenal Switch

The duodenal switch procedure, also known as Biliopancreatic Diversion, is a complex surgery that combines aspects of a gastric sleeve and gastric bypass. In this procedure, a large portion of the stomach is removed; however, the pylorus, which regulates food drainage from the stomach, remains intact. This maintains a more natural digestive process compared to other surgeries.

Advantages of DS

The procedure leads to significant long-term weight loss
Greater reduction in appetite
Improved control of blood sugar, making it highly effective for patients with diabetes

Disadvantages:

More complex surgical technique
Higher risk of nutritional deficiencies due to reduced food absorption
Requires strict adherence to dietary supplements and follow-up

Understanding Gastric Bypass

Gastric bypass surgery, particularly the Roux-en-Y method, reroutes how food travels. A new, tiny stomach pouch is created and attached directly to the small intestine. This means food skips most of your original stomach and part of your intestine. This bypass restricts food intake and further decreases nutrient absorption.

Advantages:

Rapid initial weight loss
Long-term maintenance of weight loss
Reduction in co-morbidities like hypertension and sleep apnea

Disadvantages:

Potential for “dumping syndrome,” which can cause nausea and light-headedness after eating sweets
Risk of surgical complications and nutritional deficiencies
Lifetime commitment to vitamin and mineral supplementation

Comparing the Two

When considering the difference between gastric bypass and duodenal switch, it’s important to note that while both surgeries offer effective weight loss, they differ in complexity and lifestyle impact. Duodenal switch surgery vs. gastric bypass shows that the former generally results in more significant weight reduction but with a higher demand for nutritional management. On the other hand, gastric bypass tends to be less complex. It might be preferable for those seeking a balance between effective weight loss and a simpler post-operative lifestyle.

Find Your Path to Wellness

Deciding between a duodenal switch and Roux En Y in Baltimore is a decision that involves careful consideration of your health profile, weight loss goals, and willingness to adopt a new lifestyle. At Ascension Saint Agnes, our team is committed to forming a lasting relationship with you, guiding you through these choices with personalized care tailored to your unique health needs.

Women Having Abdominal Pain Due To Ulcer

A Closer Look at Ulcer Management Post-Gastric Bypass Surgery

Written on December 8, 2023.

For those on a weight loss journey through Roux En Y in Maryland, understanding the nuances of postoperative care is essential. Gastric bypass, a transformative procedure, can lead to significant weight loss and health improvement. Awareness of potential post-surgical complications such as ulcers is crucial for a successful recovery.

Identifying Symptoms of an Ulcer After Gastric Bypass

An ulcer after gastric bypass surgery can present a significant obstacle in the recovery process. It’s imperative for patients to recognize the signs, which might include:

An unexplained dull ache
A sharp pain in the stomach area
Gastrointestinal bleeding, evidenced by vomiting of blood or black stools

These gastric bypass ulcer symptoms are serious and, if observed, should prompt immediate discussion with your healthcare provider to mitigate risks and ensure proper healing.

The Intersection of Surgery and Ulcer Formation

The formation of a gastric ulcer after gastric bypass surgery is a complex interplay between physiological changes and external factors. Surgical alteration of the stomach’s structure can lead to an environment more prone to ulceration, especially in the presence of stressors like smoking or the consumption of alcohol. Understanding that this delicate postoperative phase requires adherence to a carefully planned diet, avoidance of NSAIDs, and strict compliance with prescribed medications is key to minimizing ulcer risks and promoting a smoother recovery.

Preventative Steps for Stomach Ulcers After Gastric Bypass Surgery

Prevention is key when it comes to gastric bypass and stomach ulcers. Patients should follow their surgeon’s guidelines on diet and medication closely. Avoiding irritants like NSAIDs and tobacco can reduce the risk of developing an ulcer.

Treatment and Care for Gastric Bypass Ulcers

In cases where an ulcer does develop, the treatment typically involves medications such as proton pump inhibitors, which reduce stomach acid and allow the ulcer to heal. Adherence to medication schedules and follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider is essential.

