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A gastrectomy is a specialized surgical procedure that involves removing all or part of the stomach—a vital digestive organ responsible for food storage and initial digestion. At our practice, we understand that major digestive surgery creates significant concerns about nutrition and quality of life afterward. That's why we're committed to providing compassionate, expert care while helping you understand each step of your treatment journey.
This complex procedure effectively treats conditions such as stomach cancer, severe peptic ulcer disease, gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs), and other disorders affecting stomach function and health. Our gastrectomy approach utilizes advanced minimally invasive techniques when appropriate, including laparoscopic and robotic-assisted methods that enhance precision during this anatomically challenging procedure. We implement specialized reconstruction techniques based on the extent of stomach removal, creating optimal digestive pathways while prioritizing nutritional absorption and long-term quality of life through comprehensive pre- and post-operative support programs.
You may need a gastrectomy if you experience:
Diagnosed stomach (gastric) cancer requiring surgical treatment
Large or multiple gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs)
Recurrent or complicated peptic ulcers not responding to medical management
Perforated stomach ulcers with severe complications
Gastroparesis (delayed stomach emptying) that severely affects quality of life
Corrosive injury to the stomach from accidental chemical ingestion
Trauma to the stomach requiring surgical intervention
Morbid obesity requiring surgical treatment (sleeve gastrectomy)
Polyps with high-risk features that cannot be removed endoscopically
Gastric outlet obstruction that is not manageable with less invasive techniques
Severe bleeding from the stomach, not controllable with endoscopic methods
Our approach to gastrectomy combines precision with personalized care. The procedure begins with comprehensive preoperative planning, including advanced imaging, endoscopy, and nutritional assessment to optimize your condition before surgery. What distinguishes us is our surgeon's expertise in both open and minimally invasive techniques, with selection based on your specific condition, tumor location, and overall health status. We perform various types of gastrectomy—total (complete stomach removal), subtotal (partial removal), or sleeve gastrectomy—tailored to your specific diagnosis and needs.
Our distinctive approach includes meticulous lymph node dissection for cancer cases following oncologic principles while preserving critical surrounding structures. We excel in specialized reconstruction techniques after stomach removal, creating optimal connections between the esophagus and small intestine through methods such as Roux-en-Y, Billroth I, or Billroth II procedures based on individual patient factors.
Throughout your care journey, we implement enhanced recovery protocols specific to gastric surgery, incorporating optimal pain management, early mobilization, and carefully planned nutritional support. Our multidisciplinary team includes dedicated nutritionists who provide specialized guidance before and after surgery, helping you adapt to altered digestive function and maintain optimal nutrition during the significant adjustment period following stomach removal.
Immediate Post-Procedure (1-7 days)
Expect a hospital stay of 5-10 days depending on the extent of surgery and recovery progress
Receive nutrition initially through IV or feeding tube in some cases
Progress cautiously from clear liquids to pureed foods when cleared by your surgeon
Participate in early ambulation protocols despite fatigue, walking with assistance within 24-48 hours
Use patient-controlled analgesia or multimodal pain management to control discomfort
Work with respiratory therapy on deep breathing exercises to prevent lung complications
Monitor surgical drains that record output from the surgical area
Meet with the nutritionist to review your specific dietary progression plan
Learn to take small, frequent meals once oral intake begins
Prepare for discharge with clear understanding of your nutritional needs and medication schedule
Short-Term Recovery (1-4 weeks)
Attend your follow-up appointment (typically 10-14 days after surgery)
Focus on nutritional intake with 6-8 small meals daily to maintain energy and healing
Track protein intake carefully, aiming for the target set by your nutritionist
Follow dietary texture progression from pureed to soft foods as directed
Continue vitamin and mineral supplementation as prescribed
Walk multiple times daily, gradually increasing distance as strength improves
Avoid lifting anything heavier than 10 pounds for at least 4-6 weeks
Monitor for signs of dumping syndrome (rapid emptying of contents into small intestine)
Learn techniques to manage early satiety (feeling full quickly)
Report any persistent nausea, vomiting, or inability to maintain adequate intake
