Gastric bypass surgery is recommended for individuals living with severe obesity who have not achieved lasting results through diet, exercise, or medical treatments. In general, candidates include those with a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher, or a BMI of 35 or higher when combined with serious obesity-related health conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, or heart disease.
Beyond medical criteria, candidates should be committed to long-term lifestyle changes. Successful outcomes depend on maintaining healthy eating habits, regular physical activity, and attending follow-up medical care to monitor progress and nutritional needs.
How the Procedure is Performed
Gastric bypass is usually performed laparoscopically, using small incisions and specialized instruments to minimize recovery time. During the operation, the surgeon first creates a small pouch at the top of the stomach, reducing the stomach’s capacity to about the size of an egg. This pouch restricts how much food can be eaten in one sitting.
Next, the small intestine is divided, and the lower section is connected directly to the new stomach pouch. This allows food to bypass the majority of the stomach and the first part of the small intestine. Further along, the bypassed section of the intestine is reconnected so digestive juices can mix with food, ensuring that nutrients are still absorbed, though along a shorter pathway.
The end result is a smaller stomach and a rerouted digestive system. Patients feel full sooner, eat less, and absorb fewer calories. Over time, this leads to substantial weight loss and significant improvement or resolution of many obesity-related conditions.
Gastric Bypass Process at the Hospital
Arrival – One Day Before Surgery
When you arrive at San Diego International Airport, our designated driver will be there to greet you and transport you to our facilities. Upon arrival, you and your companion (if applicable) will be checked into comfortable accommodations for the night. Each room is equipped with a private bathroom, heating and air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and all the necessities to ensure your comfort and preparation for surgery the following day.
Surgery Day
Your hospital process begins at 7:00 am with pre-operative testing. Our internal medicine doctor will perform an EKG and collect blood samples for laboratory review. Once your results are cleared, you will be prepared for surgery. Before entering the operating room, you will meet Dr. Figueroa and his surgical team. This is your opportunity to ask any final questions and receive a detailed explanation of the procedure and what to expect.
During Gastric Bypass Surgery
All procedures performed by Dr. Figueroa are done laparoscopically, using small incisions in the abdomen for faster recovery and minimal scarring.
The surgery begins with creating a small pouch at the top of the stomach, about the size of a walnut, which can hold only a few ounces of food. This pouch is separated from the rest of the stomach. The small intestine is then divided, and a portion of it is attached directly to the pouch. This allows food to bypass most of the stomach and the first section of the small intestine, entering further along the digestive tract.
The procedure typically takes 90 minutes to 2 hours. After surgery, you will recover in a monitored environment where the medical staff ensures your safety and comfort.