Overweight and obesity have become significant global health issues. Numerous solutions ranging from dietary changes, regular physical exercise, to prescription drugs have been used to tackle this health menace successfully. However, for those with morbid obesity or obesity-related health complications, weight loss or bariatric surgery such as weight loss surgery sleeve often becomes inevitable.
Weight loss surgery sleeve, medically known as sleeve gastrectomy, is a procedure that aids weight loss by removing a significant portion of the stomach, nearly 80%. The resulting smaller stomach is shaped like a sleeve, hence the reference to this procedure as a ‘sleeve gastrectomy’ or ‘gastric sleeve surgery’. Patients undergoing this procedure naturally consume less food due to the reduced stomach size, leading to significant weight loss over time.
Brief Look into the Procedure
The weight loss surgery sleeve is a minimally invasive procedure performed laparoscopically. The surgeon makes several small incisions in the patient’s abdomen, through which the laparoscope and surgical instruments are introduced. The stomach is divided vertically, and a large section is removed. What remains is a narrow sleeve-shaped portion of the stomach, about the size and shape of a banana. The new, smaller stomach is closed with staples.
Another significant advantage of this procedure is that it does not involve rerouting or changes to the intestines, unlike other forms of weight-loss surgeries like gastric bypass, reducing the chances of further complications.
Sleeve Gastrectomy Recovery
Sleeve gastrectomy recovery time can vary from person to person, but generally, patients can expect to leave the hospital one to three days after the procedure. Full recovery usually takes two to three weeks before the patient can resume normal day-to-day activities. However, patients are strongly advised to avoid strenuous activities during this time.
During sleeve gastrectomy recovery, patients are required to stick to a strict diet plan to ensure a smooth healing process. The diet typically begins with clear liquids before gradually introducing pureed food, and finally, solid food.
Regular follow-up appointments become essential during recovery, allowing the treatment team to track the patient’s progress and ensure recovery is on the right trajectory. During these check-ups, the team monitors weight loss, nutritional status, and physical health. They can offer guidance and support, assisting with any challenges faced, such as adapting to the new dietary changes.
Risks and Benefits
No surgical procedure is entirely devoid of risks, and the weight loss surgery sleeve is no exception. Some of the potential complications include infection, bleeding, nutrient deficiencies, and a slight chance of the sleeve leaking. However, with an experienced surgeon and proper pre and post-operative care, such risks can be effectively minimized.
Despite these risks, the rewards are usually well worth it. Patients typically witness a considerable loss of weight within the first year of surgery. Besides the evident physical transformation, the surgery significantly reduces or even eradicates conditions associated with obesity, such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea, and several others. Above all, the weight loss surgery sleeve often leads to a significant improvement in quality of life, physical fitness, and overall health of the patient.
Conclusion
Weight loss surgery sleeve is a powerful tool for considerable weight loss and can be a life-changing procedure for those struggling with severe obesity and its complications. However, it is essential to remember that it’s not a magic fix. A commitment to lifestyle changes, a healthy diet, and regular physical exercise is required for maintaining long-term successful weight management even after surgery.