If your Body Mass Index (BMI) is over 40, or you’re struggling with obesity-related health issues, gastric bypass surgery may be a life-changing option. At Bay Surgery in Tauranga, Dr Daniel Mafi specialises in helping patients achieve long-term weight loss and improved health through gastric bypass and gastric sleeve surgery.

Who Should Consider Gastric Bypass Surgery?

Gastric bypass surgery is typically recommended for individuals with:

A BMI of 40 or higher (classified as extreme obesity), or

A BMI between 35 and 39.9 with related health conditions such as:

• Type 2 diabetes

• High blood pressure

• Severe sleep apnoea

• Joint problems or other obesity-related conditions

These health issues can significantly affect your quality of life—and in many cases, they can improve or even resolve after weight loss surgery.

Why Gastric Bypass Surgery?

Gastric bypass, also known as Roux-en-Y, is one of the most commonly performed weight loss procedures worldwide. It works by:

• Reducing stomach size, limiting how much food you can eat

• Bypassing part of the small intestine, altering how nutrients and calories are absorbed

This dual approach results in sustainable weight loss and often leads to rapid improvements in health conditions linked to obesity.

What Makes a Good Candidate?

Weight alone isn't the only consideration. Before recommending gastric bypass surgery, Dr Mafi and the team at Bay Surgery look at several important factors:

• Previous weight loss attempts: You’ve tried dieting, exercise, or medication without long-term success.

• Commitment to lifestyle changes: Long-term success depends on healthy eating, regular physical activity, and mental resilience.

• Support from a multidisciplinary team: Surgery is just one part of the journey. You’ll work with a team that may include dietitians, counsellors, and other healthcare professionals to support your physical and emotional wellbeing.

• Willingness to attend follow-up appointments: Ongoing monitoring and support are crucial to achieving lasting results and avoiding complications.

Other Surgical Options

While gastric bypass is a proven and powerful option, it’s not the only one available. Dr Mafi also performs:

• Gastric Sleeve Surgery: In this procedure, a portion of the stomach is permanently removed, reducing its size and helping you feel full sooner.

• Other Bariatric Procedures: In selected cases, options like the duodenal switch may be considered.

Each procedure comes with its own benefits and risks, and the best choice depends on your specific health profile and goals.

Risks and Benefits of Gastric Bypass Surgery

As with any major surgery, gastric bypass carries risks such as bleeding, infection, blood clots, or leaks from the surgical site. However, these risks are managed by an experienced surgical team and are generally outweighed by the long-term health benefits, which may include:

• Long-term weight loss

• Improved blood sugar levels

• Lower blood pressure

• Better sleep and energy

• Enhanced mobility and quality of life

Book a Consultation with Dr Daniel Mafi

If your BMI is over 40 or you’re battling weight-related health conditions, it might be time to consider gastric bypass surgery. At Bay Surgery in Tauranga, Dr Daniel Mafi offers expert care and a compassionate approach tailored to your weight loss journey.

Contact us today to take the first step toward a healthier, more confident you.

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