VERTICAL SLEEVE GASTRECTOMY
VERTICAL SLEEVE Gastrectomy
Vertical →
SLEEVE GASTRECTOMY
Vertical sleeve gastrectomy is a pivotal weight-loss surgery that significantly alters the stomach’s size, paving the way for substantial weight reduction. The transformative procedure helps in shedding excess weight while also playing a crucial role in enhancing the overall quality of life for those with various obesity-related health conditions.
Today, we’ll look into the intricacies of sleeve gastrectomy, shedding light on its benefits, the surgical process, candidacy, lifestyle adaptation post-surgery, and the journey toward recovery.
Skip to Benefits, Understanding the Procedure, Who is a Candidate, Recovery, FAQ’s.
Benefits Of
SLEEVE GASTRECTOMY
SIGNIFICANT WEIGHT LOSS
Patients typically experience a remarkable weight reduction, losing as much as 60-70% of their excess weight within the first two years
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following surgery. Patients maintain this substantial weight loss by adhering to a healthy lifestyle.
IMPROVED CONDITIONS
The surgery has a profound impact on obesity-associated ailments. Conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and obstructive
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sleep apnea often see significant improvement or even complete resolution following the procedure.
MINIMALLY INVASIVE
Performed laparoscopically, sleeve gastrectomy involves small incisions, leading to a quicker recovery, minimal scarring, and reduced
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discomfort compared to traditional open surgeries. For many patients, this option is more approachable.
Significant Weight Loss
Patients typically experience a remarkable weight reduction, losing as much as 60-70% of their excess weight within the first two years following surgery. Patients maintain this substantial weight loss by adhering to a healthy lifestyle.
IMPROVED CONDITIONS
The surgery has a profound impact on obesity-associated ailments. Conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and obstructive sleep apnea often see significant improvement or even complete resolution following the procedure.
MINIMALLY INVASIVE
Performed laparoscopically, sleeve gastrectomy involves small incisions, leading to a quicker recovery, minimal scarring, and reduced discomfort compared to traditional open surgeries. For many patients, this option is more approachable.
What Is →
Sleeve Gastrectomy?
Sleeve gastrectomy involves bariatric surgeons removing approximately 80-85% of the stomach, transforming it into a slender, sleeve-shaped organ. This drastic reduction in stomach size naturally limits food intake. It also diminishes appetite, primarily due to decreased ghrelin, the hunger hormone.
Who Should Consider →
SLEEVE GASTRECTOMY?
ARE YOU A CANDIDATE?
Ideal candidates for vertical sleeve gastrectomy are patients who have a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 or more, as well as those with a BMI of 35-39 who also suffer from severe, obesity-related health conditions, such as diabetes or heart disease. The procedure is also an option for individuals who may not be eligible for or are interested in other weight-loss surgery for various reasons, including insurance limitations.
HEALTH CONSIDERATIONS
Beyond BMI, surgeons evaluate overall health, psychological readiness, and the commitment to lifelong dietary and lifestyle changes when considering a candidacy for sleeve gastrectomy.
Pros →
- Significant Weight Loss
- Reduced Hunger
- Digestive Tract Preservation
- Minimally Invasive Laparoscopic Surgery
- Improving Obesity-related Health Conditions
CONS →
- Surgical Risks
- Non-Reversible
- Dumping Syndrome
- Possible Long-Term Complications
- Commitment to Lifestyle Changes
FAQ’s About →
VERTICAL SLEEVE GASTRECTOMY
Recovery from sleeve gastrectomy involves a phased approach, starting with a liquid diet and gradually transitioning to solid foods. Patients typically return to normal activities within a few weeks, while full recovery may take a few months.
WHAT EXACTLY DOES SLEEVE GASTRECTOMY INVOLVE?
Sleeve gastrectomy transforms the stomach into a tube-like structure by removing a large portion, significantly reducing its volume. This alteration limits food intake and helps decrease appetite, aiding in weight loss.
