Our surgeons are specialized in laparoscopic surgery (4-6 very small incisions in the abdomen). Laparoscopic surgeries allow you to recover quickly, with less pain and less risk for complications.
See the illustration below for typical incision sites.
Michigan Medicine performs two types of bariatric surgery procedures: gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy.
Gastric Bypass (Roux-en-Y)
Gastric bypass surgery divides the stomach to create a gastric pouch (about the size of an egg) and surgically connects the small intestine to the smaller stomach. This causes food to bypass the stomach and first part of the small intestine. The operation is typically 2-3 hours long.
Sleeve Gastrectomy
Sleeve gastrectomy surgery divides and removes approximately 80-85% of the stomach. The operation is typically 1-2 hours long.
For information on endoscopic bariatric procedures, like the gastric balloon, see Endoscopic Bariatric Therapy (EBT) below.
Recovery and Follow-Up
Both gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy procedures follow the same recovery plan:
- 1-2 days in the hospital
- Follow-up appointments after surgery:
- 2-week and 2-month appointments at the Taubman or Chelsea clinic
- 6-month, 1-year, and annual appointments at the MEND clinic at Domino’s Farms
- More follow-up visits can be scheduled if needed
Restrictions for 2-4 weeks after surgery:
- No heavy lifting over 10-20 pounds
- No driving while taking narcotic pain medication
- No baths or pools until incisions are fully healed. Showering is fine.
Endoscopic Bariatric Therapy (EBT)
The Michigan Medicine Gastroenterology Clinic also offers non-surgical endoscopic bariatric therapy (EBT) for weight loss. Our team and tools can help determine the best procedure for each individual patient.
How to Get Started
- Watch our bariatric surgery informational video and take the follow-up quiz (this link opens a new window).
- Call 734-936-5738 to schedule a new patient consultation at our Ann Arbor or Chelsea location.