What would cause stomach bloating 20 years after a gastric bypass?

Question

I am 40 years old and had a gastric bypass 20 years ago. About 4-5 years ago my stomach turned from the saggy loose stomach I had been sporting for years into a more firm and round stomach that resembles a beach ball. My husband accused me of hiding a pregnancy. At that time, there was no weight gain and I was I steadily holding at my regular 125-130 even though I no longer looked it. I gained weight during covid, but even at 160 I look much, MUCh larger. What could be the cause?

Jorge Maytorena, MD · Answer

It could be that you have not been choosing well what you eat, and surely you can fit more food, you must return to the path of good nutrition

Ali Solmaz, MD · Answer

A sudden change in the appearance of your stomach, especially after gastric bypass surgery, could indicate an underlying issue such as abdominal bloating, fluid retention, or changes in body composition. Over time, scar tissue, internal hernias, or adhesions can develop after gastric bypass and may lead to abdominal distension. Another possibility is visceral fat gain, which can cause a firmer, rounder abdomen even without significant overall weight gain. Hormonal changes or medical conditions like ascites (fluid buildup) or organ enlargement could also contribute. It’s important to consult your doctor, preferably a bariatric surgeon or a gastroenterologist, for a thorough evaluation. Imaging studies, such as an ultrasound or CT scan, might be necessary to determine the cause and address it appropriately.

Pablo Garcia, MD · Answer

Hello, I am sorry to hear you are struggling with this issue. It sounds like you need to be evaluated by your bariatric team, as there are several conditionns that could be causing this. It is possible you are experiencing bloating due to post operative adhesions, which interfere with your gastrointestinal transit. As I said, you need to be properly evaluated by your team.

What would cause stomach bloating 20 years after a gastric bypass?

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What would cause stomach bloating 20 years after a gastric bypass?

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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.