RNY Gastric Bypass Specialist

David L. Chengelis, MD -  - Advanced Laparoscopic Surgeon

Advanced Laparoscopic Surgery, PC

David L. Chengelis, MD

Advanced Laparoscopic Surgeon located in Troy, MI

If you have more than 80 pounds to lose to reach a healthy body weight, a body mass index (BMI) of 35 or higher, and have not been able to lose weight through diet and exercise, you may be a good candidate for Roux en Y (RNY) gastric bypass surgery. Dr. David Chengelis has performed over 1,000 laparoscopic RNY gastric bypass procedures at Advanced Laparoscopic Surgery P.C. in Royal Oak, Michigan, just outside Detroit. Call or schedule a consultation online today to learn more about this minimally invasive bariatric surgery that can help you finally lose weight and improve your health. Dr. Chengelis participates in multidisciplinary weightloss programs that include nutritionist, psychologists, medical evaluations, at both Beaumont and Unisource weightloss programs. All surgeries are performed at Beaumont Health, Royal Oak Hospital.

RNY Gastric Bypass Q & A

What is an RNY gastric bypass?

The RNY gastric bypass is often considered the gold standard among bariatric surgeries available today. It reduces your caloric intake in two ways. First, it reduces the space available in your stomach, which forces you to eat much smaller meals. Second, the food you eat bypasses a portion of the small intestine which reduces absorption of calories.  

During the operation, Dr. Chengelis makes a small 15-20 ml pouch from the very top of your stomach, separating it from the rest of the organ. Then, he reroutes your small intestine and attaches it directly to the small pouch. This is where the procedure gets its name. The part of the small intestine that is attached to the newly created small stomach pouch is called the Roux limb.

Dr. Chengelis often recommends RNY gastric bypass procedures,  particularly in obese patients with insulin dependent diabetes and gastroesophageal reflux. In his experience, they’re successful in helping people lose weight and improve their health. He enjoys helping people make positive changes in their lives.

What happens during a laparoscopic RNY gastric bypass?

Dr. Chengelis performs gastric bypass surgery using minimally invasive laparoscopic surgical techniques. He uses special surgical tools, including a laparoscope, a thin tube with a light and a camera mounted on the tip — to perform the gastric bypass without the need for a large incision.

While you will need general anesthesia, the procedure usually takes only two hours. You may need to stay in the hospital for one to two days after your procedure, although many patients feel well enough to go home after 24 hours.

What should I expect during recovery?

After your surgery, your diet is restricted to liquids for at least two weeks. As a result, you may experience fatigue and will need to make sure you consume enough protein and fluid. You will work with a nutritionist to make sure you get all the nutrients and vitamins you need as you adjust to your new way of eating.

You can exercise as soon as you feel ready. Dr. Chengelis encourages you to get up and walk around regularly. You have follow-up appointments with his office at two weeks,  three months, six months, and a year after your surgery.

If you struggle with your weight and haven’t been able to reach a healthy BMI through other weight loss methods, call or schedule a consultation online today to learn more about RNY gastric bypass and if it’s right for you.