Gastric Bypass

What is Gastric Bypass?

Gastric bypass, also known as Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB), is a weight-loss surgery that changes how your stomach and small intestine handle the food you eat. The procedure creates a small pouch from the stomach and connects it directly to the middle portion of the small intestine, bypassing the rest of the stomach and the upper portion of the small intestine. This reduces the amount of food you can eat at one time and decreases the absorption of calories and nutrients, leading to significant weight loss and improvement in obesity-related health conditions.

Procedure Details

During gastric bypass surgery, the surgeon creates a small stomach pouch (about the size of an egg) by dividing the top of the stomach from the rest. The smaller stomach is then connected directly to the middle portion of the small intestine (jejunum), bypassing the rest of the stomach and the first portion of the small intestine (duodenum). The procedure is typically performed laparoscopically through several small incisions using specialized instruments and a camera. The surgery takes approximately 2-3 hours under general anesthesia. This dual approach of restriction (smaller stomach) and malabsorption (bypassing part of the intestine) makes gastric bypass one of the most effective weight-loss surgeries available.

Recovery Information

• Surgery Time: 2-3 HR
• Back to Work: 2-3 WEEKS
• Anesthetist: GENERAL
• Hospitalization Time: 2-3 DAYS
• Recovery Time: 4-6 WEEKS
• Stay Time: 10-14 days

Benefits

• Significant and rapid weight loss (typically 60-80% of excess weight)
• Improvement or resolution of obesity-related conditions such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea, and high cholesterol
• Reduced hunger and increased feeling of fullness
• Long-term maintenance of weight loss
• Improved quality of life and mobility
• Enhanced self-confidence and body image
• Reduced mortality risk compared to remaining obese

Why Choose Iran for Gastric Bypass

Iran offers numerous advantages for international patients seeking gastric bypass surgery:

• Specialized Bariatric Expertise: Iranian bariatric surgeons are internationally recognized for their expertise, with many having performed thousands of successful gastric bypass procedures
• Exceptional Cost Savings: Gastric bypass in Iran costs 75-85% less than in Western countries, with comprehensive packages starting from $3,800-$5,500 (compared to $20,000-$35,000 in the US or Europe)
• Advanced Surgical Techniques: Iranian surgeons utilize the latest laparoscopic and minimally invasive approaches, including robotic-assisted surgery in select centers
• Comprehensive Pre-operative Assessment: Thorough evaluation including psychological assessment, nutritional counseling, and medical clearance
• High Success Rates: Iranian bariatric centers report weight loss outcomes and complication rates comparable to leading global institutions
• Minimal Wait Times: Quick scheduling with virtually no waiting lists, unlike many countries where bariatric surgery may have months-long waiting periods
• All-Inclusive Packages: Comprehensive care covering pre-operative assessment, surgery, post-operative care, accommodation, transportation, and interpreter services
• Specialized Bariatric Facilities: Dedicated centers with equipment designed for obese patients and staff experienced in bariatric care
• Long-term Support: Many programs offer remote follow-up and nutritional guidance after returning home

Risks and Considerations

• Potential for bleeding, infection, or leakage at surgical connections
• Risk of blood clots or respiratory problems
• Dumping syndrome (rapid emptying of stomach contents into the small intestine)
• Nutritional deficiencies requiring lifelong vitamin and mineral supplementation
• Possibility of gallstones due to rapid weight loss
• Risk of internal hernia or bowel obstruction
• Need for lifelong dietary changes and medical follow-up

Ideal Candidates

Ideal candidates for gastric bypass include individuals who:- Have a BMI of 40 or higher, or a BMI of 35-39.9 with obesity-related health conditions- Have attempted weight loss through diet and exercise without success- Are psychologically ready for lifestyle changes and long-term follow-up- Do not have alcohol or drug dependency issues- Understand the procedure and its potential risks and benefits- Are committed to lifelong dietary changes and vitamin supplementation- Have realistic expectations about the results and required lifestyle changes

Preparation for Travel to Iran

Before traveling to Iran for gastric bypass surgery, patients should:- Consult with their chosen Iranian bariatric center remotely- Complete initial medical evaluations in their home country and share results- Obtain necessary medical visa (facilitated by most medical tourism providers)- Follow pre-operative diet and lifestyle recommendations (typically a liver-shrinking diet for 2-3 weeks)- Stop smoking at least six weeks before surgery- Prepare for dietary changes post-surgery- Arrange for appropriate clothing for the recovery period- Pack necessary medications and comfort items- Prepare for a 10-14 day stay in Iran for the procedure and initial recovery

Post-Operative Care in Iran

After gastric bypass surgery in Iran, patients benefit from:- Immediate post-surgical care in modern hospital facilities- Daily monitoring by bariatric specialists- Staged diet progression under nutritionist guidance- Dedicated medical tourism coordinators to assist with any needs- Comfortable recovery accommodations- Translation services for all medical communications- Provision of necessary supplements and medications- Detailed instructions for continued care upon returning home- Remote follow-up consultations as needed

Long-Term Results

Most patients lose 60-80% of their excess weight within the first 12-18 months after gastric bypass surgery. Weight loss typically stabilizes after 18-24 months. Long-term success depends on adherence to dietary and lifestyle changes. Studies show that most patients maintain significant weight loss for at least 10 years after surgery, with many maintaining it for much longer. Patients who undergo gastric bypass in Iran report satisfaction rates and weight loss outcomes comparable to those achieved at leading global centers but at a fraction of the cost. The procedure also has high rates of improvement or resolution of obesity-related health conditions, with many patients experiencing complete remission of type 2 diabetes within days or weeks of surgery, even before significant weight loss occurs.