When to Consult Your Surgeon

If you’re experiencing any gastric bypass ulcer symptoms, it’s important to reach out to your healthcare provider promptly. In Maryland, facilities like Ascension Saint Agnes are equipped with specialists who can offer expert care and treatment options.

Joining Hands for Healing After Your Gastric Bypass

Embarking on the road to recovery after your gastric bypass surgery is a team endeavor, with you at the very heart of it. Here at Ascension Saint Agnes, we’re devoted to arming you with the necessary knowledge and personalized care to steer through the aftermath of surgery, particularly when it comes to tackling ulcers that might arise. Contact us to uncover the depth of our commitment to nurturing your health for the long haul.

A Woman Lying On A Bed Holding Her Stomach

What’s the Link Between Acid Reflux and Gastric Bypass?

Written on November 14, 2023.

Gastric bypass is arguably the most popular treatment for weight loss. However, this bariatric procedure may present a few manageable side effects, including heartburn.

Acid reflux, GERD, or heartburn occur when bile or stomach acid reverses back into the esophagus. This burning sensation in the chest is prevalent at night when sleeping after eating a heavy meal. As such, understanding the connection between acid reflux and gastric bypass can help patients cope and recover faster.

So, What Causes GERD After Gastric Bypass?

Gastric bypass surgery, just like gastric sleeve surgery, involves reducing the size of a patient’s stomach to encourage weight loss. Unfortunately, altering the digestive system increases the likelihood of acid reflux since the stomach size is reduced.

Signs of GERD after gastric bypass surgery include:

Heartburn
Throat irritation
Stomach upset
Pain swallowing
Oral acidity

Treating Acid Reflux After Gastric Bypass Surgery

Not all patients experience acid reflux after gastric bypass. Those who do can remedy symptoms through:

Medication

Various medications can provide relief for acid reflux after gastric bypass surgery. Proton pump inhibitors, for instance, reduce the production of stomach acid, preventing the likelihood of heartburn. Your doctor may also administer prokinetic agents to strengthen the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). This will provide relief from GERD.

Surgery

If medications are not effective, patients can opt for surgery. Popular options include Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) and LINX surgery. RYGB reduces the gastric pouch and extends the small intestines to limit the production of gastric juices. LINX surgery entails adding magnetic rings to the esophagus to close the gut after eating, preventing GERD symptoms.

The Stretta Procedure

The Stretta procedure strengthens the LES muscle to prevent stomach acids from reversing into the esophagus after eating. The treatment involves inserting a low-heat radiofrequency device into the esophagus to strengthen the LES muscle.

Risks of Acid Reflux After Gastric Bypass Surgery

Urgent medical attention is imperative for patients who develop GERD after gastric bypass. Untreated acid reflux can escalate and cause chronic conditions such as:

Esophageal cancer
Erosive esophagitis
Peptic strictures

Get in Touch With Us To Get Professional Advice

Overcoming the symptoms of GERD after gastric bypass is the last hurdle to attaining the ideal body size. At Ascension Saint Agnes, we can help you prevent the effects of acid reflux after surgery. Call now for a free consultation, and let us answer your questions about GERD reflux in Baltimore.

Acid Reflux After Gastric Sleeve: What You Should Now

Acid Reflux After Gastric Sleeve: What You Should Know

Written on August 28, 2023.

Many people choose to get weight loss surgery to reduce their level of obesity and improve their overall health symptoms. However, occasionally it is possible to experience heartburn after gastric sleeve and have the signs of acid reflux.

That being said, in this article let’s talk about whether or not there is a connection between gastric sleeve and heartburn and how to manage it if you find yourself experiencing those symptoms.

GERD After Gastric Sleeve: The Connection

When undergoing gastric sleeve surgery, sometimes you can have symptoms associated with acid reflux. GERD specifically is a chronic condition where acid reflux occurs consistently.

When stomach acid moves up into your esophagus (the tube that connects your throat to your stomach) it becomes inflamed and you will feel mild discomfort or even pain. You may even have difficulty swallowing.

