Preparing for Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass Surgery

The most common type of gastric bypass surgery performed in the United States is Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RGB), according to the American Society for Bariatric Surgery (ASBS). While this procedure has helped many men and women who had been unable to lose weight with other treatments, important consideration must be given to both the risks and the benefits of the Roux-en-Y procedure. There are some important steps that must be taken before Roux-en-Y surgery in order to ensure a favorable outcome.

Medical and Psychological Evaluation

Before undergoing any type of weight-loss surgery, a patient must be evaluated by a qualified bariatric surgeon. This evaluation may include a complete medical examination and a thorough review of a prospective patient's medical history. Because Roux-en-Y is not suitable for everyone , a thorough examination enables the bariatric surgeon to determine whether a patient is a good candidate for this particular technique. To be considered for Roux-en-Y surgery, a patient typically must be morbidly obese, often with accompanying health problems, and have exhausted all non-surgical weight-loss options.

If the patient is not a suitable candidate, the surgeon may present him or her with alternative weight loss options. To ascertain whether a patient is ready to commit to particular lifestyle changes, a psychological evaluation is also necessary.

Nutrition and Fitness Counseling

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass works in two ways to help patients who suffer from morbid obesity. First, by closing off a portion of the stomach, the procedure restricts the amount of food that may be comfortably consumed. The procedure also modifies the small intestine to limit the absorption of calories. As the body itself is modified, so too must patients modify their eating habits. Many bariatric surgeons are affiliated with nutritional counselors, who work with patients before and after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery to help them implement necessary dietary changes.

Since physical activity can not only help people lose weight but promote their ability to heal, sticking to a personalized exercise plan before and after surgery is essential to ensure the best possible results.

Contact a Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass Surgeon

If you think that you may be a good candidate for Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery, your first step toward treatment is to contact a physician who specializes in bariatric weight loss surgery. Find a qualified bariatric surgeon in your area today.