Advanced bariatric surgery procedures tailored to your needs, offering life-changing weight loss results for long-term health and renewed well-being. Dr. Nguyen has helped over 5,000 patients achieve lasting weight loss transformation in the San Jose and South Bay Area.
Dr. Nguyen specializes in several advanced weight loss surgery procedures tailored to meet individual patient needs and goals. Each surgical option aims to promote substantial weight reduction, address obesity-related health conditions, and significantly improve patients’ overall quality of life.
Explore our range of bariatric surgery procedures below to discover which approach might be right for your weight loss journey and overall health transformation.
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This minimally invasive weight loss surgery removes approximately 80% of your stomach, creating a small sleeve-shaped stomach that limits food intake and reduces hunger hormones. Gastric sleeve surgery is the most commonly performed bariatric procedure worldwide.
What happens during gastric sleeve surgery?
Using small laparoscopic incisions, your surgeon removes a large portion of your stomach while preserving its natural pathway. The remaining stomach is shaped into a narrow tube or "sleeve" about the size of a banana. The entire gastric sleeve procedure typically takes 60-90 minutes under general anesthesia using advanced robotic surgical techniques.
Benefits of Gastric Sleeve Surgery:
Significant and sustainable weight loss (typically 60-70% of excess weight)
Reduced hunger sensations due to hormonal changes
No rerouting of the intestines or foreign devices implanted
Improved or resolved obesity-related conditions like type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure
Shorter recovery time compared to gastric bypass surgery
Gastric sleeve surgery offers a powerful combination of volume restriction and hormonal changes that help Bay Area patients achieve lasting weight loss while improving their overall quality of life.
This gold-standard weight loss surgery creates a small stomach pouch and reroutes the digestive tract to promote substantial weight loss and metabolic improvements. Gastric bypass surgery is considered the most effective surgical treatment for severe obesity and diabetes.
What happens during gastric bypass surgery?
Your surgeon creates a small egg-sized stomach pouch and connects it directly to the middle portion of your small intestine, bypassing the rest of the stomach and upper intestinal tract. This dual-approach procedure typically takes 2-3 hours and is performed laparoscopically through small incisions using the da Vinci robotic surgical system.
Benefits of Gastric Bypass Surgery:
Dramatic weight loss results (typically 70-80% of excess weight)
Immediate improvement in type 2 diabetes and metabolic conditions
Reduced hunger and increased feeling of fullness
Long-term success with proper lifestyle changes
Excellent results for diabetes remission
Gastric bypass surgery offers one of the most powerful surgical tools against severe obesity and its related conditions, providing San Jose and Los Gatos patients with both immediate metabolic benefits and a pathway to long-term health transformation.
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This specialized weight loss surgery addresses complications or insufficient results from previous bariatric procedures, restoring the path to health and weight management. Revision bariatric surgery requires advanced surgical expertise and careful evaluation.
What happens during revision surgery?
Your surgeon carefully evaluates your current anatomy and previous procedure to determine the optimal approach, which may involve converting one type of bariatric surgery to another or repairing existing modifications. The revision procedure's complexity varies based on your specific situation and typically takes 2-4 hours.
Benefits of Revision Bariatric Surgery:
Renewed weight loss potential when previous results have plateaued
Resolution of complications from prior surgery
Improvement of associated health conditions
Regained sense of control over eating and satiety
Revision bariatric surgery offers hope and renewed opportunity for those facing challenges after their initial weight loss procedure, providing tailored solutions that address both physical and emotional aspects of the weight loss journey.
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All our bariatric surgery procedures are performed by our highly trained surgical team using state-of-the-art equipment and advanced minimally invasive techniques. We're committed to providing you with the most effective, life-changing weight loss surgery options because we believe you deserve:
Significant and sustainable weight loss results
Improvement or resolution of obesity-related health conditions
Reduced need for medications for conditions like diabetes and hypertension
Enhanced mobility and physical comfort
Improved quality of life and self-confidence
Lower lifetime healthcare costs and fewer obesity-related medical visits
Dr. Richard Nguyen is a board-certified General Surgeon with over 20 years of surgical expertise and fellowship training in Minimally Invasive and Bariatric Surgery from Vanderbilt University. Since establishing his weight loss surgery practice in San Jose in 2007, he has pioneered innovative surgical techniques, including single-incision laparoscopic procedures and mastery of the da Vinci Robotic Surgical System.
