The mini gastric bypass is a faster, easier & less complex method of achieving the benefits of a standard gastric bypass.
WHAT IS MINI-GASTRIC BYPASS?
It’s a common form of weight loss or “bariatric” surgery. It produces reliable results with minimal side effects and carries what most doctors and patients consider to be acceptable risks. Gastric bypass history goes back more than half a century and as such there are no mysteries attached to it for either the surgeon or the patient.
ORIGINS OF THE MINI GASTRIC BYPASS PROCEDURE
In order to better understand what the mini gastric bypass procedure is it is helpful to know what it evolved from. The “mini” bypass is a form of bariatric (weight loss) surgery which was first performed in the 1950s. Bariatric surgery is practically unique in the annals of medicine because with one procedure a person can be potentially be cured of a slew of maladies. That’s because obese individuals typically suffer a host of weight-related health problems from diabetes to heart disease to respiratory conditions to hip and knee degeneration and more.
When these individuals undergo successful bariatric surgery they will typically find that their hip and knee problems are suddenly reduced to very manageable levels that may not require replacement, that their blood sugar becomes stabilized at normal levels, that any respiratory difficulties are relieved and pulmonary function is often restored through exercise and that the strain on their heart is removed. As such bariatric surgery deserves a special place in the pantheon of surgical procedures.
- Reduction in co-morbidities
- Potential for a longer life
- Improved outlook
- Lower risk of complications
- Shorter recovery period
THE PROCEDURE
The mini gastric bypass procedure stands up well in the gastric bypass vs mini gastric bypass debate because it is a faster, easier, less complex method of achieving the benefits of a standard gastric bypass. In most cases the surgery will take about an hour and be far less physically impactful that other types of weight loss surgery. Typically there are 5 steps involved in the process of creating the mini gastric bypass..
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The mini bypass procedure will provide a wealth of benefits including:
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Gaining access
A set of 5 incisions each only 1 inch long are made in the abdominal wall. These will allow the insertion of the camera and light along with the necessary surgical instruments. Different access ‘ports’ (as they are referred to) will be used at different points during the operation.
Liver retraction
In its natural position the liver lies over part of the stomach. In order to avoid damage to this vital organ it is gently lifted out of the way; in effect set aside so that the procedure can continue.
Dividing of the stomach
The stomach is then divided into 2 parts: one large and one small. The large portion will no longer be used while the small section will serve as the patient’s new stomach going forward. This small pouch is already attached directly to the oesophagus so there is no manipulation required at that end. For the record the part of the stomach that is cut away remains “alive”. It is simply no longer used.
The bypass
Exactly how much of the small intestine is bypassed will vary depending on the patient. Typically it’s anywhere from 3 to 6 feet. The location where the intestine is to be connected to the new stomach is moved into position at the bottom of the new small stomach pouch and surgically joined. Unlike in an RNY bypass the small intestine is never sliced all the way through but rather the new stomach is joined to the side.
Verification and closure
Once the bypass is complete the surgeon double checks their work looking for anything that seems off. When they are convinced all is as it should be the various surgical instruments as well as the camera are removed and the incisions closed.
How it works:
Just as with an RNY procedure the new tiny stomach created during the gastric bypass will restrict how much you can eat. Because a portion of the small intestine is bypassed fewer calories will be absorbed thus setting the stage for even greater weight loss. By reducing the size of the stomach levels of the hormone ghrelin which generates feelings of hunger are reduced. As a result you won’t be tempted to eat as much or as often.
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Check Your BMI
| Gastriс Sleeve | BMI 30+ |
| Mini Gastric Bypass | BMI 35+ |
| Gastric Bypass | BMI 35+ |
I just wanted to post this review about my experience and journey to Riga. From start to finish, I had the most laid back trip ever. Any nerves I had were set at ease by the wonderful Mim, who has had weight loss surgery herself so on a personal level can help out first hand, always at the end of the phone for a chat never a bother....
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* This is feedback from our former patients, and such an outcome cannot be guaranteed or promised.
99,4% Patient Satisfaction
Considering weight loss surgery abroad?
Speak to some of our former patients
99,4% Patient Satisfaction
Considering weight loss surgery abroad?
Speak to some of our former patients
Risks of a Mini Gastric Bypass
When it comes to mini gastric bypass vs gastric sleeve there is little doubt the mini bypass is less invasive and internally disruptive. It is still, however, a form of major surgery and as such there are risks and potential complications involved. Below we’re going to go through the litany of those risks and potential complications beginning in the immediate aftermath of surgery and moving outward into the long term recovery period..
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Leaking or abscess, Infection either internal or at the site of the incisions, Blood clots in the lower legs, Pulmonary embolism If you show any signs of these complications you should contact your doctor immediately. |
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- Abdominal wall hernia
- Osteoporosis/bone loss
- Malnutrition
- Insufficient weight loss
- Peripheral neuropathy
- Vitamin deficiency
Most of these complications are extremely rare and can be prevented by being studious in following the postoperative advice of your surgeon and dietitian.
