Gastric Bypass in Birmingham, AL
Gastric Bypass is a type of bariatric surgery. This two-step procedure combines restriction and malabsorption to result in significant weight loss in patients who are obese. If you are interested in undergoing bariatric surgery, consider Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery. We perform laparoscopic gastric bypasses at our facility in Birmingham, Alabama.
Gastric Bypass Surgery Near You
During gastric bypass surgery, alterations will be made to your stomach and small intestine. The first part of the surgery involves cutting and stapling the stomach to make a small pouch. This prompts restriction, limiting the amount of food a patient can intake. The second part of the surgery involves cutting the lower part of the small intestine and attaching it to the new stomach pouch. This prompts malabsorption, allowing food to bypass the lower stomach and the upper segment of the small intestine.
At Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery, we perform gastric bypass laparoscopically. Laparoscopy is a type of operation in which small incisions are made to the abdomen, and tube-like instruments are utilized by the surgeon with the aid of an internal camera. Not only does this minimally invasive procedure avoid large incisions, but it allows patients to recover quickly and experience less pain in the process. Gastric bypass surgery takes between 60 to 120 minutes. Patients will be required to stay in the hospital for one to two days post-operation.
Advantages & Disadvantages of Gastric Bypass
Like all types of weight loss surgery, there are advantages and disadvantages to gastric bypass surgery. The advantages are:
- Gastric Bypass has been performed since 1967, making it the form of bariatric surgery with the longest track record in the United States.
- Patients will experience rapid weight loss in the first six months. An average of 66% of weight loss is reported to occur in the first 6-8 months after gastric bypass surgery.
- This is the best weight loss option to cure diabetes, high blood pressure, and sleep apnea.
- Patients who undergo gastric bypass tend to lose more weight than patients who undergo gastric band or gastric sleeve surgery.
- It is effective for long-term weight loss. Ten years post-operation, the average patient will have lost 70% of their excess body weight.
The disadvantages of gastric bypass surgery are:
- Longer recovery times.
- The procedure is not considered reversible.
- The staple line along the stomach may begin to leak.
- Patients are required to take nutritional and mineral supplements for the entirety of their lives on account of malabsorption.
- Patients may experience minor weight gain between 2 to 5 years post-operation.
How much does gastric bypass cost?
Most insurance companies will not cover the cost of bariatric surgeries. When paying out of pocket, the cost of gastric bypass surgery at Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery is about $15,999. We understand that this is a big expense, and we are here to help in any way we can. Contact our team at BMI to discuss your loan and payment options.
Gastric Bypass Surgery in Birmingham, Alabama
Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery is a purpose-built facility in Birmingham, Alabama, for general and bariatric surgery. When you come to BMI for gastric bypass surgery, you can be certain you are getting the highest quality care. Our bariatric surgeon, Dr. Jay C. Long, is board-certified in general surgery and is professionally trained in minimally invasive surgery. Our staff is here to provide you with support and answer any questions you may have.
If you live in or near Birmingham and are interested in gastric bypass surgery, contact our team to schedule a consultation!
