Bay Surgery is renowned for its expertise in Gastric Bypass and Gastric Sleeve Surgery in Tauranga. As a potential patient considering gastric bypass, it's crucial to understand whether you qualify for this life-changing procedure. This surgery isn't a one-size-fits-all solution but could be an ideal option for many struggling with severe obesity and related health conditions.

Who is it for?

Gastric bypass and similar weight-loss surgeries are primarily considered for individuals with:

• A Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 or higher, indicating extreme obesity.

• A BMI ranging from 35 to 39.9 (obesity category), accompanied by severe weight-related health issues like type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or severe sleep apnea. In certain situations, individuals with a BMI of 30 to 34 and serious health problems may also be candidates.

However, being severely overweight doesn't automatically qualify you for gastric bypass. Prospective patients must meet specific medical criteria and undergo an extensive screening process. This ensures that the surgery is both a safe and effective option for you.

Commitment to Lifestyle Changes

Gastric bypass demands a lifelong commitment to a healthier lifestyle. Candidates must be ready to adopt significant changes in their diet, exercise habits, and overall lifestyle. Furthermore, patients are typically required to engage in long-term follow-up plans, which include regular monitoring of nutrition, lifestyle and behaviour changes, and ongoing medical conditions.

Insurance and Coverage

It's advisable to check with your health insurance provider or regional Medicare or Medicaid office to confirm if your policy covers weight-loss surgery. This step is crucial in planning your journey towards a healthier life.

Why it's Done

The primary aim of gastric bypass surgery is to help you lose excess weight and lower the risk of life-threatening weight-related health problems, including:

• Gastroesophageal reflux disease

• Heart disease

• High blood pressure

• High cholesterol

• Obstructive sleep apnea

• Type 2 diabetes

• Stroke

• Cancer

• Infertility

Typically, gastric bypass is considered only after unsuccessful attempts to lose weight through diet and exercise.

Pre-Surgery Investigations in Tauranga

At Bay Surgery in Tauranga, all patients require a Gastroscopy before considering anti-reflux surgery. This safe, 15-minute procedure involves passing a flexible endoscopic camera through the mouth to examine the oesophagus and stomach. It's usually performed with sedation and a local anesthetic throat spray.

Gastroscopy is crucial for:

• Identifying visible inflammation of the oesophagus due to acid.

• Checking for the presence of a hiatus hernia.

• Ruling out more severe conditions like cancer or pre-cancerous issues, especially important for individuals over 50.

However, a normal gastroscopy doesn't always mean the absence of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GORD). About 50% of those with GORD show no visible signs of inflammation during gastroscopy. In such cases, further confirmation through pH monitoring is necessary. This specialized test, not available in Tauranga and requiring travel to Hamilton, is conducted by a Specialist Gastroenterologist and provides an accurate measure of the severity of reflux.

Occasionally, a barium swallow, a special type of X-ray, may also be required.

Conclusion

Deciding to undergo gastric bypass surgery at Bay Surgery is a significant step towards a healthier life. It's essential to understand the qualifications, commitment, and pre-surgery investigations involved. If you think you might be a candidate for gastric bypass or gastric sleeve surgery, consult with the experts at Bay Surgery in Tauranga to embark on your journey towards a healthier, more fulfilling life.