The gastric bypass surgery was developed by Dr. Edward E. Mason of the University of Iowa. It was first used in 1968 and has helped thousands of people lose weight since that time. It is a very effective weight loss tool, but it is not for everyone. Doctors will not consider doing the operation on anyone unless they are morbidly obese. This means that their body mass index must be greater than 40, which is approximately 100 pounds more than their ideal body weight. Still, in many cases, the excess weight may not entitle someone to have the surgery done. Most doctors (and insurance companies) also require that there are other medical problems accompanying the morbid obesity, such as fluid retention, sleep problems, back pain, or arthritis. Even after all these problems, doctors may still encourage the patient to attempt better eating habits rather than opting for the surgery. So as you can see, a gastric bypass surgery is definitely not for everyone, and although it is a very helpful weight loss tool, many doctors aren't quick to suggest it to their patients.
             As with any surgery, the gastric bypass has complications that may result. The complications that pose the greatest health risk are severe wound infections, bowel obstructions, blood clots in the legs and lungs, heart failure, heart attack, and even death. Less serious complications may be mild pneumonia, minor wound infections, and slow wound healing.
             Before the procedure, several things must take place. The patient must first visit with their surgeon who is typically a specialist in bariatric surgery. The surgeon will discuss the operation in detail and go over any questions the patient may have about the procedure. The surgeon will proceed to do a complete physical examination to rule out any major health threats prior to surgery, or he may refer you back to your physician for the physical. The next step involves a psychological evaluation. This is ...