Gastric bypass is a well-studied weight-loss operation, especially for people living with type 2 diabetes or reflux. Here is what you need to know before your consultation. Consultations are available in Arabic, English and German.
What is a gastric bypass?
In a gastric bypass the surgeon creates a small stomach pouch and connects it directly to the small intestine, so food bypasses most of the stomach and the first part of the intestine. There are two main types:
- Classic (Roux-en-Y) bypass: two connections.
- Mini gastric bypass: one connection. It is usually not preferred for people with significant reflux.
Dr. Atef Bassas performs both types and chooses with you after the consultation.
Who is it for?
The eligibility criteria are the same as for other weight-loss operations (BMI 35 or more, or 30 to 34.9 with metabolic disease, according to the 2022 ASMBS/IFSO guidelines). A bypass is often discussed for people with:
- type 2 diabetes,
- significant reflux,
- weight regain or reflux after a previous gastric sleeve (conversion from sleeve to bypass).
Step by step with Dr. Atef in Riyadh
- Consultation or video consultation: your weight, health conditions and any previous surgery are reviewed, and the right type of operation is explained.
- Pre-operative tests: blood tests and an anaesthesia consultation are included in the package. Extra tests may be requested depending on your health.
- Surgery and hospital stay: laparoscopic surgery under general anaesthesia, then one or more days in hospital in a private room.
- Staged diet: small meals of liquids, then puréed and soft foods in roughly the first month, before solid food is added gradually.
- Return to work: most people go back to work or their usual routine in about two to four weeks.
- Follow-up: the first visit is free, followed by regular checks of weight, blood tests and vitamins.
Vitamins and follow-up for life
After a bypass the body absorbs some vitamins and minerals less well, such as iron, vitamin B12, calcium and vitamin D. Lifelong supplements and regular blood tests are part of the treatment. Diabetes and blood pressure medication may need adjusting soon after surgery, together with your doctor.
Price of a gastric bypass
Price includes: pre-operative blood tests, anaesthesia consultation, the operation, a private room, the first follow-up visit free, and a diet plan. Pay in 4 interest-free instalments with Tabby or Tamara.
Living outside the city? A video consultation costs 200 SAR and is deducted from the package.