Gastric bypass isn't a cure for obesity, but it can provide the assistance you need to develop a healthier lifestyle if other weight loss options haven't been successful. Statistics have shown that gastric bypass surgery can help patients lose up to 90 percent of their excess body weight. The procedure works by limiting food intake and suppressing appetite. If you suffer from an obesity-related medical condition, you may be able to greatly improve your physical health by having gastric bypass surgery. After the procedure, nearly 80 percent of patients with hypertension and 90 percent of patients with diabetes no longer need to take their medication. People with conditions such as asthma, arthritis, and sleep apnea also see an improvement in their well-being after surgery. A qualified bariatric surgeon can evaluate your medical history to see if you would benefit from gastric bypass surgery.
As with any other medical procedure, you must consider the pro and cons of gastric bypass before making your decision. About one in 300 people die from gastric bypass. This is a less than one percent risk, but it is still an important consideration. Only you can decide if the potential rewards outweigh the risks of bariatric surgery.
Failure to lose weight is the most common complication from gastric bypass surgery. However, this is most often attributed to the patient's inability or unwillingness to make the necessary lifestyle modifications. For example, patients who consume milkshakes and other high calorie liquids or persist in snacking between meals often fail to see a significant weight loss after the procedure.
