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Frequently asked questions
Q: How much weight will I lose?
A: Many patients experience rapid weight lose in the first 6 months. Two to three pounds per week is ideal, but in the initial post-op period up to a stone a month is achievable.
Q: What is ‘dumping syndrome'?
A: Dumping syndrome is the description of intolerance of certain foods high in refined sugar and fat. This is because these types of undigested foods enter the small intestine very quickly from the newly formed stomach (pouch). Some patients experience symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, weakness, sweating, diarrhoea and pain.
Q: How is the surgery performed?
A: The procedure is performed by keyhole surgery - this means less time in hospital (3-6 nights) and promotes quicker recovery. Gastric bypass surgery not only reduces the amount of food but also the amount of calories absorbed is greatly reduced. Because this is a one off procedure no further surgical intervention should be necessary.
Q: How long will I be in hospital?
A: For open operations, most patients are discharged on the third or fourth post-operative day. Patients who have the laparoscopic procedure can go home on the second or third post-operative day.
Q: What are the advantages of gastric bypass?
A: For the seriously obese, the benefits of the gastric bypass procedure very much outweigh the risks. In general:
• 75% of patients are expected to lose 75 to 80% of their excess body weight, most of which is lost in the first two years following surgery.
• Major improvements in risk factors for heart disease and cancer.
• Around 70-80% of patients with hypertension will be off medication and cholesterol levels will fall.
• Most type II diabetics will be cured.
• There will be major improvements in a whole range of weight-associated conditions. These could include sleep apnoea, asthma, joint pain, arthritis, reflux, fatigue and shortness of breath.
• Patients report less depression, improved self-esteem and confidence along with an overall increased sense of well-being.
Q: What are the risks of gastric bypass?
A: As with any surgery, there are operative and long-term complications and risks associated with gastric bypass, including:
| • Bleeding (hemorrhage) | • Marginal ulcers |
| • Infections | • Pulmonary emboli |
| • Deep vein thrombosis | • Dehiscence |
| • Leaks from staple line | • Injury to the spleen |
| • Complications due to anesthesia and medications | |
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