| Gastric Bypass FAQ
Gastric bypass is a term that most people have heard at least once in their life, particularly in recent times. Everybody knows that it is something related to weight loss, but just a few are aware of the full meaning of the concept, as well as its associated risks and benefits to your overall health. The following are some of the common questions people have before considering this bariatric procedure.
What is gastric bypass?
This is a surgical procedure for the treatment of obesity, consisting of the creation of a small stomach pouch decreasing its capacity for food ingestion.
When is this procedure recommended?
After conventional methods to reduce weight have failed, but particularly for those individuals suffering form morbid obesity, and weighing over 100 pounds in men and 80 pounds in women.
What does gastric bypass do?
Controls your weight by preventing over eating, and limiting the stomachs capacity to hold food. The new size creates a fullness sensation after eating very small portions of food, hence limiting your calorie intake.
Is this an easy procedure?
Performing the surgery is easy, seeing the results after the operation not at all, because this gastric bypass requires patience. The estimated time involved includes 1 to 2 weeks before the surgery, 2 to 7 days of hospital stay, 2 to 6 weeks before getting back to your normal activities, and 1 year to 5 years before you lose all the extra weight you gained before the procedure.
What are the risks of undergoing gastric bypass?
Like in all surgical procedures, gastric bypass may have complications, side effects and health risk, including but not limited to infection, ulcers, hernias, diabetes, blood clots in the lungs, high blood pressure, stroke, among others, and eventually death.
Does this surgery require a special diet?
Definitely, due to the reduced size of the new stomach, malnutrition and malabsorption may occur, requiring the lifelong intake of dietary supplements, a multi-vitamin and minerals. In addition, you need to eat a diet, that a nutritionists will design especially for you, avoiding you eat more than the portion of a cup at every meal, the amount of food you new poach will be able to hold.
How much should I pay for this procedure?
Prices vary depending on the professional service where you are planning to have your surgery but about $15,000 to $25,000 USD on average.
Will insurance cover this procedure?
Depends on your insurance company and the terms of your actual policy. Some companies may cover gastric bypass when it is supported by a medical staff. Although, generally they will not, when cosmetic reasons apply. When insurance applies, you may have all the fees covered or just a few covered, due to the number of associated costs such as dietary programs, follow-up sessions, gyms, etc.
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