Information about Gastric Sleeve Surgery

Bariatric Surgery is a specialty used to help patients neutralize obesity, allowing them to regain their quality of life and health. Advances in these types of surgeries allow patients to lose weight gradually, eating less and decreasing their appetite. The development of minimally invasive techniques allows the surgery to be performed through small incisions, with less pain and increased postoperative comfort.

In general, bariatric surgeries are based on reducing the size of the stomach in order to restrict the amount of food we can eat, or alter the digestive tract so that the body absorbs from it less calories than usual.

The gastric sleeve surgery has recently gained popularity and is associated with excellent results of weight loss. It is a restrictive procedure since approximately only 80% of the stomach is removed.

In order to achieve this, the stomach is divided by means of a vertical suture, turning the stomach's shape of a bag into a "sleeve" (hence its name). It is necessary to remove the remaining part of the stomach since it is completely isolated from the passing food. Since this technique does not restrict food to pass, the reconnecting of the intestines is not necessary to maintain the digestive process.

The patient will have the capacity to consume only one dessert plate to be satisfied.
Since the stomach produces hormones associated with appetite, by taking out an important portion of the stomach, the patient’s appetite is reduced, despite eating far less than before.

Technique: Minimally invasive, video assisted laparoscopic procedure.
Length: Depending on the procedure and state of the patient.
Anesthesia: General Anesthesia.
Hospitalization: from 3 to 4 days.

After the surgery

In the recovery room, you can expect to have some discomfort and feel the effects of the surgery (this can last for several days). Some medicine for this may be prescribed to help control pain. Or infusion pump may be used which provides a local anesthetic directly to the surgical site to control pain without the side effects of narcotics.

The changes made to your gastrointestinal tract will require permanent changes in your eating habits that must be followed for successful weight loss. What is vital is that you follow the physician guidelines’. The following are some of the usually accepted dietary guidelines:

* When you start the consumption of solid food, chew your food thoroughly and eat very slowly. It is important to wait a few minutes after swallowing before putting the next bite of food in your mouth.
* Don't drink fluids while eating. They will make you feel full before you have eaten enough food.
* Don’t eat desserts and other items with sugar if they have more than 3 to 5 grams per serving size.
* Avoid carbonated drinks, high-calorie nutritional supplements, foods high in fat, milk shakes, and foods that have no nutritional value.
* Avoid alcohol.
* Reduce snacking between meals.

Returning to Normal Routine

After the surgery, the surgeon requires you to get up and move around. You are asked to walk or stand at the bedside the night of surgery and take several walks the next day. After leaving the hospital, you may be able to concern on all your personal needs, but you will need help with shopping and lifting, and with transportation.

Drive is an activity that usually takes from 7 to 14 days to resume, as is not appropriate while under medications.

Depending on your physical condition, the nature of the activity, and the type of bariatric surgery you had, the surgeon suggests you the rhythm of returning to routine. Many patients return to normal levels of activity within six weeks of surgery.
It is strongly advised that women of childbearing age use the most effective forms of birth control during the first 16 to 24 months after bariatric surgery.

Reconstructive Plastic Surgery

If you have lost more than 100 pounds you also face another challenge  excess of skin. You might notice this on the face, upper arms, chest and abdomen. Skin folds under the arms, breasts, abdomen and legs can cause rasping and  bacterial and yeast infections.

Reconstructive surgery is indicated in this case. Reconstructive surgery can help give a more self-confident image. This results in better fitting clothing. Reconstructive surgery to improve your look should be delayed until your weight loss has stabilized for at least one year.

Last Update: 10/08/2009
Note: This information is directed to support and not to replace your doctor opinion.