Comparing 2 Types of Weight Loss Surgery
There are different types of weight loss surgery available to help people with severe medical needs. Before talking to your doctor, learn just a little more on your own about your weight loss surgery options.
Gastric Sleeve Surgery
What is gastric sleeve surgery?
This type of surgery makes the stomach smaller to help the patient lose weight. The surgeon makes a large incision in the abdomen and removes half of your stomach, leaving a thin vertical sleeve that is roughly the size of a banana. Your stomach is then stapled shut.
Who is eligible for gastric sleeve surgery?
Gastric sleeve qualifications require the patient to have a BMI (body mass index) that is higher than 40 or the patient must be at least 100 pounds overweight. BMI alone will not make you eligible for the surgery. Your doctor will order tests to determine if your body can handle the surgery and to ensure that your obesity is not related to medical conditions that can be treated with alternative methods.
What is the gastric sleeve surgery recovery time?
On average, patients are released from the hospital one to two days after the surgery. Patients generally return to work after one to three weeks, but no heavy lifting is permitted for up to six weeks following surgery.
Gastric Bypass Surgery
What is gastric bypass surgery?
This procedure divides the stomach into a small upper pouch and a larger lower pouch. The small intestine is then rearranged to connect to both parts.
Who is eligible for gastric bypass surgery?
Gastric bypass requirements are the same as those for gastric sleeve surgery.
What is the gastric bypass recovery time?
If the surgery is laparoscopic (small cuts are made instead of one large incision), recovery time is relatively short. Most patients remain in the hospital for two to three days and are back on their feet within three to five weeks.
When considering the different types of weight loss surgery, it is very important to discuss your medical history and alternative weight loss attempts with your physician.
If you have any questions, feel free to post in the comments section below.
