What is Gastric Bypass?

Do I qualify for weight loss surgery?

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Have you tried diet and exercise without sustainable weight loss? Are you tired of false promises of new weight loss “apps”, “meds” and “injectables’”? Have you put honest attempts at weight loss without meaningful results? Do you feel it is getting harder and harder to maintain your weight year after year? Do you want to get rid of your diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea?
If you answered “yes” to any of the above questions, then you are in the right place! And more importantly, you are not alone!
I have often been asked “Doctor R! I want to move forward with weight loss surgery and I do not want any delays! Can you help me?” and the answer is Yes! We CAN help!
Please take a few minutes to carefully read the Frequently Asked Questions below. It will help you understand the potential reasons behind your weight issues and seek proper treatment.
Sincerely,

Do I qualify for weight loss surgery?

In-Person OR Video Call

Appointments available this week

zero co-pay consultation with PPO insurance

What is a revisional weight loss (bariatric) surgery?

Revisional surgeries are surgical procedures designed to address issues related to previous procedures such as gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, or gastric banding.

Revisional surgeries are complex and highly specialized procedures that only a small percentage of bariatric surgeons are capable of doing these procedures properly.

I had bariatric surgery in the past but never lost any weight. Do I qualify for revisional surgery?

Yes!

Chances are that your original weight loss surgery was not done properly. This is one of the most common reasons encountered for patients who fail to lose substantial weight following initial surgery. The issues vary, yet the most common encounters are incomplete removal of the gastric fundus (sleeve gastrectomy), very large gastric sleeve, large gastric pouch (bypass), slipped LAP-BAND®, or short Roux limb (bypass).

Luckily, most of these anatomical errors are easily identifiable by simple investigations such as barium esophagram and upper GI endoscopy, and, more importantly, they are fixable.

If your diabetes did not resolve following weight loss surgery and your weight loss was insignificant, there is a very good chance that your initial surgery was not performed correctly.

Do I qualify for weight loss surgery?

In-Person OR Video Call

Appointments available this week

zero co-pay consultation with PPO insurance

I had bariatric surgery in the past, lost a significant amount of weight after surgery, but regained it almost entirely back. Do I qualify for revisional surgery?

Yes!

There are several anatomical and behavioral reasons that can collectively result in weight regain following initial weight loss.

Anatomical issues, such as a dilated stomach pouch, gastro-gastric fistula (connection between the new and old stomach), dilated gastro-jejunostomy, and dilated jejuno-jejunostomy, are all correctable.

We work closely with you to fine-tune your diet and exercise habits.

Torrance Bariatric Institute, a concierge and patient-centered program, utilizes a multifaceted approach to both of the above-mentioned issues.

We craft an individualized “game plan” for each individual, as one size never fits all!

How does revisional surgery work?

Revisional surgeries work via mechanisms similar to the original bariatric surgeries, relying on a combination of anatomical (anatomical correction, i.e. fixing what is wrong) and metabolic (hormonal) changes in the body.

Can my sleeve gastrectomy be revised without conversion to gastric bypass?

It depends!

If your sleeve is large and dilated or if the gastric fundus (partially or in its entirety) is left behind, then yes! Your sleeve can be trimmed and revised.

However, if your sleeve is not dilated and you have a lot of reflux, then perhaps conversion of sleeve to bypass is more appropriate.

How much do I lose after revisional surgery?

The answer to this question greatly varies among individuals, mainly due to the underlying causes of weight regain.

In simple terms, the more we correct (correcting what is wrong), the more you lose.

If your sleeve is large and dilated or if the gastric fundus (partially or in its entirety) is left behind, then yes! Your sleeve can be trimmed and revised.

However, if your sleeve is not dilated and you have a lot of reflux, then perhaps conversion of sleeve to bypass is more appropriate.

Do I qualify for weight loss surgery?

In-Person OR Video Call

Appointments available this week

zero co-pay consultation with PPO insurance

How Gastric Bypass Works

Gastric bypass is a type of weight-loss surgery that helps people who are severely obese to lose weight. The procedure involves making changes to the digestive system to restrict food intake and alter the way the body absorbs nutrients.

During gastric bypass surgery, the surgeon creates a smaller stomach pouch by dividing the stomach into two sections, using staples or by vertical banding. This reduces the amount of food that can be eaten at one time, leading to a feeling of fullness with smaller meals.

The surgeon then connects the newly created small stomach pouch directly to the small intestine, bypassing a portion of the stomach and the first part of the small intestine. This bypass limits the absorption of calories and nutrients from the food consumed.

By reducing the stomach’s capacity and altering the digestion process, gastric bypass surgery helps individuals eat less and feel satisfied with smaller portions. Additionally, the procedure may affect hormones that regulate hunger and fullness, further contributing to weight loss.

It’s important to note that gastric bypass is a major surgery and should be considered after careful evaluation, consultation with medical professionals, and a comprehensive understanding of its potential risks and benefits.

Do I qualify for weight loss surgery?

In-Person OR Video Call

Appointments available this week

zero co-pay consultation with PPO insurance

Effect of Gastric Bypass on hunger hormones

Gastric bypass surgery can have significant effects on hunger hormones. One of the key changes is a decrease in the production of GLP, often referred to as the “hunger hormone.” GLP is primarily secreted by the stomach and stimulates appetite. After gastric bypass surgery, the portion of the stomach that produces GLP is bypassed or removed, leading to reduced levels of this hormone.

Additionally, gastric bypass surgery can alter the production and release of other hormones involved in hunger and satiety regulation, that are released by the intestines in response to food intake and contribute to feelings of fullness or satiety. These hormones tend to increase after gastric bypass, which can help reduce hunger and promote weight loss.

Overall, these hormonal changes resulting from gastric bypass surgery can help reduce feelings of hunger, increase satiety, and contribute to weight loss. However, it’s important to note that individual responses to surgery can vary, and lifestyle changes, including a healthy diet and regular exercise, remain essential for long-term success.

Do I qualify for weight loss surgery?

In-Person OR Video Call

Appointments available this week

zero co-pay consultation with PPO insurance

Is Gastric Bypass Safe?

Gastric bypass surgery, like any surgical procedure, carries risks. However, it is generally considered safe and effective for individuals who meet the criteria and have carefully considered the potential benefits and risks. The procedure is typically performed by experienced surgeons in specialized centers. It’s important to consult with a qualified healthcare professional to discuss your individual circumstances, as they can provide more personalized information and guidance regarding the safety and suitability of gastric bypass surgery for you.

Will my diabetes be cured after gastric bypass?

Gastric bypass surgery can have positive effects on type 2 diabetes for many patients. It often leads to significant weight loss, which can improve insulin sensitivity and blood sugar control. While it can result in remission or improvement of diabetes in some cases, it’s important to remember that individual outcomes may vary. It’s crucial to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and to monitor your condition closely throughout the process.

Do I qualify for weight loss surgery?

In-Person OR Video Call

Appointments available this week

zero co-pay consultation with PPO insurance

Why choose Torrance Bariatric Institute

At Torrance Bariatrics we provide concierge, individualized and tailored care to our patients, and one patient at a time. More importantly your surgery will be performed at a MBSAQIP accredited facility, where the highest quality of care according to industry standards is guaranteed. Our surgeons have performed thousands of successful surgeries. Patients travel from across the country to have their surgeries (whether initial or revision) at Torrance Bariatrics. Our satisfied patients and their success stories are testament to our difference.