Gastric Sleeve Works Long Term

Posted by Dr. Nick Nicholson on June 1st, 2014

Different types of weight loss surgery are available to help patients reverse obesity. One popular surgery is gastric sleeve or vertical sleeve gastrectomy. This procedure involves reducing the size of the stomach into a small pouch or ‘sleeve’ that is shaped like a banana without interfering with any other openings in the digestive tract.

This procedure reduces the amount of food that the stomach can hold. It has also been found to reduce the amount of a specific hormone, ghrelin, which is produced in the stomach. This hormone is what triggers hunger and with smaller amounts being produced the individual has a reduced appetite. The final result of the procedure allows food to pass through smoothly even with a smaller stomach.

Research has now found that obese patients that go through this procedure are able to keep the excess weight off for longer. The study found that patients lost 57.4% of excessive BMI (Body Mass Index) over a period of 5 years.

Gastric Sleeve was initially developed as the first step to additional weight loss surgeries, but the findings have shown that it can be used on its own with patients not requiring any other procedure to achieve the same weight-loss results. Your doctor will discuss healthy habits of eating right and exercising to reach and maintain good results.

Other benefits seen with this surgery are the reduction of related conditions found in obese patients. Patients with diabetes have seen their diabetes reduce and even go into total remission after this surgery. Others experienced a reduction in sleep apnea problems. The ability to move, climb stairs and walk may be impaired with obesity, but the weight loss achieved after surgery allowed patients to increase their physical activity.  High blood pressure was also found to stabilize sometimes eliminating the need for medication.

Gastric Sleeve patients  will enjoy better health over a longer period of time. All the conditions they were struggling with as a result of being obese become easier to manage. Following your doctor’s advice before and after the procedure will keep you healthy and help you reach your new life objective. 

About Author:

One of the most experienced weight loss surgeons in the country – Dr. Nick Nicholson – along with a full staff of surgeons, nurses and other experienced clinicians, help patients reverse obesity with LAP-BAND, Gastric Bypass, Sleeve Gastrectomy and Revisions.