Gastric Sleeve
If you’re considering gastric sleeve surgery, you’re probably wondering what the procedure entails. Here’s a quick overview:
During gastric sleeve surgery, also called vertical sleeve gastrectomy, a large portion of the stomach is removed, leaving a narrow “sleeve” of stomach remaining. The surgery is performed through several small incisions in the abdomen, and requires only general anesthesia.
The gastric sleeve procedure has a number of benefits for patients who are struggling with obesity. First, it significantly reduces the size of the stomach, which means that patients feel full more quickly and eat less overall. This can lead to dramatic weight loss in a short period of time. Additionally, gastric sleeve surgery has been shown to improve or resolve many obesity-related health conditions, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and sleep apnea.
How is a gastric sleeve fitted?
Surgeons performing gastric sleeve surgery will make several small incisions in the patient’s abdomen. A gastric sleeve is then inserted through these incisions and fitted to the stomach. The gastric sleeve is usually made from a piece of mesh, which is stitched into place. The surgeon will then close the incisions with stitches or staples.
Suitable candidates
Gastric sleeve surgery is usually recommended for patients who are struggling to lose weight through diet and exercise alone. It is also often recommended for patients who have obesity-related health conditions, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or sleep apnea.
Things to consider
If you’re considering gastric sleeve surgery, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, the surgery is irreversible, so it’s important to be sure that you’re ready to make a permanent change. Additionally, gastric sleeve surgery is not a “quick fix” and requires significant lifestyle changes after the procedure. Finally, gastric sleeve surgery is considered major surgery and carries some risks, such as infection, bleeding, and blood clots.
Pros and cons of gastric sleeve surgery
Like any surgery, gastric sleeve surgery has both advantages and disadvantages. gastric sleeve surgery may be right for you if:
- You are significantly overweight
- You have not been able to lose weight through diet and exercise alone
- You have obesity-related health conditions, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or sleep apnea
- You are committed to making lifestyle changes after the surgery
However, gastric sleeve surgery may not be right for you if:
- You are not ready to make a permanent change
- You are not willing to commit to lifestyle changes after the surgery
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding
- You have a history of mental illness
Are there any age limits?
There is no age limit for gastric sleeve surgery, but ourt surgeons prefer to wait until patients are at least 18 years old.
How much weight will I lose?
Most patients lose between 50 and 80 percent of their excess body weight within the first year after gastric sleeve surgery. However, weight loss may vary depending on a number of factors, such as the patient’s starting weight, commitment to lifestyle changes, and overall health.
How long does the procedure take?
Gastric sleeve surgery usually takes between one and two hours to complete.
Is it a painful?
Most patients report only mild discomfort after gastric sleeve surgery. However, pain is relative and some patients may experience more discomfort than others.
Length of hospital stay
Most patients stay in the hospital for one to two days after gastric sleeve surgery.
Recovery phase
Most patients take two to four weeks to recover from gastric sleeve surgery. During the recovery phase, it is important to:
- Drink plenty of fluids
- Eat a healthy, balanced diet
- Get plenty of rest
- Avoid strenuous activity
When can I return to work?
Most patients can return to work within two weeks of gastric sleeve surgery. However, some patients may need to take more time off depending on their job and level of discomfort.
Results
Gastric sleeve surgery is usually successful in helping patients lose weight and improve obesity-related health conditions. However, the surgery is not a “quick fix” and requires lifestyle changes to be successful.
Book a consultation
If you’re considering gastric sleeve surgery, we can help. We offer free, confidential consultations with our experienced team of weight loss surgeons.
Book a call back
Let us call you back at a date and time that suits you. We’ll only call you within the selected time slot.
100% Secure
Your information is 100% secure and will not be shared with any 3rd parties.
