Good candidates for gastric bypass surgery are individuals whose weight may pose a death risk 

Gastric bypass surgery is performed on individuals whose BMI is higher than 40 or whose weight puts them at a risk for life.

Gastric bypass surgery is only considered as a solution if the patient has not been able to lose weight by regular means for at least 5 years. The patient must not have any history of substance abuse, must be mentally stable and must be between the ages of 18 and 65.



The most common gastric bypass surgery is the Roux-en Y. Most other surgeries are similar to this one. The incisions made are very small and allow a small camera to be inserted into the body. The stomach is stapled using surgical staples. This forms a new smaller stomach for food to access.

The intestines are rearranged so that a smaller distance is traveled by food in the intestines. In essence, the stomach is attached to a lower position in the intestines. This procedure is very difficult to perform because of the limited visibility to the surgeon. However, this type of surgery has reduced hospital stay time and pain post-surgery.



Infections and bruising are some risks of the procedure. Some patients experience anastamotic leaking which is due to improper healing of the staples in the body. This can sometimes be treated with antibiotics, but may sometimes require immediate re-operation.



The cost of gastric bypass surgery is around $25 000.



Patients are urged to follow a strict diet and exercise regime, in order to not gain the weight back. The doctor may suggest a diet sample. Moreover there are many dietary suggestions and sample diets to be found in respected books.