FAQs: Life After Gastric Bypass Surgery
Will the doctor leave a drain in after surgery?
Most laparoscopic gastric bypass patients will have a small tube to allow drainage of any accumulated fluids from the abdomen. This is a safety measure, and it is usually removed one week after the surgery. Generally, it produces no more than minor discomfort.
What is a hernia and what is the probability of an abdominal hernia after surgery?
A hernia is a weakness in the muscle wall through which an organ (usually small bowel) can advance. Approximately 20% of patients develop a hernia after an open gastric bypass procedure – much less with laparoscopic. Most of these patients require a repair of the herniated tissue. The use of a reinforcing mesh to support the repair is common.
Will I lose hair after surgery? How can I prevent it?
Many patients experience some hair loss or thinning after surgery, gastric bypass patients more than lap band patients. This usually occurs between the fourth and the eighth month after surgery. Consistent intake of protein at mealtime is the most important prevention method. Also recommended are a daily zinc supplement and a good daily volume of fluid intake. Most patients experience natural hair regrowth after the initial period of loss.
What happens to the lower part of the stomach that is bypassed during gastric bypass surgery?
Typically, the stomach is left in place with intact blood supply. In some cases it may shrink a bit and its lining (the mucosa) may atrophy, but for the most part it remains unchanged. The lower stomach still contributes to the function of the intestines even though it does not receive or process food – it is necessary to absorb Vitamin B12 and contributes to hormone balance and motility of the intestines in ways that are not entirely known.
How big will my stomach pouch really be in the long run?
This can vary by surgical procedure and surgeon. In the Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, the stomach pouch is created at one ounce or less in size (15-20cc). In the first few months it is rather stiff due to natural surgical inflammation. About 6-12 months after surgery, the stomach pouch can expand and will become more expandable as swelling subsides. Many patients end up with a meal capacity of 3-7 ounces.
What will the staples do inside my abdomen? Is it okay in the future to have an MRI test? Will I set off metal detectors in airports?
The staples used on the stomach and the intestines are very tiny in comparison to the staples you will have in your skin or staples you use in the office. Each staple is a tiny piece of stainless steel or titanium so small it is hard to see other than as a tiny bright spot. Because the metals used (titanium or stainless steel) are inert in the body, most people are not allergic to staples and they usually do not cause any problems in the long run. The staple materials are also non-magnetic, which means that they will not be affected by MRI. The staples will not set off airport metal detectors.
Can Weight Loss Surgery Help Other Physical Conditions?
According to current research, weight loss surgery can improve or resolve associated health conditions.
- High Blood Pressure. At least 70% of patients who have high blood pressure are able to stop taking medications and have a normal blood pressure typically two to three months after surgery.
- High Cholesterol. More than 80% of patients will develop normal cholesterol levels two to three months after the operation.
- Diabetes. More than 90% of Type II diabetics obtain excellent results, usually within a few weeks after surgery: normal blood sugar levels, normal Hemoglobin A1C values, and freedom from all medications, including insulin injection.
- Sleep Apnea Syndrome. Dramatic relief of sleep apnea occurs as patients lose weight. Many report that within a year of bariatric surgery, their symptoms were completely gone, and they had even stopped snoring completely – even their spouses agreed.