Dr Ashok Gunawardene

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240 Hoppers Ln, Werribee VIC 3030

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Gastric Bypass Surgery Werribee St Vincent’s Private Hospital

Overview

Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass (RYGB)

Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass (RYGB) is a minimally invasive bariatric surgery aimed at supporting weight loss in individuals with severe obesity by reducing stomach size and altering digestion. This page details the procedure, its benefits, risks, and expected recovery, following the latest clinical guidelines and evidence-based practices. Northern Surgical Care, led by a registered specialist general surgeon, offers consultations to evaluate and manage conditions requiring RYGB.

In addition, we provide One Anastomosis Gastric Bypass (OAGB), also known as Mini Gastric Bypass.

Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass (RYGB) Werribee St Vincent's Private Hospital

What this Weight Loss Surgery Involves

  • Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass Werribee St Vincent’s Private Hospital (RYGB):
    • Conducted under general anaesthesia with laparoscopic techniques.
    • The procedure creates a small stomach pouch (20-30 mL) by separating the stomach, which limits food intake.
    • A section of the small intestine is divided and connected to the stomach pouch (the “Roux limb”), bypassing part of the stomach and upper small intestine to reduce nutrient absorption. A second anastomosis allows digestive juices to mix with food by reconnecting the bypassed intestine.
    • Generally takes 2-3 hours, based on the patient’s anatomy and other clinical factors.

Designed for patients with severe obesity, the gastric bypass procedure typically applies to those with a BMI of 35 or higher, or 30 or higher with related health conditions such as type 2 diabetes or hypertension, to assist with weight loss. Eligibility is determined by an in-depth medical and psychological evaluation.

Gastric Bypass (RYGB) Surgery Werribee St Vincent's Private Hospital

Benefits

  • Notable weight loss: Most patients typically achieve 25-35% total weight loss within 1-2 years, based on clinical evidence.
  • Improvement in obesity-related health conditions: This procedure may improve or resolve conditions like type 2 diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnoea, or dyslipidemia, with remission of diabetes seen in up to 80% of patients, though results vary.
  • Minimally invasive: Laparoscopic surgery results in smaller scars, less discomfort after surgery, and a faster recovery time compared to open surgery.
  • Metabolic benefits: Alters gut hormones to reduce appetite and enhance glucose metabolism, promoting weight loss and diabetes management.
  • Enduring outcomes: Studies suggest long-term weight loss and health improvements when lifestyle changes are maintained.

Outcomes rely on following postoperative lifestyle changes, including diet and exercise. Benefits are reviewed during consultation to help with informed decision-making.

Risks

Like any surgical procedure, RYGB carries potential risks, which are reviewed during consultation. These include:

  • General Surgical Risks:
    • Bleeding or infection at the incision sites or inside the body.
    • Adverse reactions to anaesthesia.
    • Blood clots (e.g., deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism).
  • Procedure-Specific Risks:
    • Anastomotic leak: A rare occurrence (1-2%) where the connection sites leak stomach or intestinal contents, which could lead to infection or necessitate additional surgery.
    • Dumping syndrome: Occurs when food moves too quickly into the small intestine, leading to symptoms like nausea, sweating, or diarrhoea, particularly after high-sugar meals.
    • Nutrient deficiencies: Decreased absorption may result in a lack of vitamins (like B12, vitamin D) or minerals (such as iron, calcium), requiring ongoing supplementation.
    • Marginal ulcers: Ulcers at the anastomosis site that may lead to pain or bleeding.
    • Bowel obstruction: Blockages caused by internal scarring or adhesions, which may necessitate further medical intervention.
    • Weight regain: It may happen if the recommended dietary and lifestyle changes are not followed.
  • Long-Term Considerations:
    • Lifelong dedication to dietary changes, vitamin supplementation, and regular follow-up care.
    • Revision surgery may be required in rare cases of complications or if weight loss is inadequate.

Through careful patient selection and thorough postoperative care, risks are minimised. A bariatric surgeon will evaluate and discuss individual risk factors ahead of surgery.

