Gastric Sleeve

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy, also known as the Gastric Sleeve, is a relatively new bariatric surgery procedure. The Gastric Sleeve is comparable to the gastric bypass procedure, but is believed to reduce the risk of some of its possible complications.

Are you a candidate for the Gastric Sleeve?

Most patients who undergo surgery with the Gastric Sleeve present a body mass index over 35. If you've been deemed a high-risk patient for other bariatric surgery procedures, your surgeon may recommend the Gastric Sleeve. In general, patients considered good candidates have experienced past failures with traditional weight loss methods, have good mental health, and are older than age 18.

How Gastric Sleeve Surgery Works

This Gastric Sleeve can be performed as a single operation or (in extremely obese patients) it can serve as a first-stage operation several months before gastric bypass.

Using a laparoscope, your surgeon can perform the operation through smaller incisions. During surgery, a portion of the stomach is surgically removed so that it takes the form of a sleeve. This process will effectively suppress hunger and bring about a gradual but significant reduction in body weight.

What to Expect After Gastric Sleeve Surgery

Weight loss begins after surgery and becomes noticeable in the months that follow. Approximately one year after surgery, patients undergo a 50 - 80 percent reduction in body weight. Although each patient's results will vary, health problems such as the following may be resolved or improved:

• Diabetes
• Sleep apnea
• Hypertension
• Degenerative joint disease
• Hyperlipidemia
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease

Bariatric surgery represents a major step toward changing your life and overall health. The choice to have bariatric surgery should not be made hastily, but after careful consideration of the risks and benefits involved.

To learn more about the gastric sleeve and discuss whether you are a good candidate, contact Surgical Arts of Inland Empire in Rancho Cucamonga.