Top questions and answers about Gastric sleeve surgery

Top questions and answers about Gastric sleeve surgery
  • last update date 2021-09-23

If you are interested in gastric sleeve surgery to help you lose weight, it is necessary to learn more about it and get your questions answered if you have any. Here is a list of some common questions and answers you might think about before deciding on your operation appointment! 

Table of contents

What is gastric sleeve surgery?

Gastric sleeve surgery is a weight-loss solution that can get rid of obesity surgically. It removes 80% of the stomach, leaving a small part that will not enable the patient to eat the amount he used to before the surgery.

Why is it a gastric sleeve surgery? Is it worth it?

Gastric sleeve operation can help you lose about 50% of your weight within 18 to 24 months. Have a look at the gastric sleeve before and after pictures and patients' reviews. You will see that patients who follow the pre & post-operative instructions receive favorable results.

By gastric sleeve, you can lose a large amount of weight that is difficult to get rid of through exercise and diet. Furthermore, gastric sleeves can improve the quality of your life by protecting you from obesity-related health issues, including diabetes, high blood pressure, and apnea.

How is gastric sleeve surgery done?

Gastric sleeve surgery has been performed using a laparoscope inserted through small incisions into the abdomen. The telescope is equipped with a camera that enables the doctor to remove the target part of the stomach using surgical instruments. The small remaining parts will be the new patient's stomach after suturing it together. 

Who qualifies for a gastric sleeve?

The right candidate for gastric sleeve surgery should be in good health with a body mass index of at least 35. People who have lower BMI are not recommended to go ahead with gastric sleeve surgery.

Gastric sleeve VS gastric bypass: Why gastric sleeve instead of bypass? 

Both gastric sleeve and bypass are performed laparoscopically. 

However, because gastric bypass surgery is a two-step procedure, it is regarded as more difficult than gastric sleeve surgery, which is a one-step procedure. As a result, you are most likely to spend longer recovery time after gastric bypass than sleeve gastrectomy.

Can gastric sleeve surgery be reversed?

Unlike gastric band or gastric bypass which can be reversed, sleeve gastrectomy is a permanent procedure that can not be adjustable. Therefore, you should make sure that you are comfortable with the idea of the permanence of gastric sleeve surgery. 

Are gastric sleeve results permanent?

Gastric sleeve surgery usually provides long-term weight loss. However, it is not a treatment for obesity on its own. You should change your lifestyle, follow a balanced diet and do exercise. Otherwise, you may gain the weight back. 

Is gastric sleeve painful?

 

Is gastric sleeve painful?

Indeed, you may experience some stomach pain after gastric sleeve surgery for the first week after the surgery. However, by taking the necessary pain medications described by your doctor, your pain will be under control. 

Is gastric sleeve safe?

Generally, gastric sleeve surgery is relatively safe. However, sleeve gastrectomy, like other plastic operations, is linked to side effects like bleeding, discomfort, blood clots, and infections. Therefore, you are encouraged to choose a good clinic where you can ensure a successful procedure with fewer complications. 

Can you drink alcohol after gastric sleeve surgery?

Typically, you should avoid drinking alcohol before and after sleeve gastrectomy. However, after your operation, you will have to stay away from alcohol for a longer period which is about six months after the procedure. Remember that drinking alcohol after gastric surgery might lead to intoxication and low blood sugar levels. 

How long does it take to recover after gastric sleeve surgery? 

Typically, the patient needs to stay in the hospital for 1 to 3 days after gastric sleeve surgery. He can go back to his normal activities within 4-6 weeks after the operation. However, recovery time varies from patient to patient. Each patient has a different case which has to do with the number and size of incisions. A larger incision means a longer recovery period is required. 

What is the post-operative diet for gastric sleeve surgery? 

After the operation, you cannot go back to your normal meals. You need to follow a new lifestyle. For the first day after your gastric sleeve, you must drink clear liquids only. Then, you have to have your meals in the form of pureed foods and protein shakes for around four weeks after the operation.

A month later, you can eat solid foods with a soft texture, but you should take your time and try to eat slowly. After three months of your operation, you can finally return to your normal meals, but not the same amount of food you used to eat before your surgery.  

Will gastric sleeve surgery help the fatty liver?

Indeed, several studies show bariatric surgeries may be an effective treatment for fatty liver disease.

Gastric sleeve for diabetes: Does diabetes go away after gastric sleeve?

When it comes to type 2 diabetes, gastric surgery can make a significant difference. After surgery, blood sugar levels can return to normal for some patients with diabetes. In some cases, diabetes can be cured completely. 

How much does gastric sleeve surgery cost in Turkey?

Turkey is a popular destination for patients seeking safe and effective gastric sleeve surgery. In addition, compared to the United States and Europe, Turkey's gastric sleeve surgery costs are low. The gastric sleeve surgery cost can vary widely from one clinic to another due to factors like the quality of medical equipment and techniques and the doctor's talent level.