Is a Gastric Bypass Right for You?

Obesity is a serious condition that can lead to the development of a host of potentially fatal diseases. If extra pounds are a real concern in your life, coming up with a solid solution for shedding them once and for all can benefit you almost immediately. While diet and exercise are always advised, sometimes more aggressive measures are needed to ensure that weight is lost and that it stays off. This is where gastric bypass surgery can come into play.

Gastric bypass surgery is an intensive procedure that is designed to make the stomach smaller while allowing food to bypass a portion of the small intestine. In doing so, the surgery limits a person’s ability to not only intake food, but also absorb its calories. The end result is a permanently altered digestive system, but also a highly effective weight loss measure.

Gastric bypass procedures are considered higher risk than their lap band counterparts. That said, they do have a track record of helping those who undergo them shed up to 80 percent of their excess weight in a single year. While they are not reversible, these procedures can quickly reduce the risks associated with obesity.

So, how can you tell if a gastric bypass procedure is right for you? Here are some things to consider:

• Is your health in jeopardy – If you’ve been told you’re at high risk for heart disease, diabetes or other complications of obesity, it might be time to consider a bariatric procedure. Whether gastric bypass is the best choice will be between you and your surgeon.
• Have all other options failed – If you have tried diet and exercise to no avail, it might be time to consider surgical intervention. Keep in mind, diet and exercise will become important supports in the days and weeks following surgery. Just because a bariatric procedure is performed doesn’t mean the need to get active and eat right goes away.
• Has your doctor recommended it – If so, it is probably time to consult with a reputable bariatric surgeon. He or she may suggest a bypass or a host of other options for producing lasting results.

Gastric bypass surgery is serious business, but it can produce tremendous results. Be sure to speak with your doctor and examine all the options before making a decision.

About Author

One of the most experienced weight loss surgeons in the country – Dr. Nick Nicholson

• along with a full staff of surgeons, nurses and other experienced clinicians, help patients reverse obesity with LAP-BAND, Gastric Bypass, Sleeve Gastrectomy and Revisions.