For the most part pain and complications from this type of bariatric surgery are nearly the same as those associated with traditional RNY gastric bypass.
While there will be some pain and discomfort in the days immediately following the procedure it’s typically nothing that can’t be effectively managed with pain medications. In most cases you will be particularly aware of pain and discomfort in the first two weeks if you twist your torso for any reason. But again, you should be able to handle any pain and discomfort using standard pain medications. As you move beyond the 2 week mark pain will subside and you will be weaned off pain medications.
Another thing to keep in mind is that you are going to be fatigued as you begin to lose weight rapidly after surgery. This is to be expected and is nothing to panic about. You will need to endure this phenomenon and rest assured, it will pass as your body adjusts to the new reality. Regular exercise (nothing too strenuous of course) is the best antidote. You’ll be advised to get up and move around starting on your first day home and by the 1 week mark you should be taking fairly long walks (20 to 30 minutes) twice a day. Don’t do anything more strenuous without consulting your doctor.
There are some potentially serious complications associated with bariatric surgery although it must be emphasized the odds of these occurring are slim. Still, you need to know what you are getting into.
- Narrowing of the connection between the small intestine and the reconfigured stomach.
- Bile reflux gastritis. A condition wherein bile flows back into the stomach from the small intestine.
- Dumping syndrome wherein food moves too quickly from the stomach to the intestine causing nausea, dizziness and/or diarrhoea.
- Leaks along the staple line.
- Scar tissue.
- Gallstones.
- Fistulas.
Potential minor complications include the chance of hernias at the site of the surgery and infections in and around the incisions as noted above.
While it is extremely rare, there have been isolated cases where patients have died during or after the procedure. Although this has never happened at Weight Loss Riga, virtually any type of major surgery presents risk.
There is a less than 1% chance that a patient may experience pulmonary embolism.
Pulmonary embolism occurs when a substance travels through the veins into the lungs, where it creates a blockage.
Symptoms include chest pain and shortness of breath.
In a small percentage of cases, ulcers will form on the anastomosis of the intestine. In most cases, the condition can be effectively treated with dietary adjustments or medication.
Internal scarring is a risk with any type of surgery and that’s certainly the case with bariatric procedures. In a small number of cases scars can develop during the postoperative period that result in a narrowing of the intestinal tract. This narrowing can make it difficult for liquids to pass, which can cause significant discomfort and become a serious issue if left untreated. Thankfully, a fairly routine gastro-endoscopic procedure can usually correct the problem.
process nutrients to the same degree of effectiveness as it was previously. As a result, patients typically need to supplement their diet with a number of different vitamins and minerals and may need to do so regularly for many years. Most long term complications are the result of patients failing to take vitamins post gastric bypass, either because they forget or simply aren’t convinced of the medical necessity.
Gastric dumping happens when food passes too quickly from the stomach into the small intestine. Dumping syndrome, as it’s also known, can cause mild to severe diarrhea and/or abdominal cramps shortly after eating. Since most of the time dumping is caused by sugary foods, it can be prevented by alterations in your gastric bypass diet.
While it is extremely rare, there have been isolated cases where patients have died during or after the procedure. Although this has never happened at Weight Loss Riga, virtually any type of major surgery presents risk.Recovery
- Immediately following surgery– Following mini gastric surgery in Riga you can expect to spend from 2 to 5 days recuperating in hospital. In the UK you will often be shown the door after 1 day so they could free up the bed for the next person in line. At Weight Loss Riga however you will have the luxury of spending enough time in our care so that when the time does come to go home you will be entirely ready to do so. And you won’t have to worry about a few extra days draining your bank account either.
- The first 2 weeks – As we mentioned earlier during the first couple of weeks you will likely experience some pain and discomfort but it should be easily handled. You will not be allowed to leave the hospital if you still require IV pain medications, although this almost never happens. Once home your diet after mini gastric bypass will consist of liquids for the first 2 weeks. While it’s possible your doctor may allow you some pureed foods in less than 2 weeks it is not likely. So plan on 14 days. During this time you will stay in close contact with your patient coordinator and should be sure to report any issues. You will be advised to take certain supplements to avoid potential problems related to malabsorption and your medical team will be able to suggest ones that won’t cause problems with your new stomach.
- 2 to 8 weeks out – After 2 weeks on your liquid diet you’ll begin to introduce semi-solid foods into your diet. This will include pureed foods along with things like plain yogurt and Jello. After a further 2 weeks (4 weeks after surgery) on a combination of soft foods and liquids you will finally be able to reintroduce solid foods into your diet. But that doesn’t mean it’s time for a trip to the pizza shop. Instead you’ll take baby steps eating things like well cooked vegetables, soup and fruit. By the end of week 8 you should be eating mostly solid foods and also have established some healthy eating habits.