Why Does Heartburn After Gastric Sleeve Surgery Occur?

Gastric sleeve surgery is bariatric surgery — also called weight loss surgery. Since a portion of your stomach is removed, your new stomach is narrower.

This does help you lose a significant amount of weight. However, any operation is going to have some side effects. One of the potential side effects is GERD after bariatric surgery. Not every patient will develop GERD, but some may develop GERD due to the shape of the sleeve and how your esophagus responds.

How To Deal With Acid Reflux After Bariatric Surgery

Heartburn after your weight loss surgery should only last around 2 to 4 hours. If it persists, consider taking an antacid or other medication prescribed by your doctor.

If it persists for several days, then you should come in for a checkup. It is uncommon for heartburn to last more than a few hours. But it also depends on your diet, exercise, and other lifestyle routines.

So, the best way to deal with symptoms is to watch what you eat, drink plenty of fluids, and stay in communication with your doctor. After all, every patient is unique.

Symptoms Of GERD After Weight Loss Surgery

Signs of acid reflux after gastric sleeve include:

Throat irritation
Acidity in your throat or mouth
Pain swallowing
Stomach irritation

Symptoms are usually mild. It is uncommon to experience horrible heartburn after gastric sleeve surgery or other bariatric surgery.

Manage Your Weight Today

Reach out today for a free consultation. Learn your options when it comes to losing weight, managing any potential side effects, and living the healthy lifestyle that you deserve.

The new you is just around the corner. So, let’s answer any questions you have about GERD Reflux in Baltimore and help you lose the extra weight sooner rather than later.

Gastric Bypass is a safe and effective procedure with a low rate of potential complications.

Written on August 25, 2023.

Due to recent events in the news and pop culture, we have had some patients awaiting their operative procedures with specific queries regarding incidents of bowel obstruction and their management. We wrote this review to educate our patients and remind them that we are available to answer any questions by contacting us directly.

We were not involved in the case that was in the news. What we do know, is that the patient in question was having pain in their abdomen for several months and was taking pain medication. We also know that this patient died from a bowel obstruction. Unfortunately, taking pain medications without investigation of the cause of the pain can mask symptoms. With any bowel obstruction, time to diagnosis and treatment is of utmost importance, because once the obstruction becomes tight enough, it can stop blood flow and cause the bowel to die. If caught before that point, it can be easily treated with an urgent operation that can be lifesaving.

There are several causes for bowel obstruction. It can occur due to inflammation in the abdomen or due to a hernia that can catch a loop of bowel and pinch it off, it can also occur due to adhesions (scar tissue) that can develop secondary to inflammation or surgical manipulation. Among symptoms of bowel obstruction are abdominal distention, recurrent vomiting and absolute constipation with loss of appetite. An imaging study such as an Abdominal X Ray or a simple CT-scan can diagnose the condition or rule it out. That is why we recommend lifelong follow up, instruct our patients to report abdominal pain and see their surgeons immediately.

While in the past abdominal procedures used to be performed with a long incision to gain access to the abdominal contents, in the last 25 years most procedures have been performed with minimal invasive surgical (MIS) techniques including Laparoscopic, Endoscopic and Robotic. These techniques have reduced the adhesion formation and incidents of bowel obstruction remarkably.

To put it into perspective the incidents of bowel obstruction in someone who has had no abdominal surgeries is 300 in 100 000 in the population with that figure doubling in patients who had abdominal surgery.

Surgeons have been performing Gastric Bypass for morbid obesity for the past 65 years and since 2000, it is almost exclusively done by minimally invasive approach. This surgical method proved to be very safe and dramatically increased Gastric Bypass acceptance by patients.