Expected Recovery Time

  • Hospital stay: Most patients are in the hospital for 2-4 days, depending on their recovery and lack of complications.
  • Recovery at Home:
    • Light activities, including walking, can typically be resumed within a few days to a week.
    • Full recovery, including returning to work or regular activities, usually takes 3-5 weeks, depending on the patient’s health and job requirements.
    • For proper healing, it’s recommended to avoid strenuous exercise or heavy lifting for 6-8 weeks.
  • Postoperative Care:
    • Patients are guided by a dietitian to follow a staged diet, starting with liquids and advancing to soft and solid foods over 4-8 weeks.
    • To prevent deficiencies, lifelong vitamin and mineral supplementation is required.
    • Regular follow-up appointments track weight loss, nutritional status, and overall health.
  • Variations: Recovery duration may differ due to age, comorbidities, or complications. Patients are advised to promptly report symptoms like persistent pain, fever, vomiting, or jaundice.

What to Expect

During a consultation at Northern Surgical Care, a specialist general surgeon will review the patient’s medical and weight history along with health goals. Diagnostic tests like blood work, endoscopy, or imaging may be recommended to assess surgery eligibility. The procedure, risks, benefits, and aftercare will be explained to support informed decision-making. With Liora Health, patients receive multidisciplinary support from dietitians and psychologists to prepare for surgery and ensure long-term weight loss. Contact Northern Surgical Care for a personalised consultation in Werribee St Vincent’s Private Hospital.

Frequently Asked Questions

HOW DOES GASTRIC BYPASS SURGERY COMPARE TO SLEEVE GASTRECTOMY?

Gastric bypass reduces stomach size and alters digestion by bypassing part of the small intestine, limiting calorie absorption and changing gut hormones. Sleeve gastrectomy only reduces stomach size. Gastric bypass may provide greater metabolic benefits for some patients, especially those with type 2 diabetes or severe reflux.

WILL I NEED TO CONTINUE TAKING VITAMINS PERMANENTLY?

Yes. Gastric bypass surgery alters nutrient absorption, making lifelong vitamin and mineral supplementation necessary to avoid deficiencies. Routine blood tests and follow-ups will help ensure your nutritional health as you continue on your weight loss path. 

IS WEIGHT REGAIN A POSSIBILITY AFTER GASTRIC BYPASS?

While gastric bypass provides lasting results, weight regain is possible if lifestyle and dietary recommendations aren’t followed. This is why we’ve collaborated with Liora Health for ongoing care.

Why Choose Northern Surgical Care?

EXPERIENCED, EVIDENCE-BASED CARE

Patients benefit from care guided by clinical evidence and best-practice guidelines, delivered by Dr. Ashok Gunawardene, an experienced specialist general surgeon for bariatric surgery.

COMPREHENSIVE RISK ASSESSMENT

Patient safety is a priority with comprehensive pre-operative assessment, appropriate procedure choice, and open discussion of risks, benefits, and long-term factors.

MULTIDISCIPLINARY SUPPORT

In collaboration with Liora Health, patients benefit from coordinated care with dietitians, psychologists, and nursing staff to assist with preparation, recovery, and long-term weight loss.

References

  • Schauer PR, Bhatt DL, Kirwan JP, et al. Bariatric surgery versus intensive medical therapy for diabetes—5-year outcomes. N Engl J Med. 2017;376(7):641-51. doi:10.1056/NEJMoa1600869
  • Adams TD, Davidson LE, Litwin SE, et al. Weight and metabolic outcomes 12 years after gastric bypass. N Engl J Med. 2017;377(12):1143-55. doi:10.1056/NEJMoa1700459
  • Sjöström L, Narbro K, Sjöström CD, et al. Effects of bariatric surgery on mortality in Swedish obese subjects. N Engl J Med. 2007;357(8):741-52. doi:10.1056/NEJMoa066254
  • Arterburn DE, Telem DA, Kushner RF, et al. Benefits and risks of bariatric surgery in adults: a review. JAMA. 2020;324(9):879-87. doi:10.1001/jama.2020.12567
  • Courcoulas AP, King WC, Belle SH, et al. Seven-year weight trajectories and health outcomes in the Longitudinal Assessment of Bariatric Surgery (LABS) study. JAMA Surg. 2018;153(5):427-34. doi:10.1001/jamasurg.2017.5025