Question for those bypassed

Good Morning Everyone. I had a question about the amount bypassed. My surgery is upcoming on 4/14 and I asked my surgeon at my pre op appt how much he was bypassing me.  He said 100cm.  Now reading the boards as much as I do, it seems people with higher BMI's have more bypassed.  I see majority at 150cm bypassed.  I just wanted to know do you think the difference would have an impact on weight loss, more or less?  I have about 150 pounds to lose.  Thanks for your insight... Rahsheeda

Rahsheeda -

I'm afraid that I can't help much in that area since I was a 'lightweight' to start out, with just about 100 lbs to lose. I would like to suggest that you call your surgeon's office and talk with him about your concerns and ask him the pros and cons of the amount that's bypassed and if there are studies that show a significant difference from one to another.

I think it's great that you are working so hard to ensure that you are well-informed about the procedure you are about to undergo. That type of diligence should hold you in good stead as you go through not only the surgery, but all of the lifestyle changes necessary to ensure longterm success.

Wishing you all the best,

Barb

Rahsheeda - That's a very good question.  I had my RNY at Duke in January and I never noticed or picked up on that point.  Now I'm wondering if I had the optimal amount bypassed.  I too have about the same amount to lose.  I'll be curious to see others' responses.

Good luck to you; you don't have long to wait now!

There is no 'optimal' amount - no matter how much bypassed we all have the ability to lose the same amount of weight :-)  Typically those with more bypassed lose quicker than those with less, but the end result is the same! :-)

There is a proximal bypass and a distal bypass.  The distal bypasses more and is usually used in patients who have a lot more weight to lose.  I wanted to lose about 150 lb and ended up with a proximal bypass, and I've lost 143 pounds in a year.  I asked my surgeon and he said he uses the proximal more often than not to accomplish the losses that most of his people need, and that distal is reserved for those needing to lose a lot more weight. 

I am ashamed to say I don't have a clue!  Did a lot of research but never thought to ask that question. Good luck!   Pam

Thanks everyone for your wonderful replies.  I guess in the grand scheme of things it doesnt have a dramatic effect.  I am getting nervous but still more excited than nervous.  Does anyone have any tips that have helped you post op that you can pass on to me? Rahsheeda

Hi Rahsheeda, My best recommendation for post-op is follow your surgeon's orders. I have to say that now being over 7 yrs post-op that was my only regret. I wish you the best. I remember how nervous I was and it has been worth every case of the nerves that I had on the way to my surgery. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions. It's been quite a ride.

About all I can tell you is that I had a proximal bypass and my stomach is now the size of a golf ball.  you remind me of Maureen (Reenie).. she asks questions like this.  I bet she can tell you without a second thought!  You might want to PM her.