What is a mini gastric bypass?
A mini gastric bypass is another approach to bariatric surgery that is technically easier to perform, of shorter duration and has a lower risk of some complications.
The goal is the same as traditional gastric bypass surgery: to reduce the size of the stomach as well as bypassing a stretch of the intestines. This decreases the amount of food that can be consumed and causes some malabsorption of calories, resulting in weight loss.
Is a mini gastric bypass right for you?
Since the operation time is shorter and the technique is simpler to perform, this means that your risk of complications during the surgery is reduced.
The goals for both surgeries are the same, and they show similar results in terms of weight loss and recovery.
Bypass surgery results in better diabetic control compared to sleeve gastrectomy, which may be an important factor for you.
Each surgeon has their own opinion on which approach is more effective, and studies comparing the traditional Roux-en-Y gastric bypass to a mini gastric bypass have found little difference in outcomes between the two.
Gastric Bypass Preparation
In the lead up to surgery, you can expect to make some diet and lifestyle changes to ensure the best outcomes. We will work with you to develop the right plan. This may include:
- Quitting smoking.
- A healthy diet for several weeks or months, followed by a low-calorie diet for 2-3 weeks before your surgery.
- Counselling to support the psychological aspects of the process.
- Preparing your home to support post-surgical recovery.
Meet the team
Our team of specialists are ready to help you with every aspect of the surgery, including preparation and recovery
As a team of experienced surgeons, dietitians, specialist doctors and support staff, we are committed to giving you the best possible care.
This includes clear communication and a comprehensive overview of all the steps that are involved in your weight loss journey.
Also, our team of experienced dietitians will give you tailored dietary advice, so you can optimise your weight loss and overall health after your bariatric procedure.
The surgery
In the mini gastric bypass, the stomach is still divided using staples but no part of the stomach is removed. The traditional gastric bypass method is also slightly modified; there is only one new intestinal connection, called the anastomosis, instead of the traditional two.
There are several benefits to this process:
- The mini gastric bypass is reversible.
- Instead of 2 new connections in the traditional bypass, only one is needed. This reduces the risk of certain complications, such as a leak.
- It has a lower risk of internal hernias.
However, it does result in a slightly increased risk of experiencing bile reflux after the operation.
After the surgery
After the surgery you will remain in hospital for several days. When you return home, there will be a rest and recovery period of around 1-2 weeks. Depending on your profession, you may be able to start work 2-3 weeks after your operation.
You can expect some pain, especially at the site of the incisions, and restricted movement during this time.
You may also experience “dumping syndrome”, which occurs due to high sugar intake and causes tummy cramps, light-headedness, nausea, and sweating.
You will need to follow a special diet to slowly adjust and return your body to normal food over a period of 6 weeks.
A new way of doing things
While the surgery itself will result in positive weight loss outcomes, this will need to be accompanied by ongoing lifestyle changes to ensure good health for the future. Attention will need to be paid to diet and exercise, ensuring that the body receives the nutrients it needs with the now-reduced digestive activity.
How will your life be different?
Here are the outcomes we see for our patients, as well as the long-term changes that happen with commitment to a new lifestyle:
- Increased physical capabilities, such as being able to climb in and out of cars and generally enjoying greater mobility.
- Improvements in other illnesses, including resolution of diabetes and improved blood pressure control.
- Improved fertility, however, it is important to take extra precautions and avoid pregnancy during the first 2 years.
- Better mental health with less depression and anxiety.
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About the author
Mr Siva Sundararajan | Bariatric & General Surgeon
Mr Siva Sundararajan is a qualified general and obesity surgeon. His main areas of interest are weight loss surgery, gall bladder and hernia surgery. To ensure that the best possible care is provided to his patients, he has undertaken extensive training in the UK, Australia and Europe.