Is gastric bypass safe? Know gastric bypass complications and risks

If you are looking for a solution for significant weight loss, your provider at Goshen Physicians Center for Weight Reduction may recommend gastric bypass, or Roux-en-Y. This bariatric surgery alters the normal digestive process by reducing the size of the stomach and diverting food past the first part of the small intestine where the body absorbs most calories.

Though a complex procedure, gastric bypass is effective. Patients throughout the U.S. typically lose and keep off more than 50 percent excess weight after this surgery.

Once you’re a part of our medically managed weight loss program, you can be considered as a candidate for gastric bypass. Our integrated team can explain gastric bypass side effects, complications and risks in Goshen, IN, and help determine if this procedure is right for you.

Benefits of gastric bypass at Goshen Physicians Center for Weight Reduction

Gastric bypass has many benefits that generally outweigh the risks. Weight loss after gastric bypass surgery often resolves or improves obesity-related diseases such as Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and sleep apnea. It also causes beneficial changes in gut hormones when it reroutes digestion. This helps you feel more satisfied after eating and stay satisfied longer.

Our Center for Weight Reduction offers gastric bypass as a laparoscopic procedure, which means it involves several small incisions instead of one larger incision. This method has fewer short-term risks than open surgery, as well as less pain and a shorter recovery period.

Roux-en-Y complications

Like all surgeries, gastric bypass comes with potential risks and complications, including:

Dumping syndrome, which occurs when undigested food moves too quickly into the small intestine
Internal hernias, in which the small intestine becomes trapped and blocked
Leakage of digestive juices and intestinal contents at the surgical connections
Stomal stenosis, which is a tightening and narrowing of the opening between the stomach and small intestine
Peritonitis, or the inflammation and infections of the membrane lining the abdomen.
Severe malnutrition due to malabsorption

Partnering with our team and committing to weight loss can help prevent gastric bypass side effects. We want to support your complete well-being as you take steps toward a healthier life.

Goshen Physicians Center for Weight Reduction can help you understand the benefits, as well as the risks and complications, of gastric bypass in Goshen, IN.