Gastric bypass surgery comes in many forms but the most popular are combination-techniques that shrink the stomach by stapling off a small section and shortening the small intestine by reattaching it at a lower point where fewer calories will be absorbed.
Gastric bypass surgery and other bariatric procedures were traditionally performed with large incisions but laparoscopes have changed that resulting in lowered risks of many potential complications. Laparoscopic gastric bypass surgery is a less-invasive technique involving several small incisions in the abdomen through which surgical instruments are inserted. The laparoscope (camera) is also inserted inside the abdomen so the surgeon can see.
The benefits of Laparoscopic gastric bypass surgery are smaller scars, lower risk of hernias, and faster recovery compared to traditional large incision gastric bypass surgery. Laparoscopic gastric bypass surgery cannot be used, however, if the patient weighs over 500 pounds. A doctor may recommend a short-term weight loss procedure like mouth-wiring to lower the weight of the patient to 400 or less so laparoscopic bypass surgery can be performed.
As in any...