GASTRIC BYPASS

What Is Gastric Bypass?

For those struggling to lose weight, often it is not just the extra weight that is causing problems to their health. Being obese and morbidly obese puts individuals at a higher risk for chronic depression, sleep apnea, fatty liver, joint pains and destruction, heart problems, and type 2 diabetes. If you have tried to lose weight in the past and are struggling with weight-related health issues, gastric bypass surgery may be a solution for you. Gastric bypass is designed to assist patients with a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or more or 35 if a preexisting weight-related health condition exists. Gastric bypass can aid in rapid weight loss by removing a section of the small intestine to redirect food and digestive juices, which will limit the number of calories absorbed. To learn more about gastric bypass in Gulfport, MS and to determine if it is right for you, contact Dr. Donald Balder to request a consultation. The team at Mississippi Institute of Weight Loss & Gulf Coast Aesthetics is here to help you find real solutions to help you lose weight and guide you on the right path with our expertise, advice, and support every step of the way.

What Should I Expect with A Gastric Bypass?

During the consultation process, it is crucial to determine if you are a good candidate for gastric bypass surgery. Your medical history, along with previous weight-loss attempts and failures, will be reviewed. Various factors will come into play to determine if you are a candidate, which will be thoroughly discussed during your consultation. You will also undergo a psychological evaluation, blood work, and additional testing before being cleared for surgery. Once it has been determined that you are a good candidate and you are cleared for surgery, you can begin making preparations.

Gastric bypass surgery is a laparoscopic procedure performed in about an hour. Dr. Balder will make small incisions in your abdomen to allow the instruments to be inserted. A small stomach pouch is created, and the small intestine is cut and connected to the new gastric pouch. This new pouch will only be able to hold less than a cup of food, whereas the normal-sized stomach holds 4 – 6 times more. The abdominal incisions will be closed, and you will be taken to a post-operative room for recovery.

After you are discharged from the hospital, you should go home and rest. You may have some discomfort in the surgical site, which should be eased with the prescription pain medication prescribed. The surgical site pains resolve quickly, and return to work and normal activities can often happen in a few days to a week. You will receive specific instructions regarding "bariatric vitamins", "bariatric diet", and restrictions from Dr. Balder before your procedure. It is essential to follow all of the instructions provided to you and contact our office with any questions or concerns you may have.

Gastric Bypass Diagram

Solution for Obesity

If you have been trying to lose weight and are looking for a solution to increase your efforts and bring your weight loss to the next level, gastric bypass surgery may be just what you are looking for. Many of our patients who undergo gastric bypass experience a tremendous improvement in their livelihood and have a boost in confidence. Contact us today to discuss your options for having gastric bypass in the Gulf Coast region of Louisiana. Dr. Donald Balder and his team at Mississippi Institute of Weight Loss & Gulf Coast Aesthetics want you to find success in your weight loss journey and live a life that is happier and healthier.