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How To Know If You’re A Candidate For Gastric Sleeve Surgery

January 26, 2023

How To Know If You’re A Candidate For Gastric Sleeve Surgery

Are you considering a gastric sleeve procedure to help manage your weight and health? This article will explore the process of determining if you’re a good candidate for this type of surgery. Learn about the requirements, benefits, and risks associated with this life-changing decision, so that you can make an informed choice.

What is Gastric Sleeve Surgery?

Gastric sleeve surgery, also known as vertical sleeve gastrectomy, is a weight-loss surgery in which the stomach is reduced to about 15% of its original size. The smaller stomach is then connected to the small intestine. This surgery is usually performed laparoscopically, which means that it is done through several small incisions in the abdomen.

Gastric sleeve surgery is used to treat obesity and help people lose weight. It can also be used to treat other conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure. This type of surgery is usually only recommended for people who are unable to lose weight through diet and exercise alone.

If you are considering gastric sleeve surgery, it is important to meet with a weight-loss surgeon to discuss your options and whether or not this type of surgery is right for you.

Who is a Candidate for Gastric Sleeve Surgery?

If you are considering gastric sleeve surgery, it is important to consult with a qualified bariatric surgeon to determine if you are a candidate. There are certain criteria that must be met in order for you to be eligible for the procedure.

To be a candidate for gastric sleeve surgery, you must:

-Be at least 18 years old.
-Have a BMI of 30 or higher
-Have failed to lose weight through diet and exercise alone
-Not have any other medical conditions that would make the surgery too risky

If you meet all of the above criteria, then you may be a candidate for gastric sleeve surgery. The decision to have the procedure is ultimately up to you and your surgeon.

Benefits of Gastric Sleeve Surgery

If you are considering weight loss surgery, the gastric sleeve may be a good option for you. This type of surgery is less invasive than other types of weight loss surgery, such as gastric bypass. It also has a shorter recovery time and fewer risks.

The gastric sleeve works by reducing the size of your stomach. This makes you feel full more quickly and eat less. The surgery also removes a portion of your intestine, which reduces the number of calories and nutrients your body can absorb.

There are many benefits to having gastric sleeve surgery, including:

-Weight loss: On average, patients lose 60-70% of their excess body weight within the first year after surgery.

-Health improvements: Gastric sleeve surgery can improve or resolve health conditions such as high blood pressure, sleep apnea, joint pain, and type 2 diabetes.

-Improved quality of life: Gastric sleeve patients report an improved quality of life after surgery, thanks to their increased energy levels and ability to participate in activities they couldn’t do before due to their weight.

Risks of Gastric Sleeve Surgery

One of the most common risks associated with any type of surgery is the potential for infection. Gastric sleeve surgery is no exception. Infection can occur in the incision site or in other areas of the body, such as the lungs.

Other risks include:

• Excessive bleeding

• Blood clots

• Reaction to anesthesia

• Damage to nearby organs

How to Prepare for Gastric Sleeve Surgery

If you’re considering gastric sleeve surgery, it’s important to be as prepared as possible. Here are a few things you can do to get ready for your surgery:

1. Understand the risks and potential complications. Be sure to ask your surgeon about any risks associated with the procedure.

2. Get clearance from your primary care physician. You’ll need to get a letter of medical clearance from your PCP before undergoing surgery.

3. Stop smoking and using all tobacco products. If you smoke, you’ll need to quit at least two weeks before and two weeks after surgery. Tobacco use increases the risk of complications and slows down healing.

4. Lose weight if you’re overweight or obese. The ideal body mass index (BMI) for gastric sleeve surgery is 35 or less. If your BMI is higher than that, your doctor may recommend losing weight before surgery to improve outcomes and reduce risks.

5. Make sure you have help at home after surgery. You won’t be able to lift anything heavy or do any strenuous activity for at least six weeks after surgery, so it’s important to have someone who can help you with everyday tasks during your recovery period

What to Expect After Gastric Sleeve Surgery

After undergoing gastric sleeve surgery, patients can expect to see a significant reduction in the amount of food they can consume at one time. Additionally, they will likely feel fuller faster and experience a decrease in hunger and cravings. Many patients also report an improvement in energy levels and quality of sleep.

In the first few weeks following surgery, patients will need to stick to a liquid or pureed diet as their stomachs heal. After that, they can gradually introduce solid foods back into their diet. Most people can return to their normal diet within six to eight weeks after surgery.

It is important to note that gastric sleeve surgery is not a quick fix for weight loss. It is a tool that can help patients lose weight and keep it off over the long term. Patients will need to commit to making lifestyle changes, such as eating healthy and exercising regularly, in order to see lasting results.

Alternatives to Gastric Sleeve Surgery

If you’re considering gastric sleeve surgery, you may be wondering if there are any alternatives. The good news is that there are a number of different options available, and your doctor can help you decide which one is right for you.

One alternative to gastric sleeve surgery is gastric bypass surgery. This type of surgery involves creating a small pouch at the top of your stomach and connecting it directly to your small intestine. This bypasses the rest of your stomach and allows food to bypass the majority of your digestive system, which can help you lose weight.

Another option is Adjustable Gastric Banding (AGB). This type of surgery involves placing a band around the top of your stomach to create a small pouch. The band can be adjusted over time to make the pouch smaller or larger, depending on your needs. AGB can be an effective way to help you lose weight and keep it off long-term.

Your doctor can help you decide which type of surgery is right for you based on your individual needs and health history. If you’re considering gastric sleeve surgery, be sure to talk to your doctor about all of your options so that you can make the best decision for your health.

Conclusion

Gastric sleeve surgery is a viable option for many individuals looking to improve their health and reduce their weight. If you’ve been trying unsuccessfully to lose weight through diet and exercise, it may be worth considering if gastric sleeve surgery could help with your goals. By meeting with a qualified doctor, determining whether or not you are an ideal candidate for the procedure, understanding potential risks and benefits associated with the surgery, and discussing alternative treatment options available to you, you can make an informed decision about your care plan that will best meet your needs.

 

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