Gastric Sleeve: All That You Need to Know

What is Gastric Sleeve Surgery?

Gastric sleeve surgery is a restrictive weight loss operation that permanently reduces the size of your stomach by approximately 75-80%. After surgery, the stomach will take the shape of a narrow tube or "sleeve," limiting the amount of food you can eat at one time. It also reduces the production of ghrelin, which may decrease appetite and cravings.

Unlike some other bariatric procedures, gastric sleeve surgery does not involve the rerouting of intestines or placing some sort of alien device-our words-gastric band, for example-within the body. In that sense, this somewhat makes the procedure simpler and is associated with fewer long-term complications.
 

During the Procedure

1. The surgeon makes several small cuts in the abdomen using laparoscopic techniques.
2. The surgeon removes most of the stomach, approximately 75-80%, leaving a narrow, sleeve-like tube.
3. It closes off the rest of the stomach with surgical staples, allowing food to pass through much lesser capacity.
4. The entire operation lasts no longer than 1 to 2 hours.
5. After the procedure, the remaining smaller stomach can hold a maximum of 50 to 100 milliliters of food at one time; thus providing early satiety and an option for the patient to eat less.

Some major advantages of gastric sleeve surgery among those suffering from obesity include:

1. Substantial Weight Loss
Most patients lose 60-70% of their excess body weight within the first 12-18 months after surgery. Such extreme weight loss will improve overall health and decrease problems connected with obesity.

2. Improvement in Co-Morbidities of Obesity
 

Weight loss after gastric sleeve surgery may result in the following improvements:

- Remission of type 2 diabetes or its improvement
- Lower blood pressure and cholesterol.
- Relieve from sleep apnea and other breathing problems.
- Less heart disease and stroke
- More improved joint pain with good mobility.
 

3. Less Risk of Malnutrition
Due to the fact that the digestive process remains in tact, nutrients get absorbed commonly after gastric sleeve surgery unlike in the case of gastric bypass surgery. However, for some patients, there is still a little chance of malnutrition and vitamin deficiency. So, supplements may be prescribed to such patients.
 

4. Reduction of Hunger
With a shrunken stomach and minimal production of ghrelin, the feeling of hunger will be minimal, and so is the craving for food. This will allow the patients to have better control over their diet.

5. Fast Recovery
Gastric sleeve surgery can be performed via a laparoscope; this means smaller cuts, less scarring, and quicker recovery compared to open surgeries of old times.

Prior to gastric sleeve surgery, you will undergo an extensive preparation involving:

Meet with a Bariatric Surgeon: A surgeon who specializes in bariatric surgery will review your medical history with you and outline the procedure. He will also let you know if you are eligible for the surgery.
 

Nutritional Counseling: You'll see a nutritionist to review how your nutritional needs will be met pre- and post-surgery. You may be on a liquid diet for a period of time before the surgery to reduce the size of your liver.

You have the opportunity to undergo an initial online pre examination with your consultant / doctor through the Wellcome Online Health Center

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Pre-operative Testing: Several standard tests may be completed in advance, such as blood work, imaging, and a cardiac evaluation, just to make sure you are healthy enough for surgery.

What to Expect After Gastric Sleeve Surgery

1. Hospital Stay
Most patients will remain in the hospital for 1-2 days postoperatively. During this time, the medical team will be observing your recovery and degree of pain.

2. Post Operative Diet
The postoperative diet after gastric sleeve surgery is staged. 

Stage 1

• Liquid Diet: You will be on nothing but water, broth, and protein shakes for the first week or two.

Stage 2

• Pureed foods. After the initial healing, you will be on pureed foods for some weeks. 

Stage 3

• Soft foods. You would start adding scrambled eggs and soft fruits to your diet gradually. 

Stage 4: 

• Solid foods. After two months or so, you can go back on a routine diet with small, frequent meals. 

3. Exercise
Light exercises, such as walking, are necessary during the early stages of your recovery because it helps in healing. Gradually, you will increase exercising to help in weight loss support and gaining good health status.

4. Follow-Up Appointments
Routine follow-up with your bariatric surgeon and a dietitian will be one way to monitor your progress through weighing your weight loss and making sure you get the right nutrients.
 

While gastric sleeve surgery can jumpstart weight loss, maintaining healthy habits is in fact the key to long-term success. This includes:

Balanced Diet: Emphasize nutrient-dense, low-calorie foods. Cut down on high-sugar, high-fat, and processed foods.

Portion Control: Even after undergoing surgery, overeating can contribute to stomach stretching and subsequent weight regain.

Regular Exercise: At least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise should be done on a weekly basis, as would be maintained through walking, swimming, or cycling.

Support System: A support group for bariatric surgery patients or a therapist may be helpful in working out emotional eating and other psychological issues.

Gastrectomy sleeve surgery will be a life-changing process, enabling people with bad obesity to lose considerable weight and allowing their health to improve. If one is thinking about undergoing this surgery, they need first to weigh the benefits against the risks that may come with the surgery and whether they are ready for such a change and the necessary lifestyle modification thereafter. A consultation with a bariatric surgeon marks the first step in determining whether gastric sleeve surgery is right for you.

Gastric sleeve surgery is a very potent intervention for weight loss; hence, it can relieve and modify the quality of life in those persons who have been suffering from obesity over the years. Reduction of the stomach size lowers hunger levels and helps patients achieve and sustain a healthier weight by making healthier choices regarding food and exercise. Success involves continued adherence to healthy eating, regular exercise, and lifestyle changes that prevent weight regain. You will be provided with all the necessary advice and support by a qualified bariatric surgeon.