Mini-gastric bypass surgery (Roux-en-y)

Mini-gastric bypass is a permanent procedure and reversal is not commonly an option.

This is dependent on how closely you follow lifestyle and dietary changes post-op. The procedure can lead to up to 70% excess weight loss.

Patients lose most of their excess weight in the first year and can lose more weight over the next 6 to 12 months. 2

All surgical procedures come with potential risks. However, mini gastric bypass has a relatively low risk with a death rate of 1 in 500 to 1 in 1000. 2

It’s important to approach alcohol consumption with caution as changes to your stomach may affect how you process alcohol. You may have increased sensitivity, become intoxicated more quickly and be at an increased risk of dehydration and ulcers. Talk to your doctor or surgeon about drinking safely.

The effects are generally considered to be long-lasting, and the procedure is considered permanent.

In order to maintain weight loss, you will need to follow specific dietary guidelines and adopt life-long healthy habits such as smaller portions, mindful eating and exercise.

After the initial recovery phase where you will be recommended a phased diet of liquids, pureed, soft then solid foods, you will need to follow certain guidelines:

• Eat small, nutrients-rich meals
• Take necessary vitamins and supplements
• Ensure proper hydration
• Eat plenty of protein.

It’s important to follow the dietary advice of your health care provider to achieve a successful outcome.

The eligibility criteria is usually a BMI of 35, or 30 and above, plus an obesity-related health condition.

The exact size of the stomach pouch can vary among individuals and is often determined by the surgeon based on factors such as your anatomy. In general, the stomach pouch created during a mini gastric bypass is typically about 30 to 150 millilitres in volume.

It is possible to gain weight after surgery if lifestyle guidelines are not adhered to.

Long term outcomes can include:

• sustained weight loss
• improvement in obesity-related conditions
• metabolic changes.

You will be supported by the healthcare team, including bariatric nurses and nutritionists during your initial recovery in hospital. You will be monitored and provided with guidance on pain management, diet and exercise.

At Practice Plus Group, we follow the Enhanced Recovery Pathway (ERP). This is a modern, evidence-based approach that helps you speed up your recovery.

You will have regular follow-ups with the healthcare team to check your progress.

This depends on your individual weight loss goals, activity level and starting weight.

After mini gastric bypass, portion sizes are significantly reduced, and your are advised to eat smaller, more frequent meals

It’s important to work closely with healthcare professionals, particularly a dietitian or nutritionist, to determine a personalised calorie intake that supports weight loss, healing, and optimal health.

Dumping syndrome is a potential complication that can occur after mini gastric bypass surgery. It occurs when food, especially sugar, moves too quickly from the stomach into the small intestine. It can lead to symptoms such as nausea, sweating, dizziness and vomiting.

Patient satisfaction after this procedure is generally high.

In one study on laparoscopic Roux-en-y surgery, after 1 year, most health issues were improved or resolved, and 95% of patients reported significant improvement in quality of life.

This varies from person to person but most people can return to normal daily activities, including work, within 2 to 4 weeks after surgery.

While neither procedure is ‘better’, different surgery types may be more suited to an individual patient. Mini gastric bypass is regarded as a less complex procedure with a shorter operative time and recovery period.

Both procedures limit the size of the stomach, however, sleeve gastrectomy does not involve rerouting the digestive system.