Gastric bypass surgery, specifically the Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, is a bariatric procedure that changes how your stomach and small intestine handle food. The surgery both restricts how much you can eat and reduces calorie absorption, making it one of the most effective surgical options for significant, sustained weight loss.
It is especially effective for patients with severe obesity and those with obesity-related health conditions such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, or sleep apnea.
Performed laparoscopically under general anesthesia
The stomach is divided into a small pouch (about the size of an egg)
The small intestine is rerouted, bypassing a portion to reduce absorption
Food goes directly from the pouch into the lower part of the small intestine
Digestive enzymes still reach food further down the tract
The procedure typically takes 2 to 3 hours, and patients stay in the hospital for 2–3 days.
Rapid and substantial weight loss
Improves or resolves type 2 diabetes in many cases
Reduces blood pressure, cholesterol, and other health risks
Decreases appetite and hunger hormones
Long history of safety and effectiveness
Encourages long-term behavioral change
Most patients lose 60–80% of their excess weight within the first 12–18 months.
You may be a suitable candidate for gastric bypass if:
You have a BMI of 40 or higher, or 35+ with obesity-related conditions
You have tried diet, exercise, and medications without success
You are committed to long-term lifestyle changes
You have no serious medical condition that would make surgery unsafe
You are seeking a metabolic solution, not just physical weight loss
Your medical team will evaluate your full health history before recommending surgery.
While both are effective, there are key differences:
Gastric bypass involves malabsorption, while sleeve gastrectomy only restricts intake
Bypass has a longer track record for type 2 diabetes resolution
Gastric sleeve is slightly simpler, but bypass may offer greater long-term results in some patients
Bypass may carry a slightly higher risk of nutrient deficiencies, requiring diligent supplementation
After surgery, patients will follow a structured post-operative plan that includes:
Liquid and pureed food stages followed by soft and solid foods
Daily vitamin and mineral supplements (including B12, calcium, iron, and vitamin D)
Regular blood tests and follow-ups to monitor progress and prevent deficiencies
Lifestyle support, including dietary guidance, physical activity, and emotional care
Most weight loss occurs in the first 12–18 months
Patients who follow guidelines often maintain 60–70% of their weight loss long-term
Nutritional discipline is essential to prevent deficiencies or weight regain
Psychological and behavioral support helps patients adjust to life after surgery
One
Local anesthesia
Immediately
7 days
None
* For informational purposes only, be sure to consult your doctor for diagnosis and treatment.
Most patients lose 60–80% of their excess weight within the first 12 to 18 months.
Some improvements occur within days or weeks, especially for type 2 diabetes, often before major weight loss even begins.
Technically, yes — but it is rarely reversed due to complexity and risk. It is considered a permanent procedure.
Yes, but it is recommended to wait 12–18 months until your weight stabilizes and nutritional levels normalize.
Yes. Daily supplementation is mandatory to prevent deficiencies due to reduced nutrient absorption.
You’ll stay in the hospital for 2–3 days, with 2–4 weeks of rest before resuming full activity. Light walking is encouraged right away.
Dumping occurs when sugary or fatty foods move too quickly into the intestine, causing nausea, sweating, and diarrhea. It is avoided by eating slowly, choosing low-sugar foods, and avoiding large meals.
If dietary guidelines are ignored, weight regain is possible. Ongoing follow-up, discipline, and lifestyle adjustments are essential for long-term success.
Your team will guide you through pre-operative tests, a possible liver-shrinking diet, and may recommend stopping smoking or certain medications. Psychological and nutritional evaluations are also part of the process.
Most patients experience reduced hunger, especially in the first year, due to hormonal changes. Over time, some hunger may return, but it is usually much more manageable.
Some patients develop loose or sagging skin after significant weight loss. Plastic surgery, such as body contouring or abdominoplasty, is an option after weight stabilizes, typically 12–18 months post-op.
Some patients develop loose or sagging skin after significant weight loss. Plastic surgery, such as body contouring or abdominoplasty, is an option after weight stabilizes, typically 12–18 months post-op.
It’s advised to avoid alcohol, especially in the first year. After surgery, alcohol is absorbed faster, and tolerance is reduced, increasing the risk of side effects and weight regain.
Gastric bypass often improves or resolves acid reflux, making it a better option than gastric sleeve for patients with severe GERD.
The mini gastric bypass is a newer, simpler variation with one connection instead of two, offering similar weight loss but slightly different risks and absorption profiles. Roux-en-Y remains the most studied and widely performed.
Significant lifestyle changes and rapid body transformation can affect self-image, mood, or eating behaviors. Many patients benefit from ongoing psychological support or counseling during and after their journey.
Most patients return to desk work within 2 to 3 weeks. Physically demanding jobs may require 4 to 6 weeks off. Walking and light movement are encouraged from the first day.
Follow-ups are typically scheduled at 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, 1 year, and annually thereafter. These visits track weight, nutrition, and emotional health.
Some hair thinning can occur around months 3–6 due to rapid weight loss and hormonal changes. It is usually temporary and managed with proper nutrition and supplements.
Medipol University Hospital, being the justifiably proud of Medipol Education and Health Group in Turkey and in the world, resulting in this spirit, is a health complex having JCI standards accepting patients from all over the world.
TEM Avrupa otoyolu göztepe çıkışı no:1, 34214 Bağcılar/İstanbul
Copyright © 2025 All Rights Reserved.