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For more information, we invite you to attend a free seminar with members of our staff, or visit our resources page for answers to our most Frequently Asked Questions about weight-loss surgery.
Hear from people who’ve made it happen.
Beginning a new phase of your life can be intimidating. We invite you to hear from people who have chosen weight-loss surgery and enjoyed success. Find out more about their journeys.
About Weight-Loss Surgery
Gastric bypass was introduced in 1966 for the treatment of morbid obesity. It was patterned after a partial gastric (stomach) resection used to treat duodenal ulcers. One of the side effects of that operation (Billroth II Gastrectomy) was low body weight, a desirable side effect. However, other less desirable side effects, also commonly occur.
Some of these are related to the bypass of the first part of the small intestine (duodenum) where most of the absorption of iron and calcium normally takes place. Iron deficiency is common after any operation that bypasses the duodenum. This may cause low blood counts or anemia. It is more likely when chronic blood loss is present, such as in women with heavy menstrual flows. This anemia can usually be treated effectively with iron supplements; however, it can require restoration of duodenal function.
Metabolic bone density loss (osteoporosis) is common in women after menopause. This may appear earlier in life or be more severe after bypass of the duodenum.
Patient Testimonials
Gastric Band Surgery
Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Band
A band is placed around the upper end of the stomach creating a small pouch (approximately the size of an egg) which restricts the amount of food a patient can comfortably eat at one time. The band also delays ingested food from emptying into the larger area of the stomach, causing the patient to feel full for a longer period of time. Once leaving the pouch, digestion proceeds normally. This is a purely “restrictive” procedure that does not include any “malabsorptive” effects.
Please take two minutes to watch a video about Gastric Band Surgery
Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass
This procedure reduces the size of the stomach to about the size of a small egg. In addition, the passage of food through the small bowel is also altered. This results in a primarily “restrictive” operation that also includes a mildly “malabsorptive” component.
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) recognized this surgery as an effective treatment for severe obesity. This operation has proven long-term efficacy in helping the patient to achieve and maintain weight loss.
Please take two minutes to watch a video about Gastric Bypass Surgery