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A: Gastric bypass surgery, commonly known as "stomach stapling," can be a viable option for weight loss in a morbidly obese individual. In this procedure, the stomach is reduced in size by surgically stapling most of it off.

Most facilities that conduct gastric bypass surgery have criteria that the patient must meet before they can qualify for the procedure. The patient should have a body mass index of over 40 or a body mass index greater than 35 with other chronic conditions, such as diabetes or hypertension. Other weight loss methods should have been attempted with little to no success. The patient should also be free of any psychiatric disorders and alcohol or drug abuse. Motivation to make the changes necessary to maintain the weight loss must also be displayed. In most cases, a prospective patient will need to be evaluated by a team of clinicians including a psychiatrist, dietitian, and surgeon to assure that he or she is an appropriate candidate for surgery.

Before deciding on whether or not gastric bypass surgery is right for you, it is important to weigh the benefits against the risks. Surgery, especially in the obese, does carry risks. On the other hand, so does morbid obesity. With bypass surgery, there is the chance of complications, which range from osteoporosis to respiratory failure and even death. The risks of surgery are even greater in patients with other health conditions like diabetes. The benefits of this surgery are similar to any weight loss program; there is improvement in obesity-related disorders including diabetes, hypertension and high cholesterol, as well as enhanced quality of life and increased mobility. It is important that you discuss with your doctor all the risks and benefits associated with this surgery and understand them fully before deciding if this it is the right option for you.

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