Surgery is a big decision. Not only is it a financial investment, but it’s can also a physically and emotionally demanding process. When it comes to weight loss surgery, there are a lot of different options to choose from. One of the most popular surgeries is the gastric sleeve. In this blog post, we’ll explore the gastric sleeve procedure, what it involves, and what the recovery process is like.
The Gastric Sleeve, also known as a Sleeve Gastrectomy is a weight loss surgery that involves removing a portion of the stomach. This helps to reduce the amount of food the stomach can hold, meaning you feel full quicker. The surgery can also help to reduce the body’s production of hunger-inducing hormones.
What is a Gastric Sleeve?
What are the advantages of Sleeve Gastrectomy?
Some of the benefits of this procedure include:
- Gastric Sleeve surgery can lead to significant and rapid weight loss (25-30% of total body weight), making it an effective option for those struggling with obesity.
- Improvement of obesity-related conditions – Many patients can experience improvements or resolution of obesity-related health conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and sleep apnea.
- Reduced hunger – The surgery reduces the size of the stomach, which may lead to a decrease in appetite and a feeling of fullness with smaller meals.
- No intestinal bypass – Unlike some other bariatric procedures, Gastric Sleeve surgery does not involve rerouting the intestines, which may reduce the risk of complications related to nutrient absorption.
- Shorter hospital stay – Typically, the hospital stay is shorter compared to some other weight loss surgeries.
What are the downsides of Gastric Sleeve?
Any medical procedure, especially surgery, involves potential risks. However, the Gastric Sleeve has relatively low risks compared to other forms of bariatric surgery. Nevertheless, it is still important to understand the procedure and follow all aftercare directions to ensure you get the desired results. Some of the downsides include:
- Irreversible procedure – Gastric Sleeve surgery is irreversible. Once a portion of the stomach is removed, it cannot be restored.
- Potential for complications – As with any surgery, there are potential risks and complications, such as infection, bleeding, and leakage at the surgical site.
- Nutrient deficiency – While the risk is lower than with some other weight loss surgeries, there is still a potential for nutrient deficiencies, and patients may need to take supplements for the rest of their lives.
- Strict dietary changes – Patients must adhere to strict dietary guidelines after surgery, including portion control and nutrient-rich choices. Failure to follow these guidelines can lead to complications or inadequate weight loss.
- Recovery – Patients should refrain from driving for at least ten days until they are sure they can do an emergency stop and may require 2 weeks off work.
Is a Gastric Sleeve right for me?
If you are considering a Gastric Sleeve, it is important to discuss the risks and benefits with a bariatric specialist to check if this surgery is right for you.
Streamline has helped thousands of patients to achieve their life-changing weight loss goals over the last 15 years. Our experts can help find the right treatment option for you and we understand undergoing weight loss surgery is a big decision, which is why it is important to find a team that you can trust. During your consultation, we work with you to assess which kind of bariatric surgery is best for you.
To enquire with Streamline about the weight loss procedures we offer, please call 0333 016 3030 or fill in the online enquiry form below.