Gastric Bypass as the leading treatment for the morbidly obese has seen it’s popularity soar over the last few years. For some patients it has literally been life savings and for others it has been yet another unsuccessful attempt at weight loss. While Gastric Bypass Woodlands have proven to generally be safe, it is still surgery and comes with an array of risks. Even after the weight loss following surgery, it requires a lifelong commitment in life style changes and eating styles.
To be considered a candidate for Gastric Bypass Woodlands, a patient must meet several of the following criteria.
They must have a body mass index (BMI) that exceeds 40. This can be calculated using a BMI calculator found online.
They must have a body mass index (BMI) greater than 35, with an obesity related health issue that can be corrected or improved by losing weight. These include diabetes, sleep apnea, severe arthritis, and more.
They must be able to demonstrate that they have tried and failed at previous traditional weight loss approaches.
They are ready to adhere to permanent lifestyle changes.
They understand that all surgery comes with risks.
While the main benefit of Gastric Bypass Woodlands would be weight loss, the additional benefits include reducing or controlling diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, and even severe arthritis. When having Gastric Bypass Woodlands, patients can expect to lose up to 60% of the excess weight. Studies have shown that people report an improved quality of life following surgery, as well as an improved quantity of life, with people living longer than those who do not have the surgery.
While most patients do not have any problems, approximately 10% of people experience wound infections, digestive issues, ulcers, or additional bleeding. Less than 5% of people experience blood clots, heart attacks, leaks in their intestinal connections, serious infections or serious bleeding. While the stay from surgery is only anticipated to be 2 – 3 days, complications can increase the amount of time the patient is in the hospital. Death, while extremely rare has occurred in a few cases. Gastric Bypass is not for everyone, and the only one that can really commit is the one that is having the surgery.
