The procedure involves creating a small pouch at the top of the stomach, effectively reducing its size and limiting the amount of food you can eat at one time. The small intestine is then divided, and the lower part is connected to the new stomach pouch. This causes food to bypass a portion of the small intestine, which leads to reduced calorie and nutrient absorption.

Gastric bypass surgery not only restricts food intake but also alters gut hormones, reducing hunger and improving satiety. This leads to a golden period after surgery — a window of time when your body becomes accustomed to less food, resulting in healthier eating habits. The procedure is highly effective for long-term weight loss and can help improve or resolve obesity-related conditions such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and sleep apnea.

Benefits of Gastric Bypass Surgery

Gastric bypass surgery offers many benefits that can lead to a higher quality of life. These benefits include:

  • Substantial long-term weight loss: Typically, you can expect to lose 30–35% of their total body weight within 12–18 months after surgery.
  • Sustained results: High success rates in maintaining weight loss long term.
  • Improved appetite control: Changes in gut hormones reduce hunger and increase satiety.
  • Golden period for new habits: Surgery can help you adapt to healthier eating behaviors, supporting lasting results.
  • Improvement or resolution of conditions: This can include type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and sleep apnea.
  • Diabetes benefits: 78% of patients experience type 2 diabetes remission, with overall improvement in related health conditions.
  • Relief from gastrointestinal symptoms: Surgery can lead to improvement in gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or chronic heartburn.