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Mini Gastric Bypass
Over the course of almost half a century, gastric bypass surgery has undergone significant evolution. This procedure has become one of the most commonly used surgical treatments for morbid obesity due to its proven effectiveness and safety. Despite this, performing the procedure remains technically challenging, even for experienced surgeons with adequate training.
The bariatric surgeons at DFW Bariatric Institute are proud to provide patients in Dallas and Ft. Worth, Texas an advanced procedure known as mini gastric bypass (MGB). This surgery offers a simplified alternative to gastric bypass by using a single anastomosis, resulting in reduced technical complexity, shorter surgery time, and potentially lower risks of complications and death. Studies have shown that MGB can achieve comparable or even better results than gastric bypass, including significant weight loss and resolution of comorbidities.1
What Is The Mini Gastric Bypass?
The MGB was developed with the aim of simplifying the traditional Gastric Bypass surgery and reducing the risk of complications. Like the Gastric Bypass, this procedure involves creating a small stomach pouch using a laparoscopic stapler. However, the Mini Gastric Bypass only involves one connection with the small intestine,2 reducing the chance of complications compared to the Gastric Bypass which has two connections. This surgery restricts food intake and impairs nutrient absorption, resulting in weight loss comparable to gastric bypass. During an MGB, the surgeon will measure out a meter and a half of the small intestine and connect it to the newly created pouch, which is less demanding and quicker than the full gastric bypass that involves the removal of a meter and a half of the small intestine. The MGB promotes significant weight loss, comparable to the gastric bypass in both the short and long term, and is less aggressive than the full gastric bypass.
Benefits of Mini Gastric Bypass
- Less Invasive
- Shorter Recovery Period
- Less Expensive
- Simpler Procedure and Technique
- Reduces symptoms of GERD
- More effective than sleeve gastrectomy at controlling Type 2 diabetes3
Candidates For Mini Gastric Bypass
Weight loss surgery, or bariatric surgery, is a viable option for individuals who meet certain criteria. Candidates for the procedure include those with a BMI greater than 35 or those with a BMI greater than 30 and a minimum of one obesity-related comorbidity. There is no age cap for the procedure, however, it may carry more risk for those over the age of 65. However, age is not the only determining factor in the level of risk associated with the procedure. Gastric bypass is the preferred procedure for most surgeons due to its longevity, widespread training, and extensive long-term outcome studies.
Despite this, the mini gastric bypass may offer advantages for certain individuals. Those with severe diabetes, extreme obesity (over 180kg), or severe reflux may benefit from the mini gastric bypass, as studies have shown that weight loss is slightly higher with this procedure. Additionally, severe reflux patients may also be considered for the mini gastric bypass, as recent studies have shown that the procedure has the same effect on reflux as the standard procedure after 12 months, despite initial concerns of an increased risk of reflux. Ultimately, the decision of which procedure to choose should be made on a case-by-case basis, with the surgeon evaluating each individual’s unique circumstances to determine the best course of action.
FAQs About Mini Gastric Bypass
Can I have the mini gastric bypass if I’ve previously had an unsuccessful bariatric procedure?
Yes, in fact, mini gastric bypass may be an ideal treatment option for those who did not lose much weight with a previous weight loss surgery or for those who have regained weight since their initial surgery. At DFW, Drs. Kureshi and Benevides are proud to offer revisions for previous failed weight loss procedures, including the new laparoscopic mini-bypass surgery which can be done as an outpatient and is especially beneficial for those who have regained weight after a previous sleeve gastrectomy.
What is recovery like after the mini gastric bypass?
Most patients can go home the same day after a mini bypass and are able to return to work and normal activities within a week after surgery.
How much weight can I expect to lose after the mini gastric bypass?
Patients can expect to lose an average of 15-20 lbs per month, with the total average weight loss of approximately 100-150 lbs.
Does mini gastric bypass require a hospital stay?
Unlike traditional bypass surgery (in most cases), MGB surgery can be done completely outpatient, so patients head home same-day and are back to normal activities as soon as a 1 week post-op!
Does mini gastric bypass surgery have any risks or side effects?
MGB has a low rate of postoperative complications compared to a traditional gastric bypass.4 Side effects include nausea, vomiting, esophageal dilation, and Dumping Syndrome. Infection and obstruction of the stomach are also potential side effects. Although less common, blood clots and leaks can occur, and the latter can cause symptoms such as rapid heart rate, shortness of breath, fever, and dizziness. After the surgery, patients may also experience side effects such as body aches, thinning hair, dry skin, and mood swings. Symptoms are generally temporary and should subside within a few months.
