Life After Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass is a major surgery. It is important for patients to know what to expect before undergoing this weight loss procedure.

Recovery Expectations

Although recovery time can vary based on individual patients, it typically takes from two to six weeks to return to work. In most cases, patients who have the laparoscopic version of the surgery can return to work closer to the two week mark and patients who have the open Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery may need the full six weeks. During the recovery, it is important for patients to follow their doctor's guidelines for diet, exercise, and medication.

Lifestyle Changes

Because the patient's stomach will be about the size of an egg following Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery, the amount of food that can be consumed will be limited to about 2 ounces at a time. Typically, the patient will be told to eat four to six small meals per day. Meals will begin as liquids, then pureed food, and eventually solid food. To keep food from getting caught, it is important that it is chewed thoroughly. As advised by the bariatric surgeon, aerobic exercises like walking, swimming, and bike riding should be incorporated into a patient's post-surgical regimen. As patients become stronger and more fit, they are typically encouraged to begin weight training to increase muscle mass, improve bone strength, and increase metabolism.

Weight Loss Results

Most people who have gastric bypass surgery start to lose weight quickly and continue to lose weight for up to 12 months. In one trial, patients lost about one-third of their excess weight in one to four years.

Other Considerations

The Roux-en-Y gastric bypass procedure produces good results for the majority of patients, but it can also cause serious health complications for some individuals. Patients should speak with their physician to make sure they fully understand the possible risks and complications associated with Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery or other types of weight loss surgery being considered. In most cases, the benefits of the surgery outweigh the potential risks.