About Sleeve Gastrectomy
Richmond University Medical Center’s Bariatric & Metabolic Institute offers several types of weight-loss surgical procedures, one of which is the sleeve gastrectomy. Sleeve gastrectomy is one of the most popular weight-loss procedures worldwide and has helped hundreds of thousands of people lose excess body weight. Learn more about this procedure below.
Understanding the Operation
During a sleeve gastrectomy, a portion of the stomach is surgically removed. Typically, about 70 – 80% of the stomach is taken out, leaving behind a narrow, tube-shaped stomach. The purpose of reducing the size of the stomach is to restrict the amount of food a person is able to eat at one time. It can also help prompt certain hormonal changes which contribute to weight loss. Within the first year after having a sleeve gastrectomy, most patients are expected to lose anywhere from 40 – 70% of their excess body weight.
This procedure is commonly performed laparoscopically. A series of small incisions are made on the upper abdomen, through which the surgeon can insert small instruments. Because laparoscopic surgery is minimally invasive, there’s generally a reduced risk of complications and a faster recovery time. However, sleeve gastrectomy can also be performed through open surgery.
What to Expect After Bariatric Sleeve Surgery
After surgery, you’ll start on a liquid diet before gradually moving to pureed foods. After about three weeks, you’ll be able to eat regular foods again. You’ll also have to take supplements and vitamins and come in for frequent checkups to make sure recovery is going well. Over time, most patients are able to enjoy significant long-term weight loss, better quality of life and better health. A sleeve gastrectomy can even help resolve conditions like type 2 diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol and more. However, to achieve optimal results, individuals must develop and maintain healthy eating and exercise habits as directed by their doctor.
Deciding If Bariatric Sleeve Surgery Is Right for You
If you’re unable to lose weight through diet and exercise alone, a sleeve gastrectomy could be right for you. The average candidate has a body mass index (BMI) between 35 and 40 or greater. Many also have serious life-threatening health conditions related to obesity, such as heart disease and type 2 diabetes, which may be treated with the help of weight-loss surgery.
Because sleeve gastrectomy is a permanent procedure, it’s important to consider how it will affect you now and in the future. Talk to your doctor about how the surgery will impact your diet and lifestyle and about any possible side effects and complications. Take time to consider other weight-loss options as well, so you can feel confident you’re making the right decision.
Schedule an Appointment Today
If you’re ready to enjoy a happier, healthier and longer life and think bariatric sleeve surgery might be a good path for you, schedule a consultation at the Richmond University Medical Center. Our bariatric specialists are highly experienced and knowledgeable about many types of weight-loss surgery. Call the Bariatric & Metabolic Institute at (718)-818-4020 to get started.
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