Schedule A Consultation for Mini Gastric Bypass Surgery
Ready to take the first step towards a healthier life with the Mini Gastric Bypass? Schedule your consultation today! Our experienced team is here to guide patients in Dallas, Fort Worth, TX, and beyond on this transformative journey. Contact us now to book your consultation and learn more about how the Mini Gastric Bypass can help you take control of your health, regain your confidence, and change your life.
1 Surgery for Obesity and Related Diseases. Single anastomosis or mini-gastric bypass: long-term results and quality of life after a 5-year follow-up. Available: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25614356/. Accessed May 8, 2023.
2 ABCD. Mini-Gastric Bypass: Description of the technique and preliminary results. Available: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5793145/. Accessed May 8, 2023.
3 Journal of Medicine and Life. Sleeve gastrectomy versus mini-gastric bypass and their effects on type II diabetes mellitus and weight loss outcome. Available: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8742895/. Accessed May 8, 2023.
4 International Journal of Surgery. The Mini-Gastric Bypass original technique. Available: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30476553/. Accessed May 8, 2023.
Patient Testimonials
Janet S.
Lost 93 pounds*
"93 pounds later, I have a whole new life. I’ve gone from a size 24 down to 10-12. I no longer have high blood pressure or high cholesterol. My knees, which were in sad shape before surgery, don’t hurt anymore. I joined a gym and participate in water aerobics and a latin impact aerobics class. My whole life has changed. I have much more confidence in myself and love to be with people."
Vivian P.
Lost 140 pounds*
“First off….this surgery will give you your life back. It is a total life changing surgery and I feel like I owe DFW Bariatric my life since they restored mine to me. My weight ballooned up to 273 lbs before my surgery. I have successfully lost and maintained a 140 lb weight loss… This is the most amazing journey that anyone could ever take and the DFW Bariatric Institute staff will all be there to hold your hand and lead you down the road to your success.”
Sherrie M.
Lost 110 pounds*
“I am currently 29 years old and weigh 130 lbs. Before surgery I weighed almost 240 lbs…This is the best thing I have done with my life and would do it again today. It changed my life drastically. My surgeon said to me, 'I can do 50% for you and give you the surgery, but the other 50% is up to you. Your eating, your exercise, your total outlook on life make up the other 50%. And what you want from the surgery is what you will get, and the life you will gain.'”
John E.
Lost 90 pounds*
“I went to a seminar and left there with complete ease, feeling like everyone cared about me and my health. On first office visit I was totally impressed…I never felt rushed in the office, and always felt everyone cared. My surgery was completed and I am now down 90 pounds…The biggest part of recovery comes from the encouragement DFW Bariatric gives. Everyone is always positive and takes the time to explain things in a positive way.”
Kathy D.
Lost 161 pounds*
“There are no words to express the amount of change that weight loss surgery has brought to my life. I am a 54 year old female. There were so many things I was unable to do before the surgery that I blamed on age. It wasn’t my age at all, it was the weight. I am 30 again…The day of my surgery, I weighed 299 pounds. Today I weigh 138 and wear a size 6…I feel so good about myself now. The surgery saved my life!”
Brian S.
Lost 130 pounds*
“After losing 130 pounds, I feel like I have a new lease on life. I was able to stop all of my diabetes, high blood pressure, and my cholesterol medicines. I have always had chronic knee problems and now I am able to run three miles per day without any pain. If I had a choice of doing this surgery again or not, I would definitely do it again. I feel that by having the surgery it not only gave me my life back but it also saved my life.”
Lorna Q.
Lost 107 pounds*
"I have lost the astonishing amount of 107 pounds in less than a year. I feel like I have my life back and I am in control again. All my family and friends are always telling me that I look happier than before and they are right, I am much, much happier than before. I have to thank DFW Bariatric and my husband for helping me throughout this very emotional and amazing journey. I do not regret at all having the surgery, it is one of the best decisions I have ever made in my life.”
Danielle L.
Lost 154 pounds*
“My outlook on life was so different before having my weight loss surgery. I was taking medicine for diabetes, high blood pressure, and depression, and my back, legs, and shoulders hurt all the time which kept me from sleeping. My start weight was 298 pounds. And I am now 144. I’m no longer on any type of medications. My body is the best shape I have ever been in. I am so happy to be where I am today mentally and physically. With my hard work and dedication and with the aid of DFW Bariatric, I am where I want to be. I trust this team with all my heart.”
Dennis H.
Lost 170 pounds*
“At 365 pounds, I was medicated for high blood pressure, diabetes, joint inflammation, and high cholesterol…I was a living example of morbid obesity. I knew then that it was time to do something with my weight…It was not easy to get through all of the hoops that my health plan demanded, but the DFW Bariatric team helped me every step of the way. Today I weigh 195 pounds and feel great! From the time I left the hospital after surgery I have been free from all prescription medications. I can never thank this team enough for giving me back my life."