Every major abdominal surgery has some inherent risks and should be performed by highly trained surgeons in a setting of a certified comprehensive bariatric center to minimize risks. Bariatric surgical society and American College of Surgeons run a credentialing and quality assurance program named MBSAQIP that maintains a National database of all bariatric procedures that tracks both short and long-term outcomes. According to this database, immediate postoperative outcomes of bariatric surgery are very good compared to other elective surgical procedures with risk of complications of 2-4% and mortality of 0.1% (predominantly due to medical and not surgical causes). Of an estimated 250,000 bariatric procedures performed in 2022, Gastric Bypass was done in 30% of those cases.

Over the years Gastric Bypass has demonstrated effectiveness with 30-45% total weight loss, low failure rate compared to other bariatric procedures, and was the first therapy to demonstrate that Diabetes can be put in remission. Frequency of long-term side effects (like intestinal obstruction, marginal ulcer and reactive hypoglycemia or severe “dumping syndrome”) are rare and can be effectively treated once detected early. That is why a life-long follow up with your bariatric surgeon is recommended

Incidence of intestinal obstruction after Gastric Bypass is 1-2% and it can develop early or later after the surgery. Effective treatment for this condition is usually operative intervention done with the minimally Invasive technique (small incisions) and expeditious surgery is key to ensure good outcomes.

With Gastric Bypass, surgeons transect the stomach and bowel and their attachment (mesentery) in order to re-configure the GI tract which creates spaces or mesenteric defects that can result in internal herniation causing bowel obstruction after surgery. There are two different schools of thoughts among bariatric surgeons related to the technique of Gastric Bypass formation. One approach is to leave all these mesenteric defects wide open thinking that herniation is infrequent and wide-open space is unlikely to cause bowel strangulation and it can be reduced easily if needed.

Another approach is to close all these mesenteric defects with permanent sutures at the time of Gastric Bypass procedure. Systematic analysis of studies demonstrated that this closure technique both in a long and short-term lower the incidence of internal herniation by 75%, occurrence of small bowel obstruction by 70% and need for reoperation by 72%.

Since the start of our program in 2001, it was our policy to close all these defects systematically in every case. Ascension Saint Agnes Bariatric program surgeons have performed more than 5,000 primary and revision Gastric Bypasses and we can recall only 2 cases when we had to resect small bowel for strangulation and both patients made a full recovery. Being a referral center, we have treated hundreds of patients for intestinal obstruction after Gastric Bypass done at other hospitals.

In conclusion, we believe that Gastric Bypass is a very safe and effective procedure that results in a 50% reduction of all-cause mortality and in increasing life quality years. Studies have shown a remarkable resolution and reduction of risk in over 80 medical conditions and 15 cancers. We also encourage lifelong follow up with your surgeon, and communication of any issues that you are experiencing.

At Ascension Saint Agnes Bariatric Surgery program we are available with an around the clock (24 hours/ 7 days) direct coverage by one of our Specialized, well trained and experienced surgeons to attend to any complication that may arise in a timely and expedient manner.

Can You Get A Lap Band After a Gastric Bypass?

Written on July 14, 2023.

You deserve to know what your options are when it comes to maintaining your ideal weight. However, a lot of people have questions about lap band surgery specifically. A common inquiry is, “Can you have a lap band after gastric bypass?”

When it comes to losing weight, there are various types of bariatric surgeries that you should consider, including a Roux En Y in Maryland.

However, you should always consult with a weight loss doctor first. If you reach out to Ascension St. Agnes, you can be connected with a weight loss surgeon right away.

In this article, let’s talk about whether or not that’s possible and how to proceed if you’re interested in having both surgeries.

Can You Have Lap Band Surgery After Gastric Bypass?

Yes, luckily, you can get lap band surgery, even if you’ve had gastric bypass in the past. This will be called a band over bypass. It’s not incredibly common, but it is possible for skilled surgeons to do this.

You may want a lap band after your gastric bypass because you weren’t losing as much weight as you planned on. Therefore you’re going to lose additional weight and hit your goals faster.

Keep in mind you should follow any advice of your weight loss surgeon regarding diet or exercise. Therefore, you could achieve your targets with small adjustments without surgery.

How Does Lap Band Post-Gastric Bypass Work?

