Hi,

I am considering Bypass surgery after being banded for 6 years. I have had my band removed and have around 4 weeks until Bypassed. Can anyone tell me how long I could expect to have a leak after Bypass? Is it something that happens in the days and weeks after surgery, or could I have a leak years later?

Never heard of a leak from a healed stomach.. considering there would most likely be scar tissue.. which would probably make the incision line even thicker.

Leaks typically happen in the first 8 weeks.

There are other long term concerns.. strictures, ulcers, and deficiencies.

Thank you....trying to weigh up pros and cons!

I know, it can be a tough choice! Is your surgeon willing to do the sleeve, or are you just deciding whether to get another procedure at all?

Surgeon said bypass as i have diabetes. ..he said 78 percent chance i will be diabetes free after surgery...pretty good odds so im 98 per cent yes x

Sounds like bypass is a good choice

For the most part, bypass complications are managable, as long as you are willing to take care of yourself for a lifetime. It's when people stop paying attention to their vitamins etc. that things go sideways.

You'll do great!

Thank you Berry for your response...i feel better about my choice!

I haven't heard of a leak due to gastric bypass, so it doesn't sound very common. We had a gentleman in our bariatric surgery support group who went from band to bypass. The band was wearing into his stomach and it was about to rupture. Because of the scar tissue from the band, they made his pouch a little smaller than most. It meant that he ate smaller meals but more frequently. He was fine with that and was happy with the results.

My surgeon tested for leaks the morning following my surgery. I think as long as you follow the food stages as prescribed and don't eat things your stomach isn't healed enough for, leaks should not occur. One patient at my surgeon's went to Taco Bell on the way home from the hospital and had a taco. Another's family ordered pizza on the day she came home which she ate (talk about sabotage and disfunctional families!). Both ended up right back in the hospital.