All you need to know about sleeve gastrectomy

Is a gastric Sleeve a reversible procedure?

Sleeve gastrectomy is a weight loss surgery that involves removing a large portion of the stomach, leaving a smaller, sleeve-shaped stomach. This limits the amount of food that can be consumed and reduces the feeling of hunger, leading to weight loss.

Sleeve gastrectomy is considered a irreversible surgery, which means that the stomach cannot be restored to its original size or shape. Once the stomach is removed, it cannot be put back. The procedure is considered a permanent change to the anatomy.

However, in some rare cases, revision surgeries can be performed to correct complications or improve weight loss outcomes after sleeve gastrectomy. These revision surgeries, such as conversion to a gastric bypass, can be complex and carry additional risks.

It’s important to keep in mind that weight loss surgery should be considered as a last resort, after other weight loss methods, such as lifestyle changes, have been tried and failed. It’s important to have realistic expectations about the surgery and its potential impact on your life.

Sleeve gastrectomy before you start

Before considering a sleeve gastrectomy, it’s important to understand the potential risks, benefits, and requirements of the procedure. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

• Eligibility: Gastric sleeve surgery is typically recommended for individuals with a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or more, or a BMI of 35 or more with one or more obesity-related conditions such as diabetes or sleep apnea.
• Risks: All surgeries carry risks, such as bleeding, infection, and blood clots. Bariatric surgery also has specific risks such as hernias, bowel obstruction, and malnutrition.
• Benefits: Gastric sleeve surgery can lead to significant weight loss, and can also improve or resolve obesity-related health conditions such as diabetes, sleep apnea, and heart disease.
• Lifestyle Changes: Sleeve gastrectomy requires a lifelong commitment to healthy eating and regular physical activity. It is important to adhere to the diet and exercise regimen recommended by your surgeon, as well as to attend follow-up appointments and take any necessary vitamin and mineral supplements.
• Emotional Support: A sleeve can be a major life change, and it’s important to have support from family and friends. Some people also find it helpful to attend support groups or meet with a therapist before and after surgery.
• Cost: A gastric sleeve surgery can be expensive, and it’s important to check with your insurance provider to see what is covered and what out-of-pocket costs you will be responsible for.

It’s also important to discuss with your doctor about the different types of bariatric surgery and what may be best for you based on your health, lifestyle and weight loss goals.

How long does the stomach take to heal after a gastric sleeve?

The healing process after gastric sleeve surgery can vary depending on the individual, but typically it takes around 4-6 weeks for the stomach to heal. During this time, patients will need to follow a specific diet plan to ensure proper healing. They will typically start with clear liquids and gradually progress to solid foods. The diet will be high in protein and low in sugar and fat.

Patients will also need to take it easy during the first few weeks after surgery, and avoid strenuous activity. They may also experience some pain and discomfort, which can be managed with pain medication.

It’s important to note that full healing can take several months, and patients will need to continue to follow a healthy diet and exercise regimen to ensure the best possible outcome. It’s also important to attend regular follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor the healing process and address any concerns.

Sleeve or Bypass, what to choose?

The decision to choose between sleeve gastrectomy or gastric bypass depends on a variety of factors, including the patient’s individual medical history, weight loss goals, and lifestyle.

Sleeve gastrectomy: Sleeve gastrectomy is a weight loss surgery that involves removing a portion of the stomach to create a smaller stomach, which limits the amount of food that can be eaten. It is a less invasive procedure compared to gastric bypass, it is typically recommended for patients with a BMI of 30-50, and patients can expect to lose 50-70% of their excess weight within the first year after surgery.

Gastric Bypass: Gastric bypass, also known as Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, is a surgical weight loss procedure that involves creating a small stomach pouch and rerouting the small intestine to this new pouch. This limits the amount of food that can be eaten and reduces the absorption of calories. Gastric bypass is a more complex procedure and is typically recommended for patients who have a BMI of 40 or more, or a BMI of 35 or more with one or more obesity-related conditions such as diabetes or sleep apnea.

Both procedures have their own specific pros and cons, it’s important to discuss with a qualified healthcare professional about the different options and which one would be the best fit for you based on your health status, lifestyle, and weight loss goals. It’s also important to keep in mind that both procedures require a lifelong commitment to healthy eating and regular physical activity, and close follow-up with a healthcare professional.

Sleeve gastrectomy for a pregnant woman

Gastric sleeve surgery, also known as sleeve gastrectomy, is a weight loss surgery that involves removing a large portion of the stomach, leaving a smaller, sleeve-shaped stomach. This limits the amount of food that can be consumed and reduces the feeling of hunger, leading to weight loss.

It is generally not recommended for pregnant women to undergo gastric sleeve surgery due to the potential risks to the mother and the developing fetus. Pregnancy can also affect the weight loss results of the surgery, as weight gain is a normal part of pregnancy.

Additionally, gastric sleeve surgery is a major surgery that requires a significant recovery period and can cause a number of complications. It’s important for pregnant women to consult with their obstetrician and a bariatric surgeon to evaluate the risks and benefits of the surgery during pregnancy.

It’s also important to consider that pregnancy can be a great opportunity to focus on healthy eating and exercise habits, which can help with weight loss and improve overall health.