Now that we know the answer to “Can you have gastric bypass after lap band?” is yes, let’s talk about how it works. In essence, the surgeon will cut a series of small incisions in your abdomen.

From here, they’ll place an adjustable gastric band around your stomach pouch. This will be filled with saline solution to construct your stomach pouch.

The end result is that your stomach pouch now holds even less food than it could before. Ultimately, you’ll feel full faster, eat less, and start dropping the pounds sooner rather than later.

Speak With Bariatric Surgeons In Maryland

Get help with bariatric surgery in Maryland, such as a gastric bypass today. If you’re looking for a bariatric surgery that can help you take off excess weight, improve your energy levels, and manage your health, then reach out to our friendly experts.

You deserve to live life on your own terms. We’ll also address any additional questions or concerns you may have, like gastric bypass after lap band failures. Let’s begin your new journey now.

Gastric Bypass & Gastric Sleeve: Recovery Time To Get Back To Work

Written on May 10, 2023.

When it comes to losing weight, bariatric surgery is one of the most common ways to fulfill your new healthy vision. However, a lot of people naturally wonder about gastric sleeve recovery time to get back to work.

So keep reading and discover how soon after bariatric surgery you can go to your job again. That way you can properly plan your procedure while still hitting your weight loss goals.

Read More: Tips For Bariatric Recovery

Gastric Bypass & More: Recovery Time Off Work

Let’s address some common questions about recovery time for bariatric surgeries, like:

After a gastric sleeve, how much time off work do I need?
What is VSG recovery time off work in terms of the process?
How soon after VSG can I go back to work in terms of a timeline?

Obviously, you want to get back to work as soon as possible. After all, you need to make an income and you may enjoy your coworkers or other aspects of your career.

Still, you need to give yourself around one to two weeks, and even as much as two to four weeks before returning to work.

If your job has strenuous activity included, you may even want to hold off as long as six weeks. This is especially true if you have to lift over 25 pounds. Ultimately, though, the answer to “how long off of work do you need to take after bariatric surgery” is to talk to your surgeon.

They will understand your situation on the deepest level and be able to advise you on the best course of action. Keep in mind that it’s not as simple as clocking in and resuming work as normal. There are some additional factors to keep in mind.

Other Challenges When Returning Back To Work After Gastric Sleeve

Now let’s talk about the process of recovery and therefore some of the challenges that come with it:

Sticking To Your Diet

When you’re back in the workplace, you may be around different foods that you’re not supposed to be eating during your recovery. Try to avoid temptation by not spending a lot of time in the break room or lunch room.

Exercise Plans

Work takes up a large portion of your day. Therefore, it may be harder to find the time to get into the gym or otherwise perform your exercises.

But this is an important aspect of keeping your weight off after your surgery and promoting blood circulation so that you heal faster. So if you need to add exercise in the morning or evening, then do that during off-work hours.

Energy Levels

Be aware of your body and what kind of energy levels you maintain throughout the day. You should be taking vitamin and mineral supplements, eating healthy, and avoiding high carbohydrate foods that may cause an energy crash.

Considering Gastric Sleeve? Contact Ascension St. Agnes Today

Getting weight loss surgery in Maryland can be a scary experience if you don’t know who to talk to. But we can answer “What is gastric bypass surgery and how does it work” among other pressing questions.

Our expert and compassionate surgeons will guide you through every step of the process from start to finish. We’ll ensure you feel comfortable, know your options, and recover as quickly as possible. You deserve to take the weight off and keep it off.

Can You Eat Popcorn After Gastric Bypass?

Written on March 12, 2023.

Gastric Sleeve Surgery in Baltimore is one of the best ways to ensure you can lose weight in a short amount of time while sustaining your weight goals for life.

As with any weight loss procedure, it’s important to maintain proper diet and nutrition as well. This is especially true leading up to and immediately after your operation.

Otherwise, you might experience unwanted side effects or lengthen the time it takes to heal fully. That being said, a popular question that we get at MD Bariatrics is, “can I eat popcorn after gastric sleeve?”

