At Allure Weightloss, we offer several bariatric procedures – the gastric bypass surgery is one of the most popular options for patients in the United Kingdom. But what exactly is the Roux-en-Y Bypass and how does it impact the weight and lifestyle of patients? In this blog we will aim to look at these questions, especially in relation to the sleeve and gastric balloon programmes that we also offer.
What is a Gastric Bypass?
A GMC registered consultant bariatric surgeon will change the structure of a patients stomach, ultimately leaving the patient with less room and leaving them feeling fuller for longer. This allows them to make lifestyle changes which are essential to lose weight and lower body mass index (BMI). The average weight loss an individual that undergoes roux-en-y gastric bypass surgery is 70% of their excess weight.
A gastric bypass fundamentally alters the way in which you digest food by creating a much smaller ‘upper pouch’ of stomach that is connected to straight to your intestines. This is distinctly different to the gastric sleeve, notably in that no part of your stomach is actually removed from the body. This weight loss surgery, like a gastric sleeve, is permanent and cannot be reversed.
The surgery itself usually lasts around 4 hours, whilst full recovery can take up to 8 weeks. Following a gastric bypass, a patient must make the necessary lifestyle changes that ensure their long-term weight loss and overall health.
Alternatives to the Gastric Bypass
As we’ve touched on already, a key alternative to the bypass is the gastric sleeve, sometimes referred to as a sleeve gastrectomy. During the operation the bariatric surgeon will look to remove between 75 – 80% of the patient’s stomach in total. This surgery is typically performed laparoscopically in order to minimise scarring. As you can expect, the removal of so much of your stomach would change the way and amount you eat and can lead to rapid weight loss. In both the cases of the bypass and sleeve, a patient should expect the aftercare support of a bariatric nurse and specialist dietitian.
An alternative to bariatric surgery is our gastric balloon programmes. These programmes are distinctly non-surgical and temporary, taking up around 60% of the patient’s stomach and reducing the hunger hormone, ghrelin to help patients in losing weight. Typically patients can expect to lose 10 – 18% of their total bodyweight depending on the chosen balloon and dedication the programme overall. We have two gastric balloons to choose from including the BiB Balloon andObera 12 month gastric balloon.
Allure Weightloss is proud to be a CQC registered provider of bariatric surgery and gastric balloon programmes in England and Wales, ensuring our patients receive an extremely high-standard of care from start to finish. For more information regarding any and all of our programmes, get in touch with our team of medical weight loss specialists today.
