How is a Gastric Sleeve Surgery Done?
How is a Gastric Sleeve Surgery Done? Gastric sleeve surgery, also known as sleeve gastrectomy, is a popular weight loss procedure that has helped countless individuals achieve their health goals. This surgical technique involves the removal of a significant portion of the stomach, which reduces its size and limits food intake. The procedure is minimally invasive, leading to less pain and quicker recovery times for patients.
Before undergoing gastric sleeve surgery, it’s crucial for potential candidates to understand what the process entails. From the necessary preparations prior to surgery to the post-operative care required for successful recovery, each step plays an integral role in ensuring the best possible outcome. By being well-informed about the procedure, patients can make confident decisions about their weight loss journey. Preparation for Surgery
In the weeks leading up to gastric sleeve surgery, patients will need to make several important preparations. These preparations are crucial to ensure the safety of the procedure and to improve the likelihood of successful weight loss after surgery. A thorough medical evaluation is typically the first step in this process. During this evaluation, the surgeon will confirm the patient’s eligibility for surgery based on their overall health, obesity-related health conditions, and previous weight loss attempts.
Dietary changes are another vital part of preparing for gastric sleeve surgery. In most cases, patients will be asked to follow a pre-operative diet two weeks before surgery. This diet is typically low in carbohydrates and high in protein, which helps reduce the size of the liver and decrease body fat. This not only makes the surgical procedure safer and easier but also helps patients get a head start on their post-surgery diet. It’s essential that patients adhere strictly to this diet as instructed by their healthcare team.
Aside from medical evaluations and dietary changes, other practical preparations include organizing leave from work or school, arranging for help with daily tasks during the recovery period, and preparing a comfortable space at home for post-operative rest. Patients may also be required to attend counseling sessions to prepare mentally for the lifestyle changes that come with gastric sleeve surgery. All these steps play an integral role in ensuring that patients are physically, mentally, and practically ready for the life-changing journey they’re about to embark on.
Surgical Process
The surgical process for gastric sleeve surgery is a meticulous and carefully planned operation. It begins with the administration of general anesthesia, ensuring the patient feels no pain during the procedure. Once the anesthesia has taken effect, the surgeon will make several small incisions in the abdomen. Through these incisions, a laparoscope and other specialized surgical tools are inserted. The laparoscope, equipped with a small camera, provides a live video feed to a monitor in the operating room, allowing the surgeon to clearly see and navigate the abdominal cavity.
The core of the surgical process is the removal of a large portion of the stomach. Using the tools inserted through the abdominal incisions, around 80% of the stomach is surgically removed. This leaves behind a
much smaller, sleeve-like section of the stomach, hence giving this procedure its name. The remaining part of the stomach is then stitched or stapled together to form a narrow tube or “sleeve”. This new, smaller stomach can hold significantly less food than before, which aids in weight loss by limiting food intake.
The entire surgical process generally takes one to two hours to complete. After the surgery, patients are moved to a recovery room where they are closely monitored by medical professionals as they wake from anesthesia. Once awake and stable, patients are typically required to stay in hospital for a few days for observation and care. During this period, healthcare professionals will provide instructions on diet and activity levels for the initial recovery phase at home. This comprehensive approach ensures patients are wellequipped to commence their recovery journey towards achieving significant weight loss and improved health.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the gastric sleeve surgery procedure typically take?
The surgical process for gastric sleeve surgery generally takes around one to two hours to complete. The overall duration can vary depending on individual factors and any additional procedures performed alongside the gastric sleeve surgery.
Will I experience pain after gastric sleeve surgery?
It is common to experience some discomfort after the surgery, including pain at the incision sites. However, your healthcare team will provide appropriate pain management medication to help alleviate any discomfort. Most patients find that the pain improves within a few days as they progress through the recovery period.
How much weight can I expect to lose after gastric sleeve surgery?
Weight loss results following gastric sleeve surgery can vary from person to person. On average, patients can expect to lose between 50- 70% of their excess body weight within two years following the procedure. It's important to remember that successful long-term weight loss requires a commitment to adopting healthy lifestyle habits, including regular exercise and a balanced diet.
Will I need to follow a specific diet after gastric sleeve surgery?
Yes, dietary adjustments are an essential part of post-operative care. Your healthcare team will provide you with specific guidelines regarding your diet after surgery. In the initial recovery phase, you will follow a phased diet that gradually progresses from liquids to pureed foods, soft foods, and eventually solid food. Following these guidelines is crucial for proper healing and optimal weight loss outcomes.
When can I resume normal activities after gastric sleeve surgery?
The timeline for resuming normal activities may vary depending on individual factors and how well the recovery progresses. While gentle movements like walking are encouraged immediately after surgery, more strenuous activities should be avoided initially. Your healthcare team will provide guidance on when it is safe to gradually increase physical activity levels and return to normal daily activities. It's important to follow their instructions and listen to your body during the recovery period.
