Gastric Bypass Surgery
Gastric bypass surgery continues to be widely regarded as the gold standard in weight loss surgery. Let’s learn why!
At BMI of Texas in San Antonio, we’ve helped thousands of patients undergo this life-changing procedure with consistently excellent outcomes. Gastric bypass surgery, originally developed in 1968, continues to be widely regarded as the gold standard in weight loss surgery, especially in Texas. At BMI of Texas in San Antonio, we’ve helped thousands of patients undergo this life-changing procedure with consistently excellent outcomes.
- First, a small stomach pouch—about the size of an ounce—is created to restrict the amount of food a patient can consume.
- Second, the small intestine is rerouted to bypass a portion of the digestive tract. This reduction in absorption, paired with lower food intake, accelerates weight loss and significantly improves metabolic health, particularly blood sugar control.
At BMI of Texas, all of our gastric bypass surgeries are performed using the da Vinci Surgical System, a robotic platform that enhances surgical precision and control while ensuring a minimally invasive experience, reduced complication rates, and a smoother recovery for patients. As a metabolic surgery, robotic gastric bypass not only drives rapid weight loss but also reduces systemic inflammation and supports long-term diabetes remission.
One common side effect is dumping syndrome, often triggered by refined sugars. While uncomfortable, it naturally encourages healthier eating habits and reinforces the lifestyle changes needed for sustained success. Because part of the small intestine is bypassed, lifelong supplementation is necessary to prevent deficiencies. Patients are advised to take daily multivitamins, calcium, vitamin B12, and other nutrients to maintain optimal health.
To learn more about gastric bypass surgery or to understand the cost of robotic gastric bypass surgery, reach out to the experts at BMI of Texas in San Antonio. We’re here to help you take the next step in your weight loss journey with world-class care and personalized support.
Before Surgery
What should you consider before having gastric bypass surgery?
Gastric bypass surgery isn’t typically the first step for losing weight. It is often considered when other methods, like lifestyle changes, have not resulted in sustained weight loss. Candidates usually have a body mass index (BMI) of 35 or higher. For example, someone 5 feet 4 inches tall weighing 235 pounds or more may be eligible for gastric bypass surgery.
To ensure success, patients must embrace a new lifestyle post-surgery. This includes:
- Increasing protein intake
- Avoiding refined carbohydrates
- Managing dumping syndrome (found with sugary foods)
You’ll need to eat smaller, frequent meals, and take multivitamins, calcium, and B12 supplements for life.
Stress management is also essential post-surgery. If stress eating was a challenge before, learning new coping mechanisms is key. At BMI of Texas in San Antonio, our Behavioral Health Specialist is available to guide you through both pre, and post-surgery challenges.
Before considering gastric bypass surgery, weigh the potential benefits and lifestyle changes. It’s crucial to be physically and psychologically prepared for the surgery and the new habits that follow.
Gastric Bypass Benefits
Gastric bypass surgery is a powerful tool for accelerating weight loss, offering numerous health benefits for adults. This gastric bypass procedure changes your body in ways that make weight loss faster and more manageable. The long-term benefits of gastric bypass surgery reduces morbidity and mortality rates by preventing years of weight-related health issues.
Key benefits for undergoing gastric bypass surgery include:
Rapid and significant long-term weight loss
Reduced risk of physical and mental health problems
Safe and effective results
Proven long-term success and history of positive outcomes
Recovery
After gastric bypass surgery, patients typically stay in the hospital for one to two nights. The focus immediately after surgery is on walking frequently and doing breathing exercises with an incentive spirometer. We provide blood-thinning medication to prevent clots. A few hours post-surgery, patients can start sipping liquids.
Post-op Day One: Transition from IV fluids to oral intake and liquid pain medicine. With our specialized anesthetic, patients usually experience minimal pain, and some may even go home the same day.
Day Two: Most patients are ready for discharge. However, if you need more time, that’s completely fine. Everyone’s recovery is different, and we prioritize your comfort.
For more information about gastric bypass surgery costs or to discuss your options at BMI of Texas in San Antonio, call us today!
