These are two completely different operations. The gastric bypass procedure is a restrictive and malabsorptive operation. With the proper nutritional counseling and behavior modification, you can get close to your ideal body weight. This operation can be performed and has excellent... more
Gastric bypass vs. Gastric band - How to choose?
My spouse weighs approx. 500lb and it's hard for her to exercise to get the weight off, so we're looking into weight loss surgery to help.
What should we consider when choosing between gastric banding and gastric bypass? I'm concerned that gastric bypass is too drastic and permanent but she thinks the results are more dramatic. Thank you!
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7 posts
9 Jun 2009
Gastric bypass -- both the RNY version and the duodenal switch version -- tend to be more successful in helping people lose weight and keep it off in the long run, than the lapband is. However, both of those operations are far riskier than the lapband. I don't know which procedure would be best for your wife, but I do know that there is some research which suggests that the heaviest patients tend to do best with the duodenal switch. I strongly suggest that you and your wife do your research and locate an experienced, highly reputable, skillful, board-certified surgeon, and discuss your wife's options with him or her. The surgeon will be able to evaluate your wife's case and recommend the procedure that will be best for her. I had an RNY 4 years ago and was very successful with it -- met my goal, lost the weight and kept it off, and experienced no complications. But make no mistake, it is extremely risky and dangerous surgery. It's not for everyone, and it's not to be taken lightly (pardon the pun!). I wish you and your wife all the best with this. Do let us know what you decide to do, and feel free to email me if you have any questions.