Considering a Sleeve Gastrectomy? Here’s What to Expect
When it comes to weight-loss surgeries that are known to produce dramatic and often very lasting results, there are two major options: the gastric bypass and the sleeve gastrectomy. While the bypass has long been the gold standard for producing the results those considered morbidly obese need, the sleeve is fast gaining in popularity. Although similar in its aim and the results produced, the sleeve gastrectomy tends to be a little less involved. That fact is one of the driving forces behind this procedure being selected by patients and their doctors at a growing rate.
The sleeve gastrectomy and bypass are both designed to shrink the stomach’s holding capacity. In doing so, these procedures make it very difficult for people to overeat. In the sleeve procedure, the shrinking involves the surgical removal of roughly 80 percent of the stomach. What is left behind is a small, banana-shaped pouch. It’s that pouch that gives the procedure its name. In addition to providing a way to promote proper eating, the gastrectomy does involve the removal of some of the cells in the stomach that make the hormone ghrelin. This hormone is meant to control hunger. The removal of these cells helps people feel less hungry than they may have before. It also helps them feel fuller faster.
While the bypass also involves rerouting the digestive system so that food passes directly into the small intestine, the gastrectomy does not involve this step. That is where the procedure tends to be a little less intense than the bypass.
Although the sleeve procedure is typically performed using what is known as “keyhole surgery,” it is considered a major undertaking. With that in mind, patients can expect a surgery that lasts from about two to four hours. Hospitalization is generally required for at least two days. Once performed, the sleeve, like the bypass, is not reversible. Patients will generally find themselves on a restricted diet for at least six weeks after surgery. The results produced by the sleeve procedure may vary, but are generally comparable with the bypass. This is especially so if patients follow dietary recommendations and are committed to making lifestyle changes.
If it’s time to address obesity once and for all, the sleeve gastrectomy may provide the assistance required. To find out more about it and other weight loss options, speak with a qualified healthcare provider.
The sleeve gastrectomy and bypass are both designed to shrink the stomach’s holding capacity. In doing so, these procedures make it very difficult for people to overeat. In the sleeve procedure, the shrinking involves the surgical removal of roughly 80 percent of the stomach. What is left behind is a small, banana-shaped pouch. It’s that pouch that gives the procedure its name. In addition to providing a way to promote proper eating, the gastrectomy does involve the removal of some of the cells in the stomach that make the hormone ghrelin. This hormone is meant to control hunger. The removal of these cells helps people feel less hungry than they may have before. It also helps them feel fuller faster.
While the bypass also involves rerouting the digestive system so that food passes directly into the small intestine, the gastrectomy does not involve this step. That is where the procedure tends to be a little less intense than the bypass.
Although the sleeve procedure is typically performed using what is known as “keyhole surgery,” it is considered a major undertaking. With that in mind, patients can expect a surgery that lasts from about two to four hours. Hospitalization is generally required for at least two days. Once performed, the sleeve, like the bypass, is not reversible. Patients will generally find themselves on a restricted diet for at least six weeks after surgery. The results produced by the sleeve procedure may vary, but are generally comparable with the bypass. This is especially so if patients follow dietary recommendations and are committed to making lifestyle changes.
If it’s time to address obesity once and for all, the sleeve gastrectomy may provide the assistance required. To find out more about it and other weight loss options, speak with a qualified healthcare provider.
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