In today’s world, obesity is one of the most common chronic conditions which is in need of novel treatment modalities and preventive measures. If lifestyle, eating habits, and exercise routines haven’t helped you to lose weight, bariatric surgery or weight-loss surgery could be another option. There are different types of weight loss surgeries that can help you to achieve your long-term goal.
You must consult your doctor regarding the type of weight-loss surgery that is suitable for you. Gastric sleeve and laparoscopic band surgery are the two common types of surgical procedures that aid in reducing the weight. Before choosing a surgery, you must be aware of the procedure, risks and benefits that help you to make an appropriate decision.
What is the difference between gastric sleeve and lap-band surgery?
In gastric sleeve surgery, the surgeon removes 60 to 80 % of your stomach leaving a banana-shaped portion of the stomach. Although it is an invasive procedure, it provides superior weight loss in the first 10 months of the surgery.
In lap-band surgery, the surgeon inserts an inflatable lap band around the stomach that divides the stomach into two portions (small upper section and large lower section). The surgeon adjusts the size of the band by inflating or deflating it using a port under the skin. Thus, the procedure slows down the emptying of the stomach leading to a dramatical restriction of the food intake.
Who is eligible?
Gastric sleeve surgery is recommended for the morbidly obese patients whose body mass index is greater than 40. Lap-band surgery is recommended for the individuals with a body mass index of greater than 30.
Is the procedure reversible?
The lap-band surgery does not involve incisions or the removal of the part of the stomach, therefore, procedure can be reversed by removing the band. But in the gastric sleeve surgery, the surgeon removes a part of the stomach which cannot be replaced again.
How it works to help lose weight?
With lap-band surgery, the formation of smaller pouch and the band, limits the amount of food intake and creates satiety. Reduction in the food intake will stop storing excess calories and uses the fat for energy supply. Similarly, gastric sleeve surgery also limits the food intake and reduces the hunger sensation.
What are the benefits and risks?
- Lap-band surgery: The risks include infection, stoma obstruction, frequent adjustments of the band, and band slippage. The procedure has many benefits such as quick recovery period, non-invasive procedure, reversible procedure, low risk of malnutrition, and low rate of complications.
- Gastric sleeve surgery: The general surgical risks associated with gastric sleeve include formation of blood clots, bleeding, infection, and pneumonia. Also, the procedure can’t be reversed and there is an increased risk of leakage at stomach suture. The benefits include reduction of hunger and do not require a device to be implanted in the body.
Weight loss surgery has been proved to be effective in producing significant and sustained weight loss. While opting for one of the surgeries, you must consider whether you are looking for a temporary or permanent solution for weight loss. Considering a weight loss surgery alone for losing weight isn’t enough. For long-term results, you must follow a healthy lifestyle, diet and perform regular exercise.
heartcareweb 