Gastric Bypass (Roux-en-Y)

Gastric bypass surgery, also called Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, is one of the most effective bariatric procedures for significant weight loss and long-term weight management. It changes how your stomach and small intestine handle food, helping you feel full faster and absorb fewer calories. 

Banner Health’s bariatric experts provide advanced surgical care along with support for healthy lifestyle changes before and after surgery. 

How gastric bypass surgery works 

Gastric bypass is usually performed laparoscopically or robotically using small incisions. These approaches typically mean: 

• Shorter hospital stays 
• Less pain and smaller scars 
• Faster recovery 

During the procedure: 

1. A small stomach pouch about the size of an egg is created using surgical staples 
2. A section of the small intestine is attached to the pouch 
3. Food bypasses the rest of the stomach and first part of the small intestine 

This leads to restriction (less food fits in the stomach) and malabsorption (fewer calories and nutrients are absorbed). 

Who is a candidate for gastric bypass? 

Your provider may recommend gastric bypass if: 

• Your BMI is 40 or higher, or 
• Your BMI is 30 to 40 and you have a weight-related condition such as 
  • Type 2 diabetes 
  • Sleep apnea 
  • High blood pressure 
  • Heart disease 

Insurance requirements may vary. A full medical evaluation and mental health screening ensure that surgery is a safe choice. 

Use a BMI calculator to learn whether you are in a healthy weight range. 

Benefits of gastric bypass surgery 

People often choose gastric bypass because it may help: 

• Lose more total body weight than some other procedures 
  (About 30% to 35% within 2 years on average) 
• Improve weight-related health conditions 
  (such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease and sleep apnea) 
• Reduce symptoms of acid reflux or GERD 
• Increase quality of life and mobility 
• Reduce long-term health risks linked with obesity 

This procedure does not involve implanted devices like gastric band surgery. 

Possible risks and complications 

Gastric bypass is safe when performed by experienced surgeons, but risks can include: 

• Longer recovery time than some other bariatric procedures 
• Leaks where the stomach or intestine was joined 
• Ulcers 
  (more common in people who smoke or take NSAIDs) 
• Vitamin and mineral deficiencies 
  (lifelong supplements are required) 
• Internal hernia or intestinal obstruction 
• Dumping syndrome 
  (rapid emptying of food into the small intestine) 
• Infection, bleeding or blood clots 

Your care team will explain your individual risks and how to lower them before and after surgery. 

What to expect after surgery 

Gastric bypass is a lifelong commitment to healthy habits. 

To support healing, you will gradually progress through diet phases: 

1. Clear liquids 
2. Full liquids 
3. Pureed and soft foods 
4. Regular healthy foods 

You will learn which foods your body tolerates best and how to avoid dumping syndrome. Regular follow up is essential to monitor nutrition, weight goals and overall health. 

Comparing weight loss surgery options 

Gastric bypass is one of several bariatric procedures. Others include: 

• Sleeve gastrectomy 
• Duodenal switch 
• Revisional surgery for previous procedures 

Your surgeon will help you choose the option that best fits your health needs and goals. 

Expert bariatric care at Banner Health 

Successful weight loss is about more than surgery. Banner Health provides: 

• Bariatric surgeons 
• Obesity medicine specialists 
• Nurse practitioners and nurses 
• Registered dietitians 
• Behavioral health support 
• Pulmonology, cardiology and sleep medicine specialists as needed 

We guide you from preparation through lifelong support to help you reach and maintain your goals. 

Accredited Bariatric Center of Excellence 

Banner Health is recognized by the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery for high standards of safety and quality. 

Take the next step 

Considering weight loss surgery? We are here to help you explore your options. 

Watch our free informational video.