Gastric Bypass

A gastric bypass is a surgery to help very overweight people lose weight. A surgeon changes the stomach to make it much smaller, so patients can’t eat as much food, and they also feel less hungry.

The procedure is minimally invasive, which means it only requires a few small cuts, so it hurts less and heals faster compared to most surgeries. Most patients can leave the hospital quickly, usually within 1-2 days. After the surgery, patients must eat special foods and work hard to stay healthy.

Many people who get this surgery lose a lot of weight, which can help with health problems such as high blood pressure and diabetes. However, the surgery is not a magic fix. Patients who’ve had a gastric bypass need to eat healthy, exercise, and see their doctor often.

Being very overweight is a serious health issue. If you or someone you know is struggling to lose weight through dieting and exercise, consider choosing UAB Medicine for help, as we have been performing this surgery for over 30 years. Also, we understand that surgery is not the only answer. Our doctors, therapists, and nutrition experts can help you meet your weight-loss goals, and we host support groups in which people discuss their weight-loss journeys.

Care Providers

Jayleen Grams, MD, PhD Bariatric Surgery, General Surgery Richard Stahl, MD Bariatric Surgery, General Surgery Kristen Wong, MD General Surgery Brianne R. McGriff Bariatric Surgery

Videos

Resources

• Product Sellers for Bariatric Surgery
• Weight Loss Progress Note
• Bariatric Surgery Patient Stories

Related Specialties

• Bariatric Surgery
  Obesity
  Sleeve Gastrectomy
  UAB Weight Loss Medicine Services