Obesity is a serious problem that is associated with a wide range of health conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, gallbladder disease and joint problems. Laparoscopic gastric sleeve gastrectomy can help individuals lose the extra weight, so they can manage their health more effectively. However, this type of surgery is not for everyone. Here are some of the requirements you must fulfill to be eligible for the gastric sleeve procedure.
Understanding Gastric Sleeve Surgery
The gastric sleeve procedure, also referred to as vertical sleeve gastrectomy, is a type of bariatric surgery to help individuals lose weight for better health. The surgery limits the size of the stomach, so that you can only consume a certain amount of food. The procedure also causes hormonal changes that help to reduce weight. The procedure is done laparoscopically, which means it is done through small incisions, using a tiny camera at the end of an instrument to see inside the body. The incisions heal quickly and produce very little scarring. After the procedure, you must follow a variety of instructions to ensure the success of the surgery. Laparoscopic gastric sleeve gastrectomy is a non-reversible procedure, which means you will have to be prepared to live with its requirements for the long term.
General Health Requirements
You should be in good general health, and any medical conditions you may have because of your excess weight should be under good control. The gastric sleeve procedure can generally be used for extreme obesity, while other procedures may not be appropriate for these cases.
Body Mass Index Requirements
Laparoscopic gastric sleeve surgery is generally advised for patients with a body mass index over 40 or 100 pounds overweight. If you have a weight-related medical condition, such as type-2 diabetes, non-alcohol fatty liver disease, heart disease or respiratory problems, a BMI at or above 35 is required. If you have tried to lose weight unsuccessfully in the past, you may be eligible for this type of surgery.
Psychological Readiness To Fulfill Lifestyle Changes After Surgery
Bariatric surgery for weight loss involves intensive changes in behavior to ensure the success of your procedure. Patients must learn to eat differently after gastric sleeve surgery and are required to take supplements to prevent deficiencies of important nutrients. You will have to gradually increase the amount and type of foods you eat after the surgery. You will have to learn to continue to monitor your food intake and nutritional needs throughout your life. Follow-up visits to the doctor will be a part of your regular healthcare. Your physician will have you see a psychologist to determine if you are psychologically ready to make the changes needed to help you lose the weight and live effectively after your surgery.
Schedule a Consultation
Dr. Louis Balsama can help you determine if this type of surgery is right for your needs. Although not everyone is a good candidate for laparoscopic gastric sleeve gastrectomy, the procedure can be a useful option for individuals struggling with obesity, who have not had success in losing the weight by other means.