Beyond his acclaimed bariatric surgery practice, he has earned national recognition for his specialized expertise in both non-mesh and advanced mesh hernia repairs, while also serving as a critical approach surgeon for anterior spine access procedures. Dr. Nguyen combines technical precision with personalized care across multiple premier facilities throughout the South Bay Area.
Over 5,000+ successful weight loss transformations and 10,000+ surgeries performed
I would refer Doctor Nguyen to anyone; in fact, I have, and they have all had the same experience as me. He is truly great. I owe all my weight loss success to Doctor Nguyen, and I thank him for all the work he has done for me and continues to do so. He is extremely amazing, and I am very grateful to him.
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At 50, I now have a life I had only dreamed of a year before. My body tells me if I am done eating. This weight loss surgery is a tool that I have used to the fullest. It is not an easy way out. It still took work. But I honestly know that I would not be living this amazing new life if I didn't step forward to embrace this life-saving surgery.
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Dr. Nguyen has changed my life completely. I feel so much better, and I also feel like I've got control of my life again…I had high blood pressure, diabetes, and cholesterol. I took at least 5 different medications for the past 30 years. NOW, after bariatric surgery, I take no medications, only vitamins!
Life-Changing Health Improvements from Bariatric Surgery
Bariatric surgery offers life-changing benefits for those struggling with severe obesity. Beyond significant weight loss, it can dramatically improve or resolve many serious health conditions associated with obesity. Research shows that approximately 300,000 deaths in America annually are linked to obesity-related complications, making this surgical intervention potentially life-saving for many patients.
Following weight loss surgery, patients typically experience remarkable health improvements, often within just a few months. Medical conditions that may be greatly improved include:
Type 2 Diabetes: More than 90% of patients achieve excellent diabetes remission results, usually within weeks, including normal blood sugar levels, normal Hemoglobin A1C values, and freedom from diabetes medications, including insulin. No other medical treatment can achieve such profound effects for diabetes management.
High Blood Pressure: At least 70% of patients who take medications for hypertension can stop all blood pressure medications and achieve normal blood pressure within 2-3 months after weight loss surgery.
High Cholesterol: More than 80% of patients develop normal cholesterol levels within 2-3 months following the bariatric procedure.
Sleep Apnea: Dramatic relief occurs as weight is lost, with many patients completely resolving their sleep apnea symptoms within a year and no longer needing CPAP machines.
Joint Pain and Arthritis: Patients typically experience considerable relief from degenerative arthritis and back pain, often with the first 25-30 pounds lost within a month after surgery.
Respiratory Problems: Improved breathing ability and exercise tolerance usually occur within the first few months, allowing many patients to participate in activities they previously couldn't manage.
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Relief of all acid reflux symptoms usually occurs within days of surgery for nearly all patients.
Stress Urinary Incontinence: This condition responds dramatically to surgical weight loss and typically becomes completely controlled.
Heart Disease: While direct reduction can't be definitively proven, improvements in related conditions like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes suggest significant cardiovascular risk reduction.
Weight loss surgery is worth considering when traditional weight loss methods have been unsuccessful and your health is at risk due to obesity. Our San Jose Area bariatric surgery team is committed to helping you determine if this transformative option aligns with your health goals and personal circumstances.
Determining Your Eligibility for Bariatric Surgery
Candidates for weight loss surgery typically have a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher (approximately 100 pounds overweight) or a BMI of 35-39.9 with obesity-related health conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or sleep apnea. We also consider San Jose area patients who have tried multiple structured weight loss programs without achieving lasting results.
During your bariatric surgery consultation, our experienced surgical team will review your complete medical history, weight loss attempts, and current health status to determine if weight loss surgery is the right option for your unique situation. Our goal is to help you find the most effective path to improved health and quality of life.
What to Expect from Your Bariatric Surgery Results
Weight loss surgery is typically considered successful when a patient loses 50 percent or more of their excess body weight. However, success extends far beyond the numbers on a scale. Many patients experience significant health improvements that can be life-changing or even lifesaving—such as resolution of type 2 diabetes, reduced blood pressure, improved sleep apnea, decreased joint pain, and enhanced mobility.
While complete loss of excess weight is uncommon, the health benefits achieved often dramatically improve quality of life and longevity. It's important to understand that bariatric surgery is a powerful tool, not a quick fix. Long-term weight loss success depends on your commitment to adopting new lifestyle habits, including regular physical activity, mindful eating patterns, and ongoing follow-up care with our San Jose bariatric team.
