Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass Procedure
Expected weight loss 75-80% of excess weight

Description of the Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass Procedure

Most common weight loss surgery performed in the U.S. and considered the gold standard of weight loss surgery.  Dr. Feng creates a small, upper stomach pouch about 1 ounce in size, dividing it from the lower stomach. This significantly restricts the volume of food that can be eaten. He then divides the small intestine to create a Y-shaped section to attach to the stomach pouch. The lower stomach and a portion of the small intestine is bypassed.  This reduces the amount of calories that can be eaten.  The procedure minimally limits the nutrients the body can absorb because of the bypass.

Click Here to watch an interactive video of the Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass Procedure

Advantages of Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass Procedure

• May be more effective in improving obesity-related health problems than restrictive procedures.
• Minimal patient effort to lose and maintain long-term weight loss.
• Rapid weight loss. 

Disadvantages of Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass Procedure

• Patients may experience long-term nutritional deficiencies.
• May require lifetime use of special foods and medications.
• Decreased absorption of calcium may bring on osteoporosis and related bone diseases.
• “Dumping Syndrome” reaction usually occurs when meals high in sugars, carbohydrates, or fats are consumed.

Risks of Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass Procedure

• Vitamin and mineral deficiencies
  
• Gallstones
  
• Leakage
  
• Infection
  
• Anemia
  
• Bowel Obstruction
  
• Dumping syndrome
  
• Abdominal hernia
  
• Combined operations are more likely to lead to complications then restrictive operations
  
• Weight regain