Sleeve Gastrectomy
The sleeve gastrectomy procedure is a relatively new gastric surgery. This procedure removes up to about 85% of the stomach, leaving only a "sleeve". Sleeve gastrectomy can be a stepping stone procedure that will help you lose weight, so you can undergo more invasive weight-loss surgery, later on.
In the last few years, sleeve gastrectomy has become a primary procedure for weight loss by itself; and, is now recognized by the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS) as a primary solution for morbid obesity. As a staged procedure in very large patients with a BMI greater than 50, doing the sleeve gastrectomy surgery first helps reduce the risks associated with the second surgery.
Sleeve gastretomy surgery can be an outpatient procedure, in low risk patients done under general anesthesia. It is more commonly done as a post operative admission to the hospital for one to two days, depending upon the risk factors associated with you.
What to Expect During the Procedure
Sleeve gastrectomy surgery is a laparoscopic procedure that will remove 60%-85% of the stomach. At least two one-half inch incisions will be made in order to insert the fiber-optic lens (laparoscope); while, another four to five one quarter inch incisions will be made to insert the necessary tools. The procedure is done with our board certified bariatric surgeon, here at Arizona Weight Loss Solutions, looking at a television screen. The benefit to this technique is smaller incision sites, less bleeding, and faster recovery.
By removing such a large portion of the stomach, the hunger hormone known as grehlin, will significantly decrease. This allows you to control your hunger, eat smaller portions, and speed up the emptying of the stomach. The incision sites will be closed with dissolvable sutures.
What to Expect During the Recovery Period
Following surgery, your abdominal area will be sore and possibly bruised. The soreness and bruising will slowly dissipate.
You will be on a full liquid diet for two to three weeks; followed by a puree diet for the next two weeks; and then you will be able to eat soft foods.
Restrictions over the next six weeks may include but are not limited to: heavy lifting, pulling, or pushing. Your activities may be guided by your tolerance in many cases. It will take several weeks for the swelling and bruising to dissipate.
The use of bath tubs, Jacuzzis, or anything that allows the body to submerge is not allowed, until clearance from the physician has been provided (usually 2-3 weeks after the surgery). Showering is allowed 24 hours after surgery. It is important to pat the operative areas dry and replace the dressings.
Over the next six to twelve months, you can lose 30% to 50% of your excess body weight.
If you have questions, please call one of our licensed providers at Arizona Weight Loss Solutions: 480.419.2280.