Millions of individuals around the world are affected by obesity, which can cause a number of health issues. Gastric sleeve surgery is a potential option for people who are having trouble losing weight with conventional methods. Let’s take a closer look at gastric sleeve surgery, including its advantages, the procedure itself, and what to expect throughout the healing period.
Understanding Gastric Sleeve Surgery
The goal of gastric sleeve surgery, sometimes referred to as sleeve gastrectomy, is to help patients lose weight by shrinking their stomachs. Unlike other weight-loss procedures, with gastric sleeve surgery the intestines are neither rerouted or bypassed. Instead, it concentrates on decreasing the stomach's capacity, which aids with portion control and limits the amount of food that can be consumed.
The Benefits of Gastric Sleeve Surgery
Many individuals experience significant weight reduction following gastric sleeve surgery, dropping 50% to 70% of their extra weight in the first year following the treatment. By drastically reducing body weight, gastric sleeve surgery can lower the risk of obesity-related illnesses such type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, and heart disease. In addition to enhancing mobility and boosting energy levels and self-confidence and self-esteem, losing extra weight can also improve one's quality of life overall.
The Gastric Sleeve Surgery Procedure
Prior to surgery, patients go through a thorough evaluation that includes various medical testing, doctor consultations, and nutritional counseling. This stage assists in making sure that patients are both physically and mentally ready for the surgery.
Under general anesthesia, laparoscopic gastric sleeve surgery is carried out. A significant section of the stomach is removed during the treatment, leaving a stomach that resembles a sleeve and is about the size of a banana.
Patients stay in the hospital for 1-2 days following surgery for observation and healing. Following the instructions of their surgeon, they progressively transition over several weeks or months from a liquid diet to a pureed diet and then to solid foods.
Following gastric sleeve surgery, patients are urged to adjust their lifestyles significantly. These changes should include adopting a balanced diet, engaging in regular exercise, going to support groups, and keeping up with their doctor's visit schedule.
Considerations and Potential Risks of Gastric Sleeve Surgery
It's important to understand that gastric sleeve surgery is a major surgical treatment. Infection, hemorrhage, blood clots, surgical site leaks, and anesthesia-related problems are a few examples of potential dangers. It's essential to completely go over these risks with your healthcare professional and make sure you are a good candidate for the treatment.
Gastric sleeve surgery is a life-changing option for individuals struggling with obesity and its associated health issues. By reducing the size of the stomach, this procedure promotes weight loss, improves overall health, and enhances quality of life. If you are considering gastric sleeve surgery, the expert staff of nurses and doctors at Lane Surgery Group can help you on your way to a healthier life.