Your Recovery Journey After Weight Loss Surgery
Yes, there are temporary activity restrictions following weight loss surgery to ensure proper healing and optimal results. During your initial recovery period, strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and intense exercise should be avoided to allow your body time to heal properly. However, walking is not only permitted but strongly encouraged as an essential part of your recovery process—it helps prevent complications like blood clots and promotes healthy circulation.
We advise patients not to drive while taking prescription pain medications, as these can impair judgment and reaction time. Most patients can switch to over-the-counter pain relievers like Tylenol within a few days after surgery, at which point driving may be resumed if you feel comfortable.
During your first follow-up appointment, your surgeon will evaluate your progress and provide personalized guidance about returning to work and gradually increasing activity levels. While recovery varies by individual and procedure type, most patients return to work within three to six weeks after weight loss surgery.
Understanding Your Bariatric Surgery Benefits
Many insurance companies now recognize obesity as a substantial health risk and do provide coverage for bariatric surgery procedures. However, coverage varies significantly between insurance providers and specific plans. Most insurers require documentation of medical necessity, which typically includes:
A body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher, or BMI of 35-39.9 with obesity-related health conditions
Evidence of previous structured weight loss attempts
Medical records documenting obesity-related health problems
Psychological evaluation confirming readiness for surgery
Participation in a medically supervised weight loss program
We recommend contacting your insurance provider directly to understand your specific coverage details, and our San Jose bariatric surgery team is always available to help you understand the process and maximize your benefits for these life-changing procedures.
Your Nutrition Journey After Weight Loss Surgery
Following bariatric surgery, you will need to follow a structured dietary progression that allows your newly modified digestive system to heal while providing essential nutrition. This process typically unfolds in several phases over the first few months after weight loss surgery:
Phase 1 (1-2 weeks): Clear liquids and protein shakes to allow for initial healing
Phase 2 (2-4 weeks): Pureed foods with a focus on protein sources
Phase 3 (4-6 weeks): Soft foods that are easy to digest
Phase 4 (6+ weeks): Gradual transition to regular healthy foods
Long-term dietary guidelines typically include eating smaller, protein-focused meals; chewing food thoroughly; separating liquids from solid foods; avoiding sugary, high-fat, and highly processed foods; and staying well-hydrated throughout the day.
We strongly recommend working with a registered dietitian who specializes in bariatric nutrition, as professional guidance is crucial for optimal weight loss results. Regular consultations with a dietitian can help ensure you're getting adequate nutrition while maximizing your weight loss surgery results.
Building Your Fitness Foundation
Exercise is a vital component of your post-surgical recovery and long-term weight loss success. Light exercise, particularly walking, should begin almost immediately after weight loss surgery—even while you're still in the hospital. These gentle movements promote healing, reduce the risk of blood clots, and help prevent complications.
During your first month after bariatric surgery:
Start with short, gentle walks several times daily
Gradually increase your walking distance and time as your energy improves
Focus on proper breathing and maintaining good posture
Avoid lifting anything heavier than 10-15 pounds
By weeks 4-6, many patients can begin incorporating more varied activities as approved by their surgeon. More vigorous exercise will typically be introduced around 6-8 weeks post-surgery, assuming your recovery is progressing well.
Exercise offers numerous benefits beyond weight loss—it helps preserve muscle mass during rapid weight loss, improves cardiovascular health, enhances mood through endorphin release, and increases your overall energy levels. Many patients find that regaining the ability to engage in physical activities they once enjoyed is one of the most rewarding aspects of their bariatric surgery journey.
What to Expect: Your Weight Loss Journey
Weight loss after bariatric surgery follows a predictable but individualized pattern. Excess weight loss begins immediately after surgery and typically continues steadily for 18-24 months, though individual experiences may vary.
During the first three months, patients often experience rapid weight loss as their body adjusts to the surgical changes and reduced caloric intake. Many patients lose 25-35% of their excess weight during this initial phase. The rate of weight loss then typically slows but remains steady through the first year, when most patients achieve 60-70% of their total excess weight loss.
Weight loss generally continues at a slower pace during the second year, with many patients reaching their maximum weight loss between 18-24 months after bariatric surgery. After this period, weights typically stabilize, and the focus shifts to maintaining the significant results achieved.
