Gastric Sleeve Overview

This surgical intervention entails the excision of a segment of the stomach to form a smaller, curved stomach pouch resembling a banana shape. This comprehensive guide offers a detailed exploration of the gastric sleeve procedure, encompassing its advantages, eligibility prerequisites, the procedural intricacies, recovery trajectory, possible risks, and anticipated results.

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What is Gastric Sleeve Surgery?

The gastric sleeve surgery serves as a surgical method for weight loss, strategically tailored to support individuals in their quest for lasting weight reduction and enhanced well-being. In this procedure, a substantial segment of the stomach is surgically excised, resulting in the creation of a smaller stomach pouch. This diminished stomach capacity imposes limitations on food intake, thus curbing caloric consumption and ultimately triggering weight loss.

Who is a Candidate for Gastric Sleeve Surgery?

Gastric sleeve surgery is contemplated for individuals who have not achieved lasting weight loss through traditional approaches like diet and exercise. Typically, the following criteria are used to identify potential candidates for this procedure:

  • BMI ≥ 40 or BMI ≥ 35 with obesity-related health conditions.
  • Previous unsuccessful attempts at weight loss.
  • Commitment to lifestyle changes post-surgery.
  • Absence of contraindications, such as severe heart or lung disease.
  • Willingness to follow pre-operative and post-operative guidelines provided by the medical team.

What are the Benefits of Gastric Sleeve Surgery?

The gastric sleeve procedure offers a multitude of benefits beyond just weight loss. These include:

Effective Weight Loss

Gastric sleeve surgery is known to produce substantial and sustained weight loss results. Patients typically lose a significant amount of excess weight within the first year after the procedure.

Improved Health Conditions

Weight loss resulting from gastric sleeve surgery often leads to improved health conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, and high cholesterol.

Reduced Hunger

During the process, a section of the stomach responsible for generating the hunger-inducing hormone ghrelin is excised. This decrease in ghrelin production can contribute to diminished feelings of hunger in patients.

Enhanced Quality of Life

Weight loss achieved through our gastric sleeve surgery in Glasgow can lead to increased mobility, better energy levels, improved self-esteem, and a more positive outlook on life.

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What is the Procedure Like?

The gastric sleeve surgery is commonly conducted using laparoscopic techniques, employing small incisions and specialised instruments. The essential stages of the procedure encompass:

Anesthesia

General anesthesia is administered to the patient to guarantee comfort and safety throughout the surgical procedure.

Stomach Reduction

The surgeon creates multiple small incisions and inserts a laparoscope to visualise the stomach. Using surgical instruments, approximately 75-80% of the stomach is removed, leaving behind a smaller sleeve-shaped pouch.

Stapling and Closure

The remaining stomach is stapled to create the new stomach pouch. The larger portion of the stomach that has been removed is carefully extracted.

Completion

Afterward, the incisions are closed using sutures or staples, finalising the procedure.

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Gastric Sleeve Recovery Process

After gastric sleeve surgery, patients will need to stay in the hospital for a few days for monitoring and recovery. The initial recovery period involves dietary changes, including consuming clear liquids and gradually progressing to soft foods and solids. Patients are advised to follow their surgeon's instructions regarding diet, physical activity, and lifestyle modifications.

Potential Risks and Complications

Like any surgical procedure, gastric sleeve surgery carries certain risks and potential complications. These can include infection, bleeding, blood clots, leakage at the staple line, and adverse reactions to anesthesia. Having a comprehensive conversation with the surgeon about potential risks is essential before making any decisions.

Expected Outcomes

Our gastric sleeve surgery in Glasgow has been shown to yield significant and sustainable weight loss results. On average, patients can anticipate shedding around 50-60% of their excess body weight within the initial year following the surgery. The rate of weight loss may vary based on factors such as adherence to dietary guidelines, physical activity, and individual metabolic rates.

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Why Choose Elanic?

Renowned for his exceptional precision and meticulous approach, Vivek Sivarajan, Consultant Plastic Surgeon and Medical Director of the Elanic Group, has garnered a reputation for his outstanding work. With a background from esteemed institutions such as Edinburgh University and University College London Hospital, his comprehensive training and expertise contribute to his renowned skill set, delivering remarkable outcomes. His unwavering dedication to achieving cosmetic perfection and ensuring patient contentment sets him apart as a leader in the field.

Contact our office now to arrange a consultation.

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