Gastric sleeve surgery has shown large success rates in terms of excess weight dropped after surgery. Since this surgical procedure removes most of the stomach, many patients end up losing a considerable amount of weight. The surgery typically leaves the stomach the size of a banana. This also means however they cannot eat as much as they used to prior to surgery. This permanent procedure can lead to vomiting and diarrhea while patients get acclimated to their new stomach size. Others may also experience issues with their esophagus because of how fast they eat.
Advantages of Gastric Sleeve
According to the NYU Langone Medical Center, patients can expect 65% of their body weight to be lost. This surgical procedure doesn’t require a foreign object to be placed into the body like banding. It also helps control the patient’s hunger which means their appetite will be less than before surgery leading to greater weight loss. In terms of other gastric surgeries, this one requires the least amount of follow-up doctor’s appointments than any other. It also allows the patient’s digestive tract to remain the same before surgery while other bariatric surgeries affect it and lead to chronic diarrhea. – Read More Pros and Cons
Complications
With any surgery, there is a risk of complications. Some of the most common complications associated with gastric sleeve surgery include leakage and infection. Others include internal bleeding, bowel obstruction, anorexia nervosa, and revisional surgery. Some patients experience soreness around the incisions and are prescribed pain medications. Others also experience diarrhea as a result of the switch to a smaller stomach and adjusting their eating habits.
Post Op
Anyone who endures this surgery should understand that a long-term diet is required in order to keep the weight off. This is a lifestyle change, not just a quick fix for obesity. Many patients also experience vitamin deficiency so supplements may be needed. It is important to follow the instructions of both the doctor and nutritionist in order to protect one’s health and have the greatest success. A specific diet will be provided to the patient that starts with liquids, soft foods, and later solids.
Recovery involves changing the way the patient eats. A patient must learn to eat slowly and thoroughly to avoid getting sick. It is also advisable that they drink during a meal to help move the food down the track. Typically, a patient is discharged from the hospital two days after surgery.