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Laparoscopic Gastric Bypass Specialist

SurgiThin -  - Bariatric Surgeon

SurgiThin

Bariatric Surgeon located in West Hills, San Fernando Valley, CA

Gastric bypass surgery is historically the most popular type of weight-loss surgery in the U.S. Dr. Paya and the team at SurgiThin are skilled in the most advanced techniques for laparoscopic gastric bypass surgery, helping men and women from West Hills, CA, and throughout the San Fernando Valley region enjoy optimal weight-loss results.

Laparoscopic Gastric Bypass Q & A

What is laparoscopic gastric bypass surgery?

Laparoscopic gastric bypass surgery, or Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, is a very popular type of bariatric surgery that alters the course of the digestive tract, bypassing a portion of the lower intestine to decrease the amount of calories that are consumed, processed and absorbed by the body.

How does gastric bypass surgery work to achieve weight loss?

During the surgery, the stomach is divided into two sections – a larger section and a smaller section. This smaller pouch is about the size of a Ping-Pong ball, significantly reducing the amount of calories that are consumed. The end of the small pouch is disconnected or separated from the upper portion of the small intestine and reattached farther along the intestine to bypass the area of the upper part of the small intestine where most digestion and caloric absorption occurs. Because of this “two-pronged” approach, gastric bypass surgery is considered both a restrictive and a malabsorptive form of weight-loss surgery. Gastric bypass surgery uses a laparoscopic technique, a minimally-invasive approach that uses smaller incisions for less tissue trauma, fewer complications and a faster recovery period.

Is gastric bypass surgery a good choice for all patients who want to lose a significant amount of weight?

Gastric bypass surgery can be an excellent choice for many patients, but it is not ideal for every patient. Generally speaking, gastric bypass can be a good option for patients with a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or greater, or for those who have a BMI between 35 and 40 and who also have a weight-related medical condition like sleep apnea, heart disease or type 2 diabetes. Prior to surgery, patients will have an opportunity to ask questions and to learn about the risks and benefits of gastric bypass surgery as well as other surgical and non-surgical weight-loss options that can help them achieve their weight-loss goals.

Accepted Insurance Plans

We are pleased to be able to accept all PPO insurance plans (e.g. Blue Cross, Blue Shield, United Healthcare, Aetna, Cigna, Healthnet, etc.) that cover weight loss surgery. Patients with PPO insurance can see us without needing a referral or prior authorization. We also accept some HMO insurance plans. Patients with HMO insurance will need to first consult with their primary care physician to obtain a referral to see us. To learn if your health insurance coverage will pay for your surgery, and what your insurance authorization requirements are, please call our office or send us an online contact form.

Aetna
Blue Cross Blue Shield
Cigna
Health Net
Medicare
UnitedHealthcare (except United Community Care Plan)