What is Sleeve Gastrectomy Surgery?

Sleeve gastrectomy surgery, also known as gastric sleeve surgery, is a surgical procedure designed to assist individuals in achieving significant weight loss by reducing the size of the stomach. It is a popular option for those who have struggled with obesity and have not achieved successful weight loss through non-surgical methods such as diet and exercise.

Understanding Sleeve Gastrectomy

Sleeve gastrectomy involves the removal of a large portion of the stomach, leaving behind a smaller “sleeve” or tube-shaped stomach. The procedure works by restricting the amount of food that can be consumed, leading to reduced calorie intake and subsequent weight loss. The surgery also influences the production of certain hormones that help regulate appetite and feelings of hunger.

Some key points to understand about sleeve gastrectomy:

• Permanent Procedure: Sleeve gastrectomy is a permanent procedure that cannot be reversed. The portion of the stomach that is removed is gone permanently.
• Restriction and Hormonal Changes: The surgery achieves weight loss through both restriction and hormonal changes. The reduced stomach size restricts the amount of food that can be eaten, while hormonal changes help control appetite and promote satiety.
• Improvement of Obesity-Related Conditions: In addition to weight loss, sleeve gastrectomy surgery has been shown to improve or resolve obesity-related conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and sleep apnea.

The Sleeve Gastrectomy Procedure

The sleeve gastrectomy procedure typically involves the following steps:

1. Anesthesia: Sleeve gastrectomy is performed under general anesthesia, ensuring that the patient is asleep and pain-free throughout the surgery.
2. Laparoscopic Approach: The surgery is usually done using a minimally invasive technique called laparoscopy. Small incisions are made in the abdomen, and a laparoscope (a thin, flexible tube with a camera) is inserted to guide the surgical instruments.
3. Stomach Resection: The surgeon removes a large portion of the stomach, leaving behind a smaller sleeve-shaped stomach. The remaining portion of the stomach is then stapled or sutured closed.
4. Postoperative Recovery: After the surgery, patients are monitored in a recovery area before being transferred to a hospital room. Most individuals can expect to stay in the hospital for a few days for proper monitoring and postoperative care.

Recovery and Lifestyle Changes

Recovery from sleeve gastrectomy surgery requires a commitment to significant lifestyle changes to ensure successful weight loss and long-term health. Some aspects of the recovery and postoperative journey include:

• Dietary Changes: Following surgery, patients will need to follow a specific postoperative diet plan. Initially, the diet consists of clear liquids, gradually progressing to pureed foods, and then solid foods. The diet plan will be provided by the healthcare team and will focus on portion control, balanced nutrition, and adequate hydration.
• Regular Physical Activity: Incorporating regular physical activity into daily routines is essential for maintaining weight loss and overall health. Patients are typically advised to start with light exercise and gradually increase intensity as they recover.
• Long-Term Follow-Up: Regular follow-up visits with the healthcare team are crucial for monitoring progress, assessing any complications, and providing support and guidance throughout the weight loss journey.

Is Sleeve Gastrectomy Surgery Right for You?

Sleeve gastrectomy surgery is a significant decision that should be made after careful consideration and consultation with a qualified bariatric surgeon. It may be suitable for individuals who:

• Have a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher, or a BMI of 35 or higher with obesity-related health conditions
• Have attempted to lose weight through non-surgical methods without success
• Are committed to making the necessary lifestyle changes to support long-term weight loss
• Do not have any medical conditions that may increase the risks associated with the surgery

At USA To EMT, we can connect you with reputable clinics and experienced bariatric surgeons across Europe who specialize in sleeve gastrectomy surgery. Contact us today to learn more and start your journey towards achieving significant weight loss and improved health!