COST OF MINI-GASTRIC BYPASS SURGERY
As we mentioned at the beginning of this guide mini gastric bypass surgery is touted for its affordability but affordability is a relative term. What is affordable to some is out of reach of others. The fact is if you really want to save money on this type of procedure without sacrificing quality you’ll need to consider having your mini bypass abroad. As an example, there's a wide disparity in costs between having your mini bypass performed in London and having it performed at Weight Loss Riga in the Latvian capital.
Even a renowned hub of medical tourism such as Bangkok will cost you some 20% more on average than Riga plus you’ll need to spend several times as much on airfare and won’t realistically be able to return there should you need to.
Sleeve Gastrectomy
- Airport, hotel, hospital transfer
- 1 night hotel accommodation
- 4 day stay at hospital
- Blood samples & x-rays
- Gastroscopy
- 5 year follow up
Gastric Bypass
- Airport, hotel, hospital transfer
- 1 night hotel accommodation
- 4 day stay at hospital
- Blood samples & x-rays
- Gastroscopy
- 5 year follow up
Mini-Gastric Bypass
- Airport, hotel, hospital transfer
- 1 night hotel accommodation
- 4 day stay at hospital
- Blood samples & x-rays
- Gastroscopy
- 5 year follow up
Riga has become a preferred destination for those seeking affordable weight loss surgery in Europe because of its newly expanded and upgraded airport, its virtually unmatched digital infrastructure, it’s state of the art medical facilities like the Weight Loss Riga clinic, the highly educated and experienced world class surgeons and medical support staff and, of course, the fact that you’ll save a boatload of money over mini gastric bypass surgery cost in the UK without sacrificing quality.
AT THE CLINIC
- Modeled after the most advanced clinics in Western Europe.
- Flat screen TV and free WiFi in every patient room.
- Free accommodation for family member in every room.
- Leave London after breakfast have lunch in Riga.
- Personalized, round the clock care from our highly trained staff.
- Full rehab facilities on site.
The cost of mini gastric bypass surgery in the UK will be twice that of Latvia and in London you’ll get a crowded, noisy, 40 year old room and be pushed out after a day or 2 to make room for someone else. Why endure all that when you can enjoy the brand new, spacious, high-tech accommodations of the Weight Loss Riga clinic? At Weight Loss Riga all your needs will be catered to by our bilingual staff and you’ll be able to fully recuperate before going home.
More About Riga
Weight Loss Riga would not hold the same attraction to patients if it were located somewhere else. With a history that stretches back more than 8 centuries Riga has played an important part in the European story. It has experienced the march of history first hand and was an important commercial and cultural crossroad as early as the 13th century. Germans, Poles, Swedes, Russians and more have come this way and left their mark and yet there is no mistaking the fiercely independent nature and distinct cultural identity of the Latvian people.
When you choose to have your surgery at Weight Loss Riga you’ll come for the world class medical care and you’ll come back for the people and the place.
AM I A GOOD CANDIDATE?
Before scheduling your surgery with Weight Loss Riga you will need to fill out our health and wellness questionnaire. You can get it by calling our Patient Coordinator in the UK or by filling out the enquiry form on our website. Once you have completed the form and returned it to us it will be thoroughly reviewed by our medical staff to determine whether you meet the criteria for this type of surgery. Rest assured that unless you have some significant mitigating condition the chances of you being accepted are good. However, it is vital that you fill out the questionnaire as fully as possible so that our medical team can make an informed decision that will be in the best interest of your health long term.
If your application has passed muster with our medical team you will be invited to contact our Patient Coordinator and set up a date for your procedure. After you arrive in Riga you will undergo a preoperative examination and assessment the day before surgery to ensure you are physically capable of withstanding the stresses that accompany surgery. Should everything meet with the approval of the medical staff you will be put on a preoperative liquid diet in order to prepare your body for the procedure.
EXACTLY HOW MUCH WILL I LOSE?
The amount of weight a patient loses will vary from person to person and depend on a number of factors, including:
- Your weight prior to the procedure.
- Your ideal weight as determined by the BMI (Body Mass Index).
- Your ability to adhere to the dietary and exercise recommendations of the medical staff.
If you are rigorous in your adherence to the postoperative diet plan and exercise in accordance with the recommendations laid out by the medical staff there is an excellent chance you will lose 70-80% of your excess weight and in some cases even more. While you will certainly lose a lot of weight even if you ignore your doctor’s advice, it will not be as much as it could be and you will open yourself up to complications. In short the amount of weight you lose will largely be up to you.
The procedure itself typically takes about an hour. Often less.
Mini gastric bypass surgery has exploded in popularity in recent years as people have become aware of its many advantages relative to other types of weight loss surgery. There’s no doubt that mini gastric bypass results speak for themselves, but you’ll still want to discuss the matter with your physician and our UK Patient Coordinator on +44 2070971772, +44 7758131818 or through the enquiry form on the website before deciding whether or not this type of procedure is for you.
