Gastric bypass and duodenal switch are two commonly performed weight-loss surgeries that can help you lose excess weight and keep it off long-term. Knowing the difference between these surgeries can help you make an informed decision when choosing a weight-loss procedure.

Here’s a look at the differences between the two procedures and how to request an appointment with Advanced Laparoscopic Associates when you’re ready to discuss your weight-loss options.

What Is Gastric Bypass Surgery?

Gastric bypass surgery is considered the gold standard in bariatric surgery, given how it is proven to help patients lose a high amount of excess weight. A peer-reviewed study published in Surgery for Obesity and Related Diseases showed that patients who had gastric bypass surgery experienced an average body mass index (BMI) loss of 63.3%.

This weight-loss procedure is both restrictive and malabsorptive, meaning it can limit the amount of food you eat while also reducing calorie absorption. With this surgery, a portion of your stomach is sectioned-off to leave behind a smaller stomach pouch that allows you to eat less in one sitting. Then, a portion of your small intestine is re-routed or bypassed to limit the calories your body absorbs from the foods you eat.

What Is Duodenal Switch Surgery?

Like gastric bypass, duodenal switch surgery is also a restrictive and malabsorptive weight-loss surgery. With this surgery, a portion of your stomach is removed to leave behind a smaller pouch about the size of a banana.

Then, just like in gastric bypass surgery, part of your small intestine is bypassed to limit the number of calories absorbed by your body. However, in duodenal switch surgery, a significantly larger section of your small intestine is bypassed, resulting in greater weight loss. In a peer-reviewed study published in the Annals of Surgery, a group of patients with an average BMI of 52.8 lost an average of 127 pounds during the first year after duodenal switch surgery.

Gastric Bypass and Duodenal Switch: What’s the Difference?

Gastric bypass and duodenal switch are highly similar as they are restrictive and malabsorptive. However, several key differences remain between these weight-loss procedures.

Duodenal switch surgery is typically recommended for patients who have a BMI of 50 or greater, while gastric bypass surgery is recommended for patients who have a BMI of between 40 and 50. Patients who have duodenal switch surgery are more likely to lose a higher amount of excess weight within a short period due to how a larger section of the intestine is bypassed than in gastric bypass surgery.

Compared with gastric bypass surgery, duodenal switch surgery is associated with a higher number of risks and complications due to the nature of the procedure. It also produces a longer hospital stay and a longer downtime and recovery. However, the duodenal switch is superior to gastric bypass because it results in more weight loss and improved metabolic control in people with a BMI of 50 or higher.

Which Surgery Is Best for You?

The best way to determine which weight-loss surgery is best for you is to schedule a consultation with a board-certified bariatric surgeon. A bariatric surgeon can evaluate your weight and any comorbid health conditions and talk to you about your weight-loss goals and the methods you have already tried to lose excess weight. Then, you and your bariatric surgeon can work together to find the ideal weight-loss solution.

Advanced Laparoscopic Associates offers a wide range of bariatric procedures to help you lose excess weight and keep it off long-term. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about your many weight-loss surgery options.