Stomach stapling surgery is an intense procedure that requires general anesthesia so you will sleep through the entire process. You will be in surgery for 1 to 4 hours and will need to stay in the hospital for 1 to 7 days depending on how well you do.

Stomach stapling surgery works by shrinking the stomach and allowing food to bypass part of the small intestine. After surgery the amount of food you will be able to eat will be much less, you will feel full sooner. Because the intestine is bypassed fewer calories will be absorbed which is how you will lose weight.

During the surgery your stomach is made smaller by using surgical staples that create a small pouch at the top of the stomach. The smaller portion of the stomach is attached to the middle portion of the small intestine.

After Surgery

• You’ll remain in the hospital for 4 to 6 days
• It will take 3 to 5 weeks before you are able to return to normal activities
• You may experience nausea, weakness, sweating, and diarrhea