What to Expect with Gastric Sleeve Surgery
Helping Patients Successfully Meet Weight Loss and Health Goals
The decision to undergo surgery for weight loss is life-changing and deeply personal. More and more people are considering it, when obesity and health conditions related to their body mass index (BMI) are negatively impacting their overall health and quality of life.
The experienced and skilled care team at Beebe’s Center for Weight Loss Surgery provides the clinical care, personalized guidance, and lifelong education patients need to achieve their weight loss and health goals.
One of the first things to understand is that you have options when it comes to weight loss surgery based on your healthy history and personal needs. In this article, we’ll answer some questions regarding one of the more commonly performed weight loss procedures, gastric sleeve surgery, or sleeve gastrectomy.
What is the gastric sleeve procedure?
Gastric sleeve surgery is one of the most common types of bariatric surgery. It involves removal of approximately 80 percent of the stomach; the part that contains hormones that make you feel hungry, resulting in appetite suppression.
The small tube-shaped piece of the stomach that remains in place inside your body resembles a sleeve or small pouch. The procedure significantly reduces the stomach’s capacity and limits the amount of food that can be consumed at one time.
Unlike other procedures such as gastric bypass surgery, the gastric sleeve procedure does not involve rerouting the intestines.
Who is a candidate for this type of weight loss surgery?
Patients with a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher and who have been unsuccessful in losing weight through diet and exercise are typically considered good candidates for gastric sleeve surgery.
Individuals with a BMI of 35 or higher with at least one obesity-related health issue such as Type-2 diabetes or hypertension may also be eligible.
What is recovery from gastric sleeve surgery like?
Most patients who undergo bariatric surgery at Beebe spend one night in the hospital in order to be monitored by their surgeon and a team of specially trained nurses.
Once at home, the recovery process and ability to resume normal activities is very gradual – from how and what you eat, to how much you can lift, and when you can return to work, depending on the type of job you have.
The most important thing to know is that ongoing support from your care team at Beebe as well as your family members and loved ones is crucial for your success.
Are there lifestyle changes to be made after gastric sleeve surgery?
The procedure itself marks just one important milestone in your long-term weight loss journey. After undergoing the gastric sleeve procedure, patients must commit to several important lifestyle changes for optimal weight loss and overall health.
- Modifying portion sizes to accommodate a smaller stomach
- Incorporating lean proteins
- Adding nutrient-dense foods such as fruits and vegetables
- Drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated
- Exercising regularly
Working with a nutritionist is often beneficial for patients, and Beebe’s team is here for your throughout your recovery.
What results could I expect from gastric sleeve surgery?
Patients who have gastric sleeve surgery often lose 60 to 70 percent of their excess weight within one year. Many patients also experience a vast improvement or even remission of Type 2 diabetes, as well as better control or elimination of hypertension, sleep apnea, and high cholesterol.
With weight loss, overall health improves, and many patients report having more energy, fewer aches and pains, renewed confidence, and a new zest for life.
Improve Your Quality of Life with Beebe
Gastric sleeve surgery can help you achieve and maintain a healthy weight. To learn more about gastric sleeve surgery and Beebe Healthcare’s approach to weight loss surgery, fill out an interest form to attend a free seminar or call the Center for Weight Loss Surgery at 302-260-7360.