This is a natural question as it’s one of those comfort foods that most people love. So let’s talk about popcorn after gastric sleeve surgery and what the recommendations are.

Can You Eat Popcorn After Gastric Sleeve?

In general, the answer to, “can I eat popcorn after gastric bypass”, is no. That might be disappointing to hear, but it’s better to avoid this kind of food rather than deal with the consequences.

So in order to understand why popcorn is not recommended after weight loss surgery, let’s touch upon the kinds of foods that you should avoid in general:

Foods to Avoid: fatty foods, sugary foods, empty carbs like bread, pasta, or chips.

The above list categorizes food by its calories or macronutrients. It’s important to avoid fatty or sugary foods as a focus. Read a more complete list here.

Obviously these will harm your weight loss goals, but they’re also just not very good for the body in the first place. Aside from that, understand that your stomach is healing once you undergo the operation. Your stomach will be significantly smaller and thinner.

Therefore you need to focus on eating foods that are easy on your digestive tract.

Additional Foods to Stay Away From

You should also avoid foods such as spicy food, foods that are tough to chew (popcorn), incredibly fibrous foods (like some fruits or veggies), nuts, seeds, and rice.

It’s not that you can’t enjoy any of these foods, it’s that you need to introduce them slowly as your body adjusts to the surgery.

Additional Diet Tips After Bariatric Surgery

To summarize so far, the answer to “can bariatric patients eat popcorn?” is usually no. But there may be exceptions.

When Can I Eat Popcorn After Gastric Sleeve?

Only your weight loss doctor can answer this with detail. It could be weeks, months, or even years. It all depends on your personal health profile and recovery process.

Your bariatric surgeon will give you a schedule and recommended food groups. However, in addition to generally starting on a liquid diet and progressing to soft and then solid foods, there are some other tips to keep in mind:

Break your food up into smaller meals
Chew your food fully
Don’t eat until you’re full (stop eating before that point)
Eat your protein first.
Prioritize drinking water and fluids first
Avoid alcohol

Baltimore Gastric Sleeve Surgery

If you’re ready to start loving how you look and feel, then gastric sleeve surgery could be for you. Contact the experts at Ascension St. Agnes today.

Understand how this life-changing transformation can help you stay slim, fit, and healthy for the long run.

That way, whether you simply want to be able to keep up with your kids, have more energy for events, or regain the youthful appearance you had in your 20s, you can do so.

6 Foods to Avoid After Your Gastric Bypass

Written on January 17, 2023.

Gastric bypass is a major weight-loss surgery that helps reduce the amount of food you can eat and how much nutrition your body absorbs.

The amount of weight you may lose depends on your diet and exercise plan.

To ensure you meet your post-surgery weight loss goals, here are some food items to avoid:

1. High-fat Meats

After your gastric bypass, high-fat meats like bacon, sausage, bologna, and salami should be avoided entirely. Not only are these types of meat fatty and high in calories, but they can also cause digestive issues due to their rich fat content. Eating high-fat meats can lead to more stomach discomfort and diarrhea.

2. Sugary Foods

When it comes to bariatric surgery, you must avoid sugary foods. Sugary foods can spike your blood sugar levels, which can cause weight gain and other health issues. Many of such foods are also high in calories and low in nutritional value. Examples of sugary foods to avoid include candy, cakes, pastries, cookies, ice cream, sodas, and other sugary drinks.

3. Alcohol

Gastric bypass involves a drastic change in how your body absorbs food and drinking alcohol after the procedure is not recommended. It can be challenging for your body to process the toxins in alcoholic beverages, which could lead to liver damage and serious health risks over time. Additionally, alcohol has a high-calorie content which can contribute to weight gain if you do not account for them in your daily caloric intake. If you choose to drink alcohol after gastric bypass, you must limit yourself to no more than 1-2 servings per day and avoid high-calorie beverages such as beer or wine coolers.

