by Kimberly Dawn Wells

Created on: August 01, 2007

Gastric bypass has become a popular weight loss and life saving solution for obese people who have had a difficult time losing weight. There are many misconceptions about how this treatment works and the commitment that is involved. Before you dive in headfirst or blow it off completely, learn the facts about this surgical weight maintenance option.

* Gastric bypass is an invasive procedure

Invasive procedures come with their own risks. When you implant foreign objects in your body and monkey with your innards, your body can react in unexpected ways. Be prepared to have a heart-to-heart with your surgical team to discuss all the methods, risks, and benefits that will accompany your surgery. Also, being overweight can create complications.

* Gastric bypass severely reduces your food intake
The small one-ounce pocket created through gastric bypass surgery is much smaller than your normal quart-sized stomach. While you're getting used to the change, overeating can cause you to feel uncomfortably full or vomit.

* Gastric bypass has an emotional price
Many patients find the emotional toll of surgery, weight loss, and a new relationship with food to be extremely stressful. Others take it in stride and find new joy with their changing body. Your doctor should direct you to a counselor who can help you prepare for the non-physical effects of your procedure.

* Gastric bypass may require future cosmetic surgery
One of the effects of gastric bypass is weight loss that takes place under your skin, often leaving a body you're not proud of. Be prepared to consult with a cosmetic surgeon about your future surgery needs.

* Gastric bypass can be expensive.
If your insurance doesn't cover the procedure, be prepared to pay $15-20,000 for your new tummy.

* Gastric bypass can help restore your health
Losing weight can dramatically alleviate many obesity-related health problems, such as sleep apnea, musculoskeletal ailments, diabetes, and heart disease.

* Gastric bypass is not right for everyone
Just as hour-long cardio workouts and low-carb diets aren't right for everyone, gastric bypass isn't right for everyone. Your individual anatomy, emotional stability, and lifestyle habits will help you and your doctor decide if gastric bypass is your best option. If it isn't, you may be able to benefit from one of the many other surgical and non-surgical stomach reducing procedures.

Gastric bypass helped thousands of people make the change from obese to healthy, and spawned the development of several other weight loss methods. If you are over 100 pounds overweight and feel you would benefit from a procedure such as this, consult your doctor to get started on a new plan to new health.

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