Sleeve Gastrectomy

What is Sleeve Gastrectomy?

Sleeve Gastrectomy, also known as gastric sleeve surgery, is a highly effective weight loss procedure that involves the removal of a large portion of the stomach. This results in a smaller, sleeve-shaped stomach, which helps patients feel full sooner and consume less food. It is one of the most popular bariatric surgeries due to its relatively low risk and significant weight loss results.

How Does Sleeve Gastrectomy Work?

During the procedure, approximately 75% of the stomach is removed, leaving behind a small, tube-like structure that resembles a sleeve. The remaining stomach is about the size of a banana. This reduction in stomach size limits the amount of food that can be consumed, helping patients lose weight by controlling hunger and promoting a feeling of fullness after eating only small amounts.

In addition to the restriction on food intake, Sleeve Gastrectomy also impacts the production of ghrelin, the hormone responsible for hunger. With a reduced stomach size, ghrelin levels are significantly lowered, which decreases appetite and helps patients stay satisfied with smaller portions.

Benefits of Sleeve Gastrectomy

Effective Weight Loss: Patients can expect to lose a significant amount of weight in the first 6 to 12 months after surgery, with a majority of individuals losing 50-70% of their excess weight.
Minimal Risk of Complications: Compared to other bariatric surgeries, Sleeve Gastrectomy has fewer long-term risks and requires no bypassing of the intestines, which reduces complications.
Improved Health Conditions: Many patients experience improvements or even resolution of obesity-related health issues such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and sleep apnea.
Quick Recovery: The procedure is typically performed laparoscopically, meaning it involves smaller incisions and results in quicker healing and shorter hospital stays.

The Procedure

Sleeve Gastrectomy is typically performed under general anesthesia and takes about 1 to 2 hours. It is usually done laparoscopically, meaning the surgeon makes small incisions and uses a camera to guide the surgery. This minimally invasive technique allows for faster recovery and less post-operative discomfort compared to traditional open surgery.

After surgery, patients will need to follow a specific diet plan that starts with clear liquids and gradually progresses to solid foods over the course of several weeks.

Who is a Good Candidate for Sleeve Gastrectomy?

Sleeve Gastrectomy is generally recommended for individuals who:

Are severely obese with a BMI of 40 or higher, or have a BMI of 35-40 with obesity-related health conditions.
Have been unsuccessful in losing weight through diet and exercise.
Are committed to making long-term lifestyle changes, including following a healthy diet and engaging in regular physical activity.
Do not have any medical conditions that may make surgery risky.

It is important to consult with a qualified bariatric surgeon to determine if Sleeve Gastrectomy is right for you.

Post-Surgery Care and Lifestyle Changes

After the procedure, patients must make lifelong changes to their eating habits, physical activity levels, and overall lifestyle. Some important aspects of post-surgery care include:

Diet: A structured eating plan will be followed to ensure proper nutrition while adjusting to a smaller stomach. Patients will need to eat small, nutritious meals and avoid overeating.
Exercise: Regular physical activity will be encouraged to help achieve and maintain weight loss.
Follow-Up Appointments: Regular check-ups with the healthcare team will help monitor progress and address any concerns.
Psychological Support: Emotional and mental health support is essential for long-term success. Many patients find it beneficial to join support groups to share experiences and advice.

Is Sleeve Gastrectomy Right for You?

If you are struggling with obesity and have tried other weight loss methods without success, Sleeve Gastrectomy could be the solution you need to achieve lasting weight loss and improve your health. At Parea Medical, we are dedicated to helping you make informed decisions about your health and offer personalized care throughout your weight loss journey.