Gastric sleeve surgery, or sleeve gastrectomy, is a bariatric procedure that involves removing a portion of the stomach to reduce its size significantly. The remaining stomach is shaped like a tube or "sleeve," which limits the amount of food you can eat and promotes weight loss by restricting calorie intake.
What to Expect:
- Procedure: The surgeon removes approximately 75-80% of the stomach, leaving a narrow tube that holds less food. The procedure is usually performed laparoscopically, requiring small incisions and a camera to guide the surgeon.
- Effectiveness: Gastric sleeve surgery can result in significant weight loss, often between 50-70% of excess weight. It also improves obesity-related conditions like type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and sleep apnea.
- Safety: Risks include infection, bleeding, leaks from the stapled stomach, and nutritional deficiencies. However, it generally has a lower complication rate compared to other bariatric surgeries.
- Consultation: Patients undergo comprehensive assessments to determine their suitability for surgery. It's typically recommended for individuals with a BMI over 40 or a BMI over 35 with associated health conditions.
Things to Consider:
- Recovery: Recovery takes several weeks, with patients often advised to follow a strict diet plan starting with liquids and gradually transitioning to solid foods.
- Lifestyle Changes: Long-term lifestyle changes are necessary for success, including dietary modifications, regular exercise, and medical follow-up to monitor progress and manage potential nutritional deficiencies.
Other Information:
- Lifelong vitamin and mineral supplements are usually required to prevent deficiencies.
- Regular medical follow-ups are essential to monitor weight loss progress and overall health.
- Support groups and counseling can help patients navigate the emotional and psychological aspects of weight loss.
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