Health benefits of weight loss treatment
Advancements in keyhole surgery and technology have meant that weight loss surgery is safer and more successful than ever. More and more people are recognising the health benefits of weight loss such as the treatment and prevention of chronic health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, joint pain, sleep apnoea and even improved mental health and self-confidence.
Growing popularity of sleeve gastrectomy
Chances are that you have heard of the Sleeve Gastrectomy, also known as “Vertical Gastric Sleeve”. In fact, it is the most common weight loss procedure performed not only in Australia but also worldwide. Sleeve gastrectomy made up approximately 70% of all weight loss procedures in the last 12 months (financial year ending June 2020). In fact, over 11,843 sleeve gastrectomy’s were performed in Australia during this time. These numbers are predicted to continue growing rapidly as more and people realise the limitations of yo-yo diets and seek medical assistance for safe and effective surgical weight loss.
How is gastric sleeve surgery performed?
Sleeve gastrectomy surgery in a permanent keyhole procedure which involves removing 70-80% of the stomach. Patients remain with a smaller stomach which allows them to continue eating everyday normal food, but in a smaller portion and still feel full. Sleeve gastrectomy surgery also reduces the body’s level of hunger hormone known as Ghrelin which leads to further weight loss. Patients should expect to lose a minimum of 60-70% of their excess weight in the first 18 – 24months following surgery, however these results may vary depending on a patient’s starting weight, medical conditions, commitment to a healthy lifestyle and other factors. The most successful patients are those who remain engaged with their treating team before surgery and commit the aftercare programme with healthy balanced lifestyle choices.
Who qualifies for gastric sleeve surgery?
Even though Sleeve gastrectomy surgery is an excellent long term weight loss option for many patients, it is not automatically the right operation choice for everyone. There are many considerations discussed between you and your surgeon in choosing the right operation, simply because person is different. As a starting point, people who have a BMI (body mass index) of 30 or greater may be candidates to consider a sleeve gastrectomy. In addition, people with obesity related conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, joint pain, sleep apnoea, high blood pressure, infertility and many more may benefit from sleeve gastrectomy surgery.
Is gastric sleeve surgery right choice for people with severe acid reflux?
In some people sleeve gastrectomy may not always be the best choice, particularly if you have severe reflux (also known as heartburn), as this surgery may worsen these symptoms. Similarly, if you have had have significant previous surgery on your stomach or suffer from advanced diabetes, then your surgeon may also discuss an alternative operation.
Get in touch with Dr Andrew Kiyingi at Perth Bariatric surgery
Sleeve Gastrectomy surgery is a life changing operation for many of our patients and the most common feedback is “I Wish I had done this sooner”. If you are interested in finding out if Sleeve Gastrectomy is right for you, then the first step is easy, simply get in touch via phone or email and our team would love to make an initial appointment for you with our leading Specialist Surgeon Dr Andrew Kiyingi at Perth Bariatric Surgery. Its never too late to change your life story.
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