Expect fatigue that gradually improves as nutritional status stabilizes
Long-Term Adjustment (1-6 months)
Continue working with your nutritionist to optimize dietary intake
Gradually advance to more normal food textures while maintaining small portion sizes
Monitor weight closely, reporting significant changes to your healthcare team
Manage dumping syndrome through dietary modifications if experiencing symptoms
Address vitamin B12, iron, calcium, and vitamin D levels with appropriate supplementation
Return to more normal activities and exercise as energy levels improve
Adjust medication schedules and dosages as needed with physician guidance
Begin to identify foods that are well tolerated versus those that cause discomfort
Continue regular follow-up visits to monitor nutritional status
Expect steady improvement in energy levels and food tolerance over time
Join support groups with others who have undergone similar procedures if helpful
Long-Term Expectations
Complete internal healing occurs within 3-6 months
Subtle surgical traces that continue to refine over 12-18 months
Adaptation to new eating patterns becomes routine with time
Most patients achieve stable weight and nutritional status by 6-12 months
Lifelong vitamin B12 injections or high-dose oral supplements typically needed after total gastrectomy
Regular monitoring of iron, calcium, and vitamin D levels
Follow-up imaging and endoscopy scheduled according to your condition and surgical findings
For cancer patients, ongoing surveillance per oncologic guidelines
Most patients report good quality of life once adaptation is complete
Comfortable management of smaller, more frequent meals
Ability to return to desired activities with appropriate nutritional planning
Annual nutritional assessments help ensure continued health
Common Side Effects
Early satiety (feeling full after small amounts of food)
Weight loss during initial adjustment period
Dumping syndrome (rapid emptying of contents into small intestine)
Need for dietary modifications and smaller, more frequent meals
Vitamin and mineral deficiencies requiring supplementation
Temporary fatigue during nutritional adjustment
Altered taste sensations that typically improve with time
Mild indigestion or reflux requiring management
Temporary food intolerances during adaptation
Less Common Complications
Anastomotic leak (separation at connection sites, 2-7% risk)
Delayed gastric emptying after partial gastrectomy
Gastroparesis (impaired stomach emptying)
Stricture formation at surgical connections
Surgical site infection (surface or deep)
Bleeding requiring transfusion or reoperation
Afferent loop syndrome after Billroth II reconstruction
Internal hernias after Roux-en-Y reconstruction
Small bowel obstruction due to adhesions
Dumping syndrome that persists despite dietary management
Bile reflux gastritis in partial gastrectomy
Malnutrition requiring specialized intervention
Incisional hernia development
When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Fever over 101°F (38.3°C)
Severe, worsening abdominal pain
Persistent nausea or vomiting
Inability to tolerate liquids for 24 hours
Significant bloating or abdominal distension
Dark or bloody stools
Significant redness, warmth, swelling, or drainage at incision sites
Reopening of any surgical wound
Chest pain or difficulty breathing
Severe weakness, dizziness, or fainting
Rapid heart rate or palpitations after eating (severe dumping)
Severe diarrhea or dehydration
From your first consultation through your complete recovery, we provide:
Thorough evaluation and explanation of your condition
Clear discussion of all treatment options, including non-surgical alternatives when appropriate
Detailed pre-operative instructions to help you prepare
Compassionate care during your hospital stay or outpatient procedure
Comprehensive follow-up care and support during recovery
Ongoing availability to address questions or concerns
We understand that facing head and neck surgery can be intimidating, but you don't have to navigate this journey alone. Our team is committed to providing expert care with a personal touch, ensuring you feel supported, informed, and confident every step of the way.
Your health and wellbeing are our highest priorities, and we're honored to be part of your care team.
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All our laparoscopic procedures are performed by our highly trained surgical team using state-of-the-art equipment and techniques.
We're committed to providing you with the most advanced, minimally invasive options because we believe you deserve:
Less pain after surgery
Shorter hospital stays
Faster return to work and activities you enjoy
Smaller, less visible scars
Lower risk of complications
Better overall outcomes
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 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.
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 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 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 surgery I take no medications only vitamins!
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.