Losing Weight With Sleeve Gastrectomy

Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy is an effective weight loss surgery that decreases appetite and food intake. Sleeve gastrectomy surgeons remove the stomach fundus area, which is where most Ghrelin, the appetite stimulant, is produced. The portion of the stomach that stores food is also removed. Food consumption is considerably reduced, which results in weight loss.

Sleeve gastrectomy has been newly named a "stand-alone" procedure. It was initially administered only as the first phase of the two-phased gastric bypass surgery that surgeons perform on patients with a BMI of 60 or greater. But because it has proven to be effective on its own while being less invasive than the gastric bypass surgery, it was endorsed in March 2009 as a "stand-alone" procedure by the International Consensus Summit for Sleeve Gastrectomy.

 Important Things to Remember About Sleeve Gastrectomy

• Adjustments, like those made after Lap-Band surgery, cannot be made after completing sleeve gastrectomy surgery, and the surgery is irreversible.
• Sleeve gastrectomy does not require the implantation of a foreign device.
• Perioperative risk appears low, even in high BMI patients.
• No dumping syndrome.
• Excess body weight loss is reported in the range of 35-85%. Patients experience one to two pounds loss per week with an overall weight loss of 35-60% in the first 12-18 months.
• If weight loss is inadequate, gastric bypass can be administered.
• Sleeve gastrectomy requires long-term vitamin and mineral supplements, as with gastric bypass surgery.
• Some insurance companies now cover sleeve gastrectomy.

 

To learn more about sleeve gastrectomy and consult with Dr. Collier, respected and experienced Houston area weight loss surgeon, call 281.367.2263.  Dr. Collier serves patients throughout the Houston area, including The Woodlands, Conroe, Kingwood, Huntsville, Humble and Spring, Texas.