Compare Your Weight Loss Surgery Options

	Gastric Bypass	Gastric Banding	Sleeve Gastrectomy
Procedure	Minimally invasive laparoscopic procedure involving multiple areas of the abdomen changes normal process of digestion Not reversible	Minimally invasive laparoscopic procedure no stomach stapling, cutting or intestinal re-routing Reversible	Minimally invasive laparoscopic procedure requires stapling Not reversible
Implanted Device	No significant hardware in body	Requires implanted medical device	No significant hardware in body
Advantages	Rapid initial weight loss Slightly increased total weight loss Improved or resolved conditions associated with obesity Improved quality of life Low mortality rate Low complication rate	No change to normal digestion or nutrient absorption Lower risk of surgical complications No Dumping Syndrome 1 Lowest mortality rate Improved or resolved conditions associated with obesity Improved quality of life	Suited for patients with health conditions that do not make them good candidates for other weight loss surgeries Leaves stomach openings intact so digestion occurs normally Lower risk of surgical complications No Dumping Syndrome 1 Improved or resolved conditions associated with obesity Improved quality of life
Risks or Complications	Changes normal digestion Staple separation or leakage Potential inability to see some organs with x-ray or endoscopy Ulcers Dumping syndrome 1 Increased gas	Band may slip, leak or erode port may dislodge Tube and port complications (kinking, infection and disconnection) Esophageal spasm Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) Inflammation of the esophagus of stomach	Staple separation or leakage Ulcers Dyspepsia (upset stomach or indigestion) Esophageal dysmotility Fistula (an abnormal connection between organs or vessels)
Recovery	Normal activity within one week; full recovery within two to four weeks	Normal activity within one week; full recovery within two to three weeks	Normal activity within a few days; full recovery within two to four weeks
Follow-Up	Regular follow up to track Progress	Regular follow up to and adjustments necessary for best results	Regular follow up to track progress
Weight Loss	Rapid weight loss over 3-6 months, settling at final weight 18-24 months after surgery	Slow and steady weight loss setting at final weight around five years after surgery	About 50% of desired weight loss within two years; about 80% of desired weight loss at about three years. Patients with a BMI > 60 may require additional malabsorptive procedure to achieve total weight loss goal.

1. An intolerance to sugars, fats and some carbohydrates frequently developed after gastric bypass. Patients may experience nausea, flashing and sweating, light headedness and watery diarrhea. These risks can be significantly reduced by following your dietitian’s guidelines very carefully, especially during the first two months after surgery.