Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass (RYGB)

Although the Roux-en-Y ("end-to-side") gastric bypass weight loss procedure has traditionally been performed through a large abdominal incision, Dr. Wagner specializes in laparoscopic Roux-en-Y. This newer and safer technique is less invasive, requires less recovery time, and reduces the risk of infection. Roux-en-y procedures have been performed for well over 20 years, and are among the safest and most successful weight loss surgeries.

During laparoscopic surgery, specialized surgical instruments and tiny cameras are inserted through small incisions in the patient's abdomen. The cameras allow the surgeon to precisely view and control the surgical instruments and complete the surgery successfully with less post-operative scarring. In the laparoscopic Roux-en-Y procedure, a small portion of the stomach is separated, then attached directly to the small intestine; the larger portion of the stomach is sealed off. The surgery permanently reduces the size and capacity of the stomach, resulting in reduced food consumption, lower caloric absorption, and a quicker feeling of fullness, all of which lead to weight loss.

Patients who undergo Roux-en-Y can experience dramatic weight loss of up to 80 percent of excess weight in the first year after surgery. More importantly, the adverse health conditions that were caused or exacerbated by the excess weight – including diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure – are nearly always improved.

Roux-en-y is a major surgery that can help restore your health and your spirit. Dr. Wagner has the utmost concern for your health and would be pleased to meet with you to discuss your options. Please contact our office today to find out about Dr. Wagner's free bariatric surgery seminar.

Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding (LAP-BAND®)

The LAP-BAND® Adjustable Gastric Banding System is an FDA-approved surgical treatment for severe obesity. The LAP-BAND® device reduces the capacity of the stomach, thereby reducing the amount of food that can be ingested. The smaller stomach capacity allows patients to feel full and satisfied after eating a smaller amount of food. Because the band also slows the emptying of food into the digestive tract, the feeling of fullness also lasts for a longer time. Together, these factors lead to significant weight loss.

The LAP-BAND® procedure is minimally invasive. Through tiny incisions in the abdominal wall, precision instruments are used to place the band around the upper stomach. One of the greatest benefits of the LAP-BAND® System is that it is adjustable. After the band is placed, its diameter can easily be adjusted by your surgeon, to control the capacity and digestive flow of food based on your individual needs. The adjustment is made by injecting or removing saline solution through the sterile access port just below the skin.

Because the LAP-BAND® procedure is minimally invasive, patients experience less post-operative pain and quicker recovery times than with other methods of weight loss surgery. There is no cutting or stapling of the stomach. The LAP-BAND® device does not surgically alter or reroute the stomach. The procedure is fully reversible; should the band ever need to be removed, the stomach generally reverts to its original form.

The LAP-BAND® is an excellent treatment option for many people struggling with obesity and associated health complications. Dr. Wagner is experienced with the LAP-BAND® System and has performed over 330 LAP-BAND® procedures and over 180 laparoscopic gastric bypass procedures. To find out if you may be eligible for this procedure, please contact Dr. Wagner's office today.

Aftercare

One of the most common complaints of bariatric surgery patients is the lack of follow-up care. However, this is not the case at Heart of America Bariatrics, LLC. Dr. Wagner believes that, in order for your surgery to be successful, you need continued support and care throughout the recovery and weight loss process. That's why his aftercare program is so thorough – and so highly regarded by his patients.

Some surgeons seem to forget about you after you leave the operating room. But Dr. Wagner knows that surgery is just the first step in a long journey to health. His thorough, respectful, and sensitive approach to your physical and emotional well-being makes him one of the most sough-after bariatric surgeons in the country.