4. Dry Foods

Dry, crunchy foods are not recommended after gastric bypass surgery because they can be challenging to digest. Dry-roasted nuts, crackers, and pretzels should all be avoided, as these can create a blockage in the stomach or intestine. Additionally, some dry cereals, such as oatmeal, could cause nausea and vomiting if your stomach has not healed completely. Stick to softer, less processed foods that are easier to digest.

5. Caffeinated and Carbonated Beverages

Caffeinated and carbonated beverages should be avoided after gastric bypass surgery. This includes caffeinated coffee or tea, energy drinks, soda, and sparkling water. Caffeine can cause dehydration and increase the risk of dumping syndrome for those who have post-gastric bypass surgery. Carbonated beverages may cause bloating and discomfort.

6. Dairy Products

High-fat dairy products, such as ice cream and cheese, should be avoided after gastric bypass surgery. Dairy products are more likely to cause nausea, vomiting, and dumping syndrome due to their high-fat levels. Try to choose low-fat alternatives such as low-fat or non-dairy milk and yogurt. Also, many dairy products are high in sugar, so it is essential to read the nutrition labels carefully. Call Ascension Saint Agnes Hospital for the best Roux-en-Y in Maryland. We offer a range of surgical services with excellent outcomes and take every precaution to ensure safety and comfort. Our Maryland Bariatric Surgery team will also provide comprehensive after-care instructions and advice regarding lifestyle changes.

Gastric Bypass Surgery Diagram Showing Stomach Alterations

How Long Does Gastric Bypass Surgery Take? Your Hospital and Recovery Timeline

Written on April 20, 2022.

If you are considering gastric bypass surgery in Baltimore, you likely have a lot of questions. One of the most common questions is “how long does gastric bypass surgery take?”

This blog post will answer that question and give you an idea of what to expect during your hospital stay and recovery timeline. Keep in mind that every patient’s experience is different, so be sure to speak with your doctor about your specific situation.

Surgery Prep

Our explanation on how long gastric bypass is starts in the hours before your procedure. The day of your surgery, you will show up at the hospital and start your surgery prep. This usually involves getting changed into a hospital gown and meeting with your surgical team. They will go over the procedure with you one more time and answer any final questions you may have. You will also be given a sedative to help you relax before surgery.

The Surgery Itself

Gastric bypass surgery usually takes between two and four hours, depending on the individual case. Once you are under anesthesia, the surgeon will make small incisions in your stomach and intestines. Then, they will reroute a portion of your digestive system so that food bypasses part of your stomach and goes straight to your small intestine. After this is done, they will close up the incisions with stitches or staples.

Focus on your finances now. Read Does Insurance Cover Gastric Bypass Surgery?

The Recovery Room

After surgery, you will be taken to the recovery room where you will be closely monitored. You will likely have a tube in your nose to help you breathe and an IV in your arm to give you fluids and pain medication. You will stay in the recovery room for one to two hours until you are awake and stable enough to be moved to a regular hospital room.

Your Hospital Stay

Most people stay in the hospital for two to three days after surgery. During this time, you will continue to receive IV fluids and pain medication. You will also start on a liquid diet, which gradually progresses to soft foods as your body heals. The dietitian will work with you to make sure you are getting enough nutrition during this time.

You will also have regular check-ups with your surgeon to make sure everything is healing properly. Before you are discharged, they will go over your post-surgery diet and activity level. They will also give you a list of follow-up appointments to schedule.

Recovery at Home

After you leave the hospital, you will continue to recover at home. It is important to take it easy during this time and not do too much too soon. You should avoid lifting anything heavy or exercising for at least six weeks. Gradually increase your activity level as your body heals.

It is normal to feel tired and have some pain during this time. Be sure to take your pain medication as prescribed and get plenty of rest. You should also drink lots of fluids and eat a healthy diet.

You will likely have follow-up appointments with your surgeon during this time. They will check your incisions, weight, and overall progress. Be sure to keep these appointments and let your surgeon know if you are having any problems.

Ready to schedule your procedure? Talk to us about gastric bypass and gastric sleeve surgery in Baltimore, contact us today.