WHO SHOULD CONSIDER THIS PROCEDURE?
This procedure is ideal for individuals who are significantly overweight, especially those with a BMI over 40 or a BMI over 35 with obesity-related health issues.
What are the INSURANCE AND SELF-PAY OPTIONS?
While many insurance plans cover sleeve gastrectomy, coverage can vary. Many surgical centers offer self-pay options and financing plans for those without insurance or whose plans do not cover the procedure.
WILL MY STOMACH RETURN TO ITS ORIGINAL SIZE POST-SURGERY?
The stomach can stretch slightly over time but cannot return to its original size. Maintaining healthy eating habits is crucial to prevent significant expansion.
CAN THE PROCEDURE BE REVERSED?
Since the surgeon removes a portion of the stomach, the procedure is irreversible, underscoring the importance of careful consideration and commitment to lifestyle changes.
HOW QUICKLY WILL I LOSE WEIGHT AFTER THE SURGERY?
Weight loss varies, but many patients lose as much as 50-60% of their excess weight within the first two years, depending on adherence to dietary and lifestyle recommendations.
CAN I BECOME PREGNANT AFTER UNDERGOING SLEEVE GASTRECTOMY?
Pregnancy is possible post-surgery, but it’s advisable to wait at least 18 months to ensure the body has stabilized and satisfies the mother and baby’s nutritional needs.
HOW WILL THIS SURGERY AFFECT MY EATING HABITS?
Post-surgery, you’ll feel satiated with significantly smaller portions, which encourages healthier eating habits and contributes to weight loss.
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Surgical Technique
Using laparoscopic techniques, surgeons make small incisions and insert surgical instruments and a camera for guidance. This method significantly lowers the risk of complications and speeds up the recovery process.
OTHER WEIGHT LOSS SURGERIES
Unlike gastric bypass, which reroutes the digestive tract, sleeve gastrectomy maintains the original path of the digestive system, minimizing nutritional deficiencies. The sleeve is a more permanent alternative than gastric bands, eliminating the need for future device adjustments.
ROLE IN REDUCING APPETITE
Bariatric surgeons remove the portion of the stomach that produces most of the body’s ghrelin; sleeve gastrectomy effectively decreases the patient’s appetite while facilitating a lower caloric intake and promoting weight loss.
Lifestyle Changes
Recovery from sleeve gastrectomy involves a phased approach, starting with a liquid diet and gradually transitioning to solid foods. Patients typically return to normal activities within a few weeks, while full recovery may take a few months.
DIETARY ADJUSTMENTS
Patients should adhere to a structured diet following surgery, starting with liquids and slowly incorporating pureed and solid foods. This gradual progression allows the newly formed stomach sleeve to heal correctly.
IMPORTANCE OF EXERCISE
Regular physical activity is crucial post-surgery, aiding in weight loss and maintenance, improving cardiovascular health, and enhancing mood and energy levels.
ONGOING SUPPORT AND MONITORING
Follow-up appointments are essential for monitoring recovery, nutritional intake, and weight loss progress. Many patients also benefit from joining support groups and counseling to navigate the emotional and psychological aspects of their weight loss journey.
Post-surgery dietary and exercise guidelines play a significant role in the patient’s healing and the long-term success of the surgery. Be sure to ask your surgeon if you have any questions about sleeve gastrectomy.
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Nashville Bariatrics
At Nashville Bariatrics, we understand the emotional and physical struggles that come with trying to achieve lasting weight loss. Choosing Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy is a significant and brave step towards a healthier life, and our dedicated team is here to support you every step of the way. We provide compassionate, personalized care to ensure that you feel confident and well-informed throughout your journey. Don’t wait any longer to take control of your health—schedule a consultation with us today and discover how Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy can help you achieve your weight loss goals and improve your overall well-being.
Bariatrics Clinic
615.425.0550
393 Wallace Rd Ste 301, Bldg A
Nashville, TN 37211
M-F 7:30 am - 4:30 pm