The recent growth of bariatric surgery in recent times mirrors the scaling problem of obesity in the world, so much so that in countries like US and Canada, the problem of obesity has reached epidemic proportions. Having tried several diet plans and work outs in vain, most obese people are resorting to bariatric surgery to reduce weight and save their health.
For people who are obese, gastric bypass is the most recommended surgical procedure. Gastric bypass is a type of bariatric procedure designed to reduce weight in the person by manipulating the food intake and altering the digesting process subtly to facilitate weight loss. Any person with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 and above or someone with a BMI of 35, with one or more serious illness is a good candidate for gastric bypass surgery.
Variations in Gastric bypass:
Currently, there are two techniques available in gastric bypass:
• Roun-en-Y gastric bypass: This is the most commonly used gastric bypass procedure. The surgery can be performed either by using the traditional method, where one long incision is made or through laparoscopy where several small incisions are made. In this surgery, the stomach is made smaller by creating a small pouch in the top portion of the stomach using staples or a plastic band. The stomach is connected to the middle portion of the small intestine. The food by passes the stomach and the upper portion of the small intestine and instead enters the middle portion of the small intestine directly. The smaller stomach feels hunger pangs less frequently and the bypassed small intestine absorbs fewer calories. This renewed digestive process results in weight loss eventually.
Generally, Laparoscopic procedure is preferred since it involves lesser scarring and lets the patent recover quickly.
• Biliopancreatic Diversion Bypass: This is an open surgery where one long scar is made. In this procedure, portions of the stomach are removed and the stomach is connected to the distal illium. So, when the food is ingested, it bypasses the duodenum and jejunum and reaches the final segment of the small intestine directly. The procedure does achieve weight loss, but is seldom used since there is a higher risk for nutritional deficiencies.
Recovery and care after Gastric Bypass surgery:
Most people require two to five weeks of recovery, before returning to normal activities. The patient’s stomach will be swollen for a number of days after surgery. Discomfort and soreness in the stomach region is common for a couple of weeks following surgery. The doctor will prescribe medicines to help mange discomfort after surgery.
Patients who have undergone gastric bypass surgery can lose up to 50% of the body weight within 6 months of surgery. The patient keeps losing weight up to a year after surgery. However, some patients complain of nutritional deficiencies and excessive weight loss following surgery. But, healthy levels of weight can be maintained by following a proper diet.
The amount of food intake is naturally restricted through gastric bypass surgery. Also, your body is capable of absorbing less after surgery. So, it is important to include food rich in proteins and vitamins in your food. For those who have crossed 40, fiber rich foods are important. The consumption of water should be reduced, but not become too less. Once you fill your stomach with water, the amount of food it can take will be further reduced.
Cost of Gastric Bypass Surgery:
Gastric bypass surgery typically runs from $18,000 to $35,000. Check if you can get the cost covered under your medical insurance. But if you are uninsured or underinsured, and looking for quality treatment options at low costs, medical tourism is probably the best option for you.
Patients from the US, UK and Canada are increasingly travelling to medical tourism destinations like India where A class medical treatments come at a surprisingly low price tag. You can also combine your obesity treatment with a recuperating holiday while you are on a medical holiday.
Obesity has been linked to a number of deadly diseases. Getting rid of excess body weight at the earliest should be a priority for anyone who wants to lead a healthy life. With a promising weight loss surgery like gastric bypass and good treatment options like medical tourism, there should be no reason to delay your weight loss plans.
Bookmark/Share:
Related Stories
