Types of Bariatric Procedures

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.

Illustration of body with typical bariatric incision locations

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.

Illustration showing incision, pouch and new digestive path created in gastric bypass surgery

Sleeve Gastrectomy

Sleeve gastrectomy surgery divides and removes approximately 80-85% of the stomach. The operation is typically 1-2 hours long.

Illustration showing gastric sleeve incision, pylorus and incision with resected stomach

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:

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