When considering weight loss surgery, there are two major options that come to mind; sleeve gastrectomy and lap-band. Choosing between the two might be challenging unless you understand what each entails. Both procedures are done laparoscopically and involve limiting the amount of food you take.
What Is a Sleeve Gastrectomy?
Sleeve gastrectomy involves the insertion of small instruments in the upper abdomen. During the process, close to 80% of the stomach is removed, restricting the amount of food you consume. This procedure reduces the stomach’s size to appear like a tube or a banana’s shape.
Advantages of Sleeve Gastrectomy
- You’re likely to lose more than 70% of excess weight
- It’s a rapid weight loss solution – within six months to one year
- You need at least one medical checkup within the first year year
- Lessens the risks or severity of co-morbidities like diabetes and hypertension
Disadvantages of Sleeve Gastrectomy
- Patients may undergo the procedure again because of weight gain
- Complications can occur five-ten years post-surgery
- The operation is costly
Understanding Lap-Band
The lap-band operation, also known as gastric banding, has been in existence for more than two decades. A silicone band is put around the stomach’s upper section and attached to a port, placing it under the abdominal wall’s skin. A syringe is then inserted in the skin and penetrates the port, adding in the fluid.
The fluid inflates the band, making a small pouch out of the upper stomach. The operation limits the amount of food the stomach can hold, slowing food passage to the intestines. When the port is full, a sensation of fullness is felt, limiting you from consuming more food.
Advantages of Lap-Band Surgeries
- The chances of losing excess weight are higher- 60%
- Patients recover easily and quickly
- You can lose weight gradually
- The procedure reduces the severity of conditions like hypertension, sleep apnea, and diabetes.
Disadvantages of Lap-Band Procedures
- You must have at least two checkups in a year to adjust the band
- You may have difficulties consuming some foods like bread and pasta
- The possibility of gaining weight is high if you resume to overfeeding.
Preparing for Either Surgery
The preparation for the surgical procedure varies in each patient. Before the surgery, each patient is supposed to show a commitment to losing weight. A patient must reduce the food portions for at least a week before undergoing the surgical procedure.
Some surgeons recommend that you wean off greasy calorie-rich foods like milkshakes or ice creams. Patients whose BMI is above 50 or those with underlying medical conditions may need to discuss this with the surgeon. You may need preoperative care to get excellent results.
Which Is the Best Procedure for You?
Since most procedures have a high success rate, both are viable but subject to your expectations and lifestyle. A patient must be committed and compliant for either surgery to be effective. You should perceive sleeve gastrectomy and lap-band surgeries as solutions to weight loss. If you have concerns or would like to undergo either of the surgical procedure, you can schedule an appointment with Louis Balsama, an expert at both surgeries.
