Weight Loss Surgery Options

Minimally Invasive Weight Loss Surgery in Central Minnesota

At CentraCare Weight Management we offer a couple of laparoscopic, weight loss surgery options:

Gastric Bypass Surgery

When gastric bypass surgery is performed, the surgeon creates a small stomach pouch divided from the rest of the stomach. The resulting walnut-sized pouch holds about one ounce of food. The small intestine is then divided and the lower part (jejunum) is connected to the newly formed pouch. This allows food to bypass the first segment of the small intestine (duodenum) resulting in malabsorption of calories and nutrients.

What are the advantages of gastric bypass surgery?

• This surgery is effective for improving or resolving high blood pressure, diabetes, sleep apnea and many other medical issues.
• Gastroesophageal reflux (GERD) is cured.
• Most patients lose 60-80 percent of excess body weight with this procedure.
• Weight loss occurs over a 12- to 18-month period.
• This surgery does not involve an implanted device.

Sleeve Gastrectomy

Sleeve gastrectomy removes the left side of the stomach, including the portion that produces hormones for hunger stimulation. The remaining portion of the stomach is stapled into a narrow tube or sleeve. The reduced stomach size causes a feeling of fullness after eating a small amount of food.

What are the advantages of sleeve gastrectomy?

• The small intestines are left intact, minimizing chances of intestinal blockage and ulcers.
• The surgery results in minimal interference with the digestion and absorption of vitamins and nutrients.
• Most patients lose about 60 percent of excess weight within a two-year period.
• This procedure does not involve an implanted device.

What is the number one weight loss surgery?

At CentraCare Weight Management, the surgery that seems to be the best fit for most of our patients is sleeve gastrectomy. However, your surgeon will work with you to determine the best choice for reaching your goals.

What is the safest form of weight loss surgery?

All weight loss surgeries are safe. Sleeve gastrectomy generally has fewer potential post-surgery complications. The vast majority of bariatric surgeries have no complications.