I am 300 lbs & 6'3, is gastric bypass surgery right for me? (photos)

Question

People I tell I'm considering the surgery say I don't look that big. A lady at the gastric bypass clinic said where is all my fat.. I'm 300lbs. I'm big but I guess my frame hides it. I need help... I've been cleared for the surgery

Pablo Garcia, MD · Answer

Hello, thanks for your question!Gastric bypass surgery is the most common type of weight-loss surgery. Gastric bypass and other types of weight-loss surgery, collectively known as bariatric surgery, make surgical changes to your stomach and digestive system that limit how much food you can eat and how many nutrients you absorb, leading to weight loss.

While that may sound appealing, gastric bypass surgery isn't for everyone. Like any major procedure, it has significant health risks and side effects. In addition, the long-term success of gastric bypass surgery depends on your ability to make permanent changes in your lifestyle. When you want to be considered for gastric bypass surgery, you must undergo a thorough evaluation to determine if it's suitable for your situation. You may need to meet certain medical guidelines to qualify for weight-loss surgery. You likely will have an extensive screening process to see if you qualify.

In general, gastric bypass and other weight-loss surgery could be an option for you if:

Efforts to lose weight with diet and exercise have been unsuccessfulYour body mass index (BMI) is 40 or higher (extreme obesity)Your BMI is 35 to 39.9 (obesity) and you have a serious weight-related health problem, such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure or severe sleep apneaIn some cases, you may qualify for certain types of weight-loss surgery if your BMI is 30 to 34 and you have serious weight-related health problems.I recommend to make an appointment with a board certified bariatric surgeon for a personal evaluation!\Good luck in this journey!

Mark Pleatman, MD (retired) · Answer

I don't know you.  All I know is that you have a BMI between 35 and 40, which makes you a candidate for bariatric surgery if you have comorbidities such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, or sleep apnea.  Everyone has to make a personal decision balancing the risks of surgery and the perceived benefits.  If you have tried to lose weight without success and understand the risks and potential benefits of surgery, then it might be right for you.As far as choice of operation is concerned, you will be guided by your surgeon.  Personally, I have done very few gastric bypasses in the last few years.  Sleeve gastrectomy is safer, with fewer long and short term complications.  Weight loss and resolution of comorbidities is very similar to that after gastric bypass.  I would suggest that you consider a sleeve gastrectomy if you decide to go ahead with surgery.

I am 300 lbs & 6'3, is gastric bypass surgery right for me? (photos)

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I am 300 lbs & 6'3, is gastric bypass surgery right for me? (photos)

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Everything you need to know about Gastric Bypass

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.