Gastric Sleeve Surgery: What You Need to Know

The diet industry is booming, and it's easy to see why: losing weight is a major goal for many, but a difficult one for most people. Two-thirds or more of adults in the United States meet the criteria for obesity or being overweight. Experts recommend trying to lose just one to two pounds weekly so that the weight is less likely to be gained back over time. However, losing any amount of weight and keeping it off is a daunting task.

What Is Gastric Sleeve Surgery? The Basic Facts You Need to Know

Gastric sleeve surgery, or sleeve gastrectomy, is a recently developed laparoscopic procedure in which about 80% of the stomach is removed. What's left of the stomach resembles a tube or a "sleeve." After the procedure, patients feel satiated after consuming less food. They feel less hungry overall because their stomach produces less ghrelin, a hormone responsible for appetite regulation. They experience normal digestion and nutrient absorption after the procedure. Typically, patients drop 30 to 50% of the weight they need to lose within six to twelve months after gastric sleeve surgery. The gastric sleeve cost should be discussed with your weight loss doctor.

Is Gastric Sleeve Surgery Right for You?

You may be a candidate for bariatric (weight loss) surgery if your body mass index (BMI) is 40 or higher, indicating extreme obesity. You may also qualify if your BMI is between 35 and 39.9, which indicates obesity, and if you have a health condition that stems from being overweight, such as type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure. If these weight-related issues are especially concerning to your doctor but your BMI is only between 30 and 34, you may still be considered for certain types of bariatric surgery. Gastric sleeve surgery is an attractive option because it doesn't require that the intestines be rerouted, and involves less time in the hospital after the procedure than most weight-loss surgeries.

Any type of surgery for any reason should be carefully considered. Contact a weight loss doctor who can help you determine if gastric sleeve surgery is right for you, and if the gastric sleeve cost is within your means.