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805-246-9000 Bariatric Fusion Estore

Gastric Bypass Specialist

Helmuth Billy, MD Our Services Gastric Bypass

Helmuth Billy, MD

Bariatric Surgeons located in Ventura, CA

Gastric bypass surgery is a life-saving procedure for severely overweight and obese patients. At Ventura Advanced Surgical Associates Dr. Helmuth Billy, MD provides gastric bypass surgery as part of a comprehensive, multi-approach weight-loss program, for patients throughout Ventura and Santa Barbara, CA.

Gastric Bypass Q & A

What is gastric bypass surgery?

Gastric bypass surgery is the most common type of weight-loss surgery performed in this country, with approximately 130,000 Americans undergoing the procedure every year. The surgery consists of two procedures that are performed at the same time. During the first part, sometimes called “stomach stapling,” Dr. Billy creates a small stomach pouch that restricts the amount of food that can be held at one time, which causes patients to feel full sooner, eat less and lose weight. The second part of the surgery involves creating a “bypass” of part of the small intestine so that fewer calories are absorbed during digestion.

Who is a candidate for gastric bypass surgery?

Patients’ suitability is evaluated on an individual basis. In general, though, gastric bypass surgery is reserved for individuals who have a body mass index (BMI) that is greater than 40, and who have previously been unsuccessful in losing weight through diet and exercise. Sometimes patients with a lower BMI — between 35 to 39.9 — who have serious, weight-related health concerns, like type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure or severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), may also be considered viable candidates.

What long-term results can I expect from gastric bypass surgery?

Every patient is different, but it is possible to lose half to two-thirds of your body weight within two years of surgery. Most patients maintain the majority of their weight loss long-term. To achieve permanent results requires committing to new, healthy lifestyle. These changes, include following a balanced diet and regular exercise. Ventura Advanced Surgical Associates offers all patients an eight-week Lifestyle Wellness Program following gastric bypass surgery for optimum and on-going success.

Along with weight loss, gastric bypass surgery can resolve or improve other weight-related health conditions, such as:

  • Acid reflux disease
  • Heart disease
  • High blood pressure
  • Severe sleep apnea
  • Type 2 diabetes
  • Risk of a stroke
  • Degenerative joint disease

Insurance

Ventura Advanced Surgical Associates is a preferred provider with many health plans including Blue Cross, Blue Shield, Health Net PPO, Gold Coast MediCal, and others. Dr. Billy is also a provider with Kaiser Permanente Southern California. You must contact Heather Jacobsen regarding bariatric surgery and insurance coverage. She can also answer questions regarding our billing policies. You can reach Heather by email at heather.jacobsen@drbillybariatrics.com or by phone. Please leave her a detailed message and she will get back to you. Heather Jacobsen, Insurance and Billing Specialist: 805-676-9100 x118.

Blue Shield
Health Net
Kaiser Permanente