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The Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y Gastric bypass is both a restrictive and a malabsorptive operation. The restrictive component involves the stomach being reduced in size. This smaller stomach is then reconnected or bypassed to the small intestine. Having a gastric bypass will help speed weight loss by making it difficult to eat too much food at one time and to feel satisfied after very small meals. Also digestion and

absorption of calories are limited by bypassing a portion of the small intestine and delaying food from mixing with the digestive juices.

  After a gastric bypass, the volume of the new, smaller stomach can hold is roughly the size of an egg or about 1 quart to about 1 ounce, or 2 tablespoons. Over time, the stomach pouch will stretch until it can hold 4 to 8 ounces, or about 1/2 to 1 cup, at a time. The size of the opening created between the stomach and small intestine is smaller too, which slows the rate at which food is emptied from the stomach into the small intestine.

  Gastric bypass is usually performed only after many other methods of weight loss have been tried and failed. However, the surgery is not an end in itself. By working closely with us to start a program of new eating habits, you will ensure that weight loss is safe and successful. A regular, simple oexercise program and psychological support are often recommended to create a better self-image and a whole new attitude to food.

  With Gastric bypass, as much as 60% of the excess weight may be lost in the first year. Many complications of obesity such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and joint pain will be quickly alleviated.