Are you due for gastric bypass surgery? Also known as Roux-en-Y, this surgery helps support weight loss, combat obesity and improve the affected individual’s overall health. This procedure involves shrinking the stomach by bypassing a part of the small intestine, which significantly helps reduce portion sizes. This way, your calorie intake also decreases, and with a proper diet as well as regular exercise, you may notice dramatic weight loss in a short span of time. But how long does a gastric bypass surgery take? You can find out in this blog.
How Long Will the Gastric Bypass Surgery Last?
The time required for a gastric bypass surgery solely depends on your individual case, and it might take around 2 to 4 hours. When you are ready for the procedure, your doctor will proceed with the operation, which usually takes 2 to 3 hours to complete. Since you will be in general anesthesia during that time, you will not be awake throughout the surgery. The surgeon will make minor incisions in the stomach as well as the intestines. After that, they will work to reroute a portion of your digestive system, which is done so the food can bypass a part of your stomach, going straight to the small intestine. Then, they will use stitches or staples to close the incisions.
Time Taken for Preparation, Recovery & Hospital Stay of Gastric Bypass Surgery
While the surgery itself lasts 2 to 4 hours, there are other parts of gastric bypass surgery. Here is a look into how long the preparation, recovery, and hospital stay might take:
- Preparation for Surgery: The process for the surgery starts hours before the actual procedure. You will need to be present at the hospital for the surgery prep on the day of your treatment. Preparing for the surgery will include getting into your hospital gown and meeting with the surgical team. Before you go into surgery, the team will once again go over the procedure with you. You can address any queries or concerns you may have during this session. Moreover, you will be given a sedative so you can relax before surgery.
- Recovery Room: You will not be discharged right after the surgery when you regain consciousness — you will be taken to the recovery room. This is because the doctors will closely monitor your condition to keep an eye out for anything. Furthermore, during this time, you will have a tube in your nose for easy breathing. Plus, an IV in your arm will help provide fluids and pain medication. This will take another 1 to 2 hours, as the doctors will wait until you are awake and in a stable condition. Then, they will move you to a regular hospital room.
- Hospital Stay: Usually, the hospital stay lasts for two to three days once the surgery is over. You should remain at ease during this time and make sure not to indulge in anything too soon. For instance, lifting anything heavy or exercising for six weeks should be avoided. Moreover, follow your doctor’s instructions for a fast and safe recovery.
What’s Next?
A gastric bypass surgery takes 1.5 hours in general, but it can last 2 to 4 hours, depending on your condition. At Nova Bariatrics, you can consult the best doctors and specialists to explore your options. Dial (469) 639-0953 to get started on your weight loss journey today, or make your way to 1081 Kinwest Pkwy #110, Irving, TX 75063.