Frequently Asked Questions about weight loss surgery

• Can gastric-bypass surgery be reversed?
  • Yes. Reversing gastric bypass surgery is possible. The procedure is intended to be a permanent change, but because the stomach is bypassed, not removed, surgeons can undo the pouch.

• Will I need plastic surgery to remove excess skin?
  • Many factors influence the need for plastic surgery to remove excess skin after weight loss surgery. These factors include, your starting weight, the amount of weight lost, location of the excess weight and age. The younger patients have a greater amount of skin elasticity and therefore are less likely to need plastic surgery.

• Will I have gallstone complications?
  • Weight loss and diet will promote the production of gallstones. If a patient has previously or currently has gallstones, the gallbladder will most likely be removed. A small percentage of patients develop gallstones after the weight loss and may need surgery.

• Can I become pregnant after gastric-bypass surgery?
  • Yes, you can become pregnant after weight loss surgery without any related complications, if you adhere to medical advice. Thousands of women have had successful pregnancies after gastric-bypass surgery. However, within the 18 – 24 months after surgery it is advised you not become pregnant.

• Will my hair fall-out after my gastric bypass?
  • Hair loss after weight loss surgery is common and likely due to your body conserving energy during the extreme weight loss phase. This is a transient condition and most patients report their hair has grown back adequately over time.

• Will I be able to gulp liquids if I become very thirsty?
  • No, the pouch has a capacity of about one ounce with a fixed opening on the bottom such as with a funnel. While liquid seeps through it must be introduced slowly. It is best and satisfactory to sip liquids all day to keep your hydration level up.

• Are there specific foods that I will have to avoid after surgery?
  • Yes, particularly high fat and high sugar foods. Not only do these foods contain unnecessary calories, consuming them may cause a reaction called “dumping syndrome” which is a result of a chemical reaction in your intestines. The symptoms may include sweating, a racing heart beat, nausea, flushing, weakness, extreme fatigue and sometimes abdominal cramping and diarrhea. This reaction is considered beneficial by patients due to the built-in behavior modification, however not every patient experiences “dumping”.

• Are there specific foods that I will have to eat after surgery?
  • Yes, particularly protein. You will need to supplement with protein especially during the early phase of weight loss. During the extreme weight loss phase you will need to pay very close attention to be sure you are taking-in an adequate amount of protein to prevent lean muscle loss.

• Will I have to take special vitamins after surgery?
  • You will have to take vitamins for the rest of your life. Of particular concern will be calcium, iron, B12 and a good multi that includes antioxidants. While these nutrients are typically received from food, your ability to absorb them will have changed postoperatively and your levels of these nutrients will need to be monitored through periodic lab tests.

• How can I get in-touch with other people who are considering weight loss surgery as an option or who have already undergone gastric bypass surgery?
  • Attend our regularly scheduled weight loss support group meetings and functions. It is common for patients after gastric bypass to feel a kinship with others who have undergone this surgery, and talking with one another about emotional and physical issues often helps to alleviate some of the anxiety surrounding the life changing process that happens after weight loss surgery.