Bypass VS Sleeve

[hollybower 122]

I'm thinking as of now I'll have the sleeve. But I'm wondering is it really that much more difficult for the bypass? I am seeing a few people who have gone back into surgery to have the bypass after a sleeve. This is a difficult choice.

[Sojourner 2,446]

This decision should be discussed with your surgeon. So many variables make it a decision partly based on your current weight and medical history.

Initially I was ruled out as an acceptable candidate for the sleeve because of my long history of reflux, so the RNY was deemed the best choice for me. The plan is the RNY, but I have given my surgeon authorization to do the new shaped sleeve if he is unable to do the RNY because of scar tissue from a previous abdominal surgery. The surgeon said they are now doing the sleeve in a slightly different shape than they were doing a few years ago because of the reflux it caused for many patients. He said he thought either procedure would be acceptable, but agreed with my preferences.

[Djmohr 6,965]

The decision is difficult. I ended up going the bypass route because I suffered from Gerd and bypass will cure that problem. The sleeve on the other hand can make that situation worse or cause it in many cases.

For me, the bypass was not difficult at all. I have had no complications and am so very glad I went this route. I wanted to make sure I was only going to have this type of surgery 1 time and 1 time only.

Now a year out and 124lbs lighter, I would do it all over again in a second. I can eat pretty much whatever I want, not that I do!

I am so much healthier. Gone is type 2 diabetes. Severe Gerd, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, sleep apnea. Improved stage 3 kidney disease has gone from stage 3 to simply a history of it!

Life is very good after RNY gastric bypass.

[2goldengirl 2,076]

Originally, the sleeve was the first stage of a two-stage surgery for individuals with a BMI > 50. Results were so positive that use of the sleeve as a single procedure has made it the choice for many, especially as longer-term results for the lap band have been disappointing.

The two procedures not only differ in how they're done, but the way in which they change the way your body handles food afterwards. Postop recommendations also differ for many surgeons.

Listen to what your surgeon has to say about each of the procedures for you - he or she will have a reason they prefer one over the other for your particular situation. Good luck!

[kayjay14 43]

I was gun-hoe on getting the sleeve until me doctor told me that bypass is the better option for women. Women and men metabolize differently. It was a long discussion, but I'm having bypass tomorrow!

[Renee2015 5]

My doctor told me for more long term success is to go with Bypass. I had the lap band first and it got twisted so I had to remove it. Do whatever you feel is best for you and definitely talk with the surgeon good luck!

[QuilterGal 216]

I had RNY three months ago and have now lost 76# (pre and post op). These are the reasons I chose the bypass:

-- Surgery has been done for 50+ years and has a long history of success.

-- Is considered the gold standard of WLS. On average people lose more weight with RNY than any other WLS.

-- Eliminates acid reflux. The sleeve can make this worse.

-- BP instantly normal after surgery.

-- "Disconnects" the hunger hormones. My hunger is nothing like it was before surgery.

-- Old stomach is still intact and part of my system.

I have had no complications. My recovery has been amazing. I was off my pain meds three days after coming home from the hospital. I can eat anything I want, although I don't because I don't feel good afterward. I am losing an average of 3 pounds a week. I've had no stalls.

[RNYDawn 160]

I had RNY three months ago and have now lost 76# (pre and post op). These are the reasons I chose the bypass:

-- Surgery has been done for 50+ years and has a long history of success.

-- Is considered the gold standard of WLS. On average people lose more weight with RNY than any other WLS.

-- Eliminates acid reflux. The sleeve can make this worse.

-- BP instantly normal after surgery.

-- "Disconnects" the hunger hormones. My hunger is nothing like it was before surgery.

-- Old stomach is still intact and part of my system.

I have had no complications. My recovery has been amazing. I was off my pain meds three days after coming home from the hospital. I can eat anything I want, although I don't because I don't feel good afterward. I am losing an average of 3 pounds a week. I've had no stalls.

---------

The acid reflux (GERD for me) is why I decided on RNY as well. My surgeon agreed. He found a large hiatal hernia during my scope and said that maybe we could discuss the sleeve (since my GERD could be b/c of the hernia) but I still want the RNY. (sorry my quote of @@QuilterGal got messed up when I edited).

[MitchieMay 27]

I am scheduled to have RNY on 23 Nov. During my pre-op medical consultations, I was found to have a small hiatal hernia. My surgeon says he will take care of that during the main surgery. I've had episodic reflux but nothing long term or frequent. But it was one more thing that solidified for me that I am making the right decision to have this WLS before I start to have many more health issues than I currently have. I am praying for the kind of outcome that you describe, little or few problems or complications! You make me feel so positive and optimistic. Thank you for sharing!