Several factors influence your specific weight loss timeline, including:
The type of bariatric procedure you undergo
Your starting BMI and health status
Your adherence to dietary guidelines
Your exercise routine and physical activity level
Your metabolism and genetic factors
Maintaining Your Weight Loss Surgery Success
Yes, it is possible to regain weight after bariatric surgery, though weight loss surgery procedures have an excellent long-term track record for helping individuals with severe obesity maintain significant weight loss compared to non-surgical approaches. Understanding the factors that influence long-term success can help you maintain your results.
Most patients reach their maximum weight loss around 18-24 months after surgery. After this period, some degree of weight fluctuation is normal, and minor weight regain (5-10 pounds) is not uncommon. However, substantial weight regain is preventable in most cases with proper adherence to post-surgical guidelines.
Key factors that help prevent weight regain include:
Consistent adherence to the recommended dietary guidelines
Regular physical activity and exercise
Attending all scheduled follow-up appointments
Participating in support groups or counseling when needed
Addressing emotional or stress-related eating patterns
Monitoring nutritional intake and vitamin levels
Even if some weight regain occurs, it typically represents only a fraction of the original weight loss, and most patients maintain significant improvements in their health and quality of life.
Remember that bariatric surgery is a powerful tool, but long-term success depends on your commitment to permanent lifestyle changes. With dedication and proper support, most San Jose patients maintain life-changing results for many years.
Understanding Weight Loss Surgery Safety
Like any major surgery, bariatric procedures involve certain risks that should be carefully considered. In general, the more extensive the operation, the greater the potential for complications. Understanding these risks is an important part of making an informed decision about weight loss surgery.
Potential surgical complications include:
Abdominal hernias (more common with "open" surgery than laparoscopic procedures)
Leakage through staples or sutures (rare)
Ulcers in the stomach or small intestine
Blood clots in the lungs or legs
Stretching of the pouch or esophagus
Persistent vomiting and abdominal pain
Inflammation of the gallbladder
Failure to lose weight (very rare)
Gallstone formation is a common concern, affecting more than one-third of bariatric patients during rapid weight loss. This risk can be reduced with preventative medication taken for the first six months after surgery.
Long-term health considerations include:
Nutritional deficiencies (affecting nearly 30% of patients) such as anemia, osteoporosis, and metabolic bone disease, which can be prevented with lifelong vitamin and mineral supplementation
Medication restrictions, particularly non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen and aspirin-containing products
Increased health risks from smoking, which can cause ulcers after surgery
For women of childbearing age, pregnancy should be avoided for 18-24 months after surgery until weight stabilizes, as rapid weight loss and nutritional deficiencies can affect fetal development.
Modern laparoscopic and robotic surgical techniques have reduced many surgical risks, resulting in smaller incisions, shorter hospital stays, and quicker recovery periods compared to traditional open surgery approaches.
Wondering which surgical procedure might be right for your condition? We're here to help you understand your treatment options and develop a personalized surgical plan. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation.
Your path to improved health may be more achievable than you think—with advanced surgical techniques leading to faster recovery, reduced complications, and a significantly enhanced quality of life.
Most patients undergoing bariatric surgery will be admitted for a one-night stay and be discharged the following day. Your surgical team will monitor your initial recovery, including pain management, hydration, and mobility. For some patients requiring additional observation, hospital stays can be extended on a case-by-case basis.
During your first week after surgery, you'll follow a full-liquid diet until your initial post-operative appointment, which allows your newly modified digestive system to heal properly. Your bariatric manual contains detailed information about dietary progression stages, recommended protein intake, hydration requirements, and supplement schedules.
For laparoscopic procedures, your incisions are closed with a special medical-grade adhesive. You may shower or bathe the day after surgery. No special dressings or bandages are needed. Avoid swimming pools and hot tubs for at least 2 weeks. Monitor for signs of infection (redness, swelling, discharge, increased pain).
Do not drive while taking prescription pain medications. Resume driving once you've switched to over-the-counter pain relief. Most patients return to driving within 1-2 weeks. Only drive when you feel comfortable and can react quickly if needed.
For the first 4 weeks after surgery: crush medications or take in liquid form when possible, avoid extended-release medications and soft gels, discuss diuretic medications with your physician, and consult our team before starting any new medications.
Coffee: Only decaffeinated coffee for the first 4 weeks, as caffeine can irritate your healing stomach. Alcohol: Generally acceptable after about 4 weeks (varies by patient). Effects may be more intense after surgery. Carbonated beverages should be avoided indefinitely.