FAQ

How long will I be in the hospital?

Hospital stays have been averaging three days. Surgery is performed on the day of admission. On the day following surgery, an x-ray study is performed to ensure that there is no leak from the intestinal connections. If the study is normal, clear liquids are started at this point. If all is well, you will be discharged the following morning.

What is Morbid Obesity?

Morbid obesity occurs when a person is severely overweight (100 lbs over their Ideal Body Weight). It is an extremely dangerous, life-threatening disease. The morbidly obese often suffer from many health problems such as diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, heart problems, breathing and respiratory problems, acid reflux (gerd), arthritis, sleep apnea, urinary stress incontinence, gallbladder disease, gout, psychosocial impairments, fertility problems and cancer.

How Much Weight Will I lose with Gastric Bypass Surgery?

Most weight loss will occur during the first 12 to 18 months following surgery. During this time most Gastric Bypass patients will lose 50 to 70% of their excess body weight. Some patients may lose more than this. Around 20% of patients reach their ideal weight. Exercise and eating healthy foods is important for successful weight loss with the gastric bypass surgery. By following the dietary guidelines established for gastric bypass patients most people can get to within 30 - 40 lbs of their ideal body weight.

How Successful is Surgery in Controlling Morbid Obesity?

Studies show that there is significant long-term weight loss in over 80% of patients who actively participate in an after-care support program. These patients exercise regularly (at least four days per week), focus on eating healthy foods, limit snacking, and drink non or low calorie liquids regularly.

How Long Has the Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass Procedure Been Performed and Why Are There Differences In The Way It Is Performed by Various Surgeons?

The Roux-en-Y procedure has been performed for over 20 years though performing it "as a minimally invasive procedure" is relatively new. Most surgeons perform the same basic operation though some differences do exist. There is some debate on which procedure is best, though most surgeons rely on their own experience to guide them.


How Important Is An Aftercare Program?

Active participation in an effective after-care program increases the chance for successful permanent weight loss to approximately 87 percent. An after-care program is designed to help gastric bypass patients cope with the adjustments necessary to develop and maintain new eating and lifestyle habits.

What are the Risks Associated With Gastric Bypass Surgery?

All operations carry some risks. Obesity surgery is a relatively safe procedure in the hands of an experienced bariatric surgeon. The mortality rate is about 0.5%. The risk of serious complications (heart attack, ,anastomotic leaks, pulmonary embolism, etc) occurs in 1% of patients. Wound infections and bowel obstructions occur in about 2% of patients, while hernias, ulcers, adhesions gallstones, vitamin deficiencies and other mild complications occur in somewhere between 10 and 20% of all patients.

What is "Dumping"?

Dumping is a process that occurs in many gastric bypass patients if they eat too much sugar or fat. It can cause nausea, vomiting, cramps, diarrhea, feelings of weakness, sweating and other symptoms. Dumping can help patients avoid overeating both sweets and foods with high fat content. Eating a diet high in Protein and low in fats and sugars can help control "Dumping".

When Can I Resume Sexual Activities?

Because sexuality and sexual practices vary widely, it is important to discuss this issue with your surgeon and follow his/her guidelines. Usually patients can return to normal sexual activity once their incision is healed. It is not uncommon for patients to experience a drop in desire for the first few weeks following surgery.

Will I Be Able To Get Pregnant After Gastric Bypass Surgery?

It is best to avoid pregnancy for the first 12 to 18 months following gastric bypass surgery. Because overall health improves after gastric bypass surgery, patients who become pregnant after the maximum weight loss period stand a higher chance of having a healthy pregnancy. It is important to make sure your obstetrician is aware of your gastric bypass surgery so you can be properly monitored during pregnancy.

What Is Your Policy On Smoking?

All patients are encouraged to quit smoking as far in advance of surgery as possible. Smoking increases the risk of post-operative lung problems, reduces the rate of healing, and can interfere with blood supply to the healing tissues and wound site.

What Are The Minimum And Maximum Ages for Gastric Bypass Surgery?

Most bariatric surgeons won't perform the surgery on anyone under 18 years of age. As long as a patient is physically able to withstand the operation there is no real upper age limit.

You can watch Dr. Roe's technique elsewhere on this site.

Baltimore Bariatrics
1001 Cromwell Bridge Rd.
Towson. MD 21286 | (410) 583-0123
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