Gastric Bypass SurgeryFayetteville, Fort Smith, AR & Tulsa, OK

The laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass leads to weight loss through two mechanisms: restriction and malabsorption. At Roller Weight Loss, patients receive expert surgical care, comprehensive pre- and post-operative support, and personalized treatment plans to maximize long-term success with gastric bypass surgery

How does gastric bypass work?

The restriction is done by reducing the size of the stomach, which limits the amount of food you can eat before you feel full. Malabsorption occurs as a portion of the small intestine is bypassed, reducing the amount of food the body will absorb.

The gold standard in weight loss surgery:

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass

It’s important to note that malabsorption simply means that consumed calories will have less of an impact. Malnutrition, on the other hand, is produced by bypassing too much of the small intestine. This operation is considered the gold standard for weight loss surgery given its length of existence and extensive use since 1967.

What is the gastric bypass procedure?

A small stomach pouch (about the size of a medium egg) is created with a stapler device. The small intestines are divided with one end being brought up and connected to the small stomach pouch using the stapler. The intestines are reconnected further downstream.

Dr. explains what a Gastric Bypass is

Expected weight loss

from Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery

Patients generally lose between 65% to 80%* of their excess weight. The exact amount of weight lost depends on your pre-operative body mass index (heavier people lose more weight), compliance with dietary instruction, and increasing your activity levels (exercise). Commitment to proper food choices, nutritional supplementation, and increased activity is essential to maximizing and maintaining your weight loss in the long term. Failure to make these commitments can lead to weight regain.

Minimally invasive gastric bypass surgery

Dr. Josh Roller, Dr. Yong Kwon, Dr. Jaime Dutton, and Dr. Jessica Pries typically perform this procedure laparoscopically 99% of the time, aiming to avoid creating a large incision in the abdomen. It’s extremely rare for our surgeons to have to perform open weight loss surgery. Most of our patients stay for one night in the hospital and are able to go back to work in a week’s time — with less than a 1% wound complication rate.

Take the first step on the path to improved health here

The first step in your weight loss journey is to register for one of our weight loss seminars.

Take the First Step Toward Weight Loss Success—Schedule Your Consultation with Dr. Roller

Candidates for Roux-en-Y gastric bypass:

Is this right for you?

If you have a BMI (body mass index) over 40, you may be a good candidate for minimally invasive, laparoscopically performed Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery. Other candidates may have a BMI between 35 and 39 and are suffering from one or more obesity-related health conditions such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, or sleep apnea.

Recovery from Roux-en-Y gastric bypass

The recovery from this advanced weight loss surgery goes through several phases. Rather than spending many days or even weeks in a hospital, our patients are typically released after one day. For the
first one to two weeks after surgery, you will follow a liquid diet, then soft foods, and then back to regular food.

You will need to eat slowly and cannot consume liquids 30 minutes before or after eating. As the days pass, your system will settle into a new routine and the excess weight disappears quickly. This is a very rewarding experience. You will also need to take supplements to ensure your body is supplied with the nutrition it needs.

A new life can be yours

If you’re considering weight loss surgery, you deserve treatment with the latest techniques, and under the care of a fellowship-trained bariatric surgeon. At Roller Weight Loss & Advanced Surgery, we are honored to be among the leading authorities in bariatric surgery. We have a patient-focused approach to every surgery and will work closely with you to select the most effective weight loss program for your condition. For an extraordinary level of personalized care, speak to our team at Roller Weight Loss & Advanced Surgery.

*Results may vary person to person.

Ready for a New You? Schedule Your Bariatric Surgery Consultation with Dr. Roller

FAQsRoux-en-Y gastric bypass

How does Roux-en-Y gastric bypass affect hunger hormones?

Can I develop dumping syndrome after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass?

How does Roux-en-Y gastric bypass impact nutrient absorption?

Is weight regain possible after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass?

What is the average recovery time for Roux-en-Y gastric bypass?

Does Roux-en-Y gastric bypass improve Type 2 diabetes?

How soon after surgery can I start exercising?

Will I experience hair loss after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass?

Can I still get pregnant after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass?

Will I need follow-up appointments after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass?

How does Roux-en-Y gastric bypass affect hunger hormones?

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass alters gut hormone levels, such as ghrelin and GLP-1, leading to reduced hunger and improved satiety.

Can I develop dumping syndrome after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass?

Yes, consuming high-sugar or high-fat foods can cause dumping syndrome, leading to nausea, dizziness, and diarrhea.

How does Roux-en-Y gastric bypass impact nutrient absorption?

This procedure reduces absorption of vitamins and minerals, requiring lifelong supplementation of B12, iron, calcium, and vitamin D.

Is weight regain possible after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass?

Yes, while RYGB leads to significant weight loss, poor dietary habits or lack of follow-up care can contribute to weight regain, but it is quite difficult.

What is the average recovery time for Roux-en-Y gastric bypass?

Most patients return to normal activities in 2-4 weeks, but full recovery and adaptation to dietary changes can take several months.

Does Roux-en-Y gastric bypass improve Type 2 diabetes?

Yes, many patients experience rapid improvement or remission of Type 2 diabetes due to hormonal and metabolic changes.

How soon after surgery can I start exercising?

Light walking is encouraged immediately, but intense exercise should be avoided for at least 4-6 weeks as advised by your surgeon.

Will I experience hair loss after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass?

Temporary hair thinning may occur due to rapid weight loss and nutritional changes, but it usually resolves with proper supplementation.

Can I still get pregnant after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass?

Yes, but it is recommended to wait at least 12-18 months after surgery to allow weight stabilization and optimal nutrient absorption.

Will I need follow-up appointments after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass?

Yes, regular follow-ups with your surgeon and dietitian are essential to monitor nutrition, weight loss, and overall health.