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Losing a significant amount of weight is no simple task, but weight loss surgery makes it much easier. At Murrieta Valley Surgery Associates, with offices in Wildomar, Temecula, Hemet, and Corona, California, the skilled general, vascular, and bariatric surgeons offer laparoscopic vertical sleeve gastrectomy to help you lose excess weight quickly. Schedule an evaluation by calling the office or booking an appointment online today.
What is laparoscopic vertical sleeve gastrectomy?
A laparoscopic vertical sleeve gastrectomy is a type of bariatric surgery, or weight loss surgery, in which your surgeon removes part of your stomach to make it much smaller. The procedure removes about 80% of your stomach. Having a smaller stomach helps you feel full after eating smaller portions of food, thereby reducing your food intake to maximize weight loss.
Am I a candidate for laparoscopic vertical sleeve gastrectomy?
Your surgeon determines which bariatric surgery is best after weighing you, determining your body mass index (BMI), and reviewing your lifestyle and medical history. They check your vital signs, complete a physical exam and lab work, and discuss your desired outcome.
Candidates for laparoscopic vertical sleeve gastrectomy include people with BMIs of 40 or higher and patients with BMIs of 35-40 who also have Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, or other chronic conditions. Some people with BMIs of 30-35 also qualify for weight loss surgery.
Weight loss after surgery can reduce your risk of heart disease, stroke, heart attack, cancer, infertility, and other obesity-related complications. You must be willing to make healthy, permanent lifestyle changes.
How should I prepare for a laparoscopic vertical sleeve gastrectomy?
Follow your surgeon’s instructions before undergoing a laparoscopic vertical sleeve gastrectomy. They may ask you to lose some weight, alter your diet and exercise routine, and stop taking certain medications before the procedure. Make arrangements for someone to drive you home after surgery, and avoid eating and drinking after midnight before your gastrectomy.
What can I expect during surgery?
You receive general anesthesia to make you fall asleep before surgery. Your surgeon makes tiny incisions in your upper abdomen. They turn your stomach into a narrow sleeve shape by stapling it vertically, removing a large portion, and closing the incisions.
The surgery often lasts 1-2 hours. Afterward, spend time resting in a recovery area. You might remain at the surgery center for a night or two.
What happens after laparoscopic vertical sleeve gastrectomy?
After the procedure, follow all post-surgery instructions. Initially, follow a liquid diet and progress to soft foods for several weeks before switching to regular foods. Take multivitamins as instructed, gradually increase physical activity, and attend follow-up appointments. Maintain healthy habits to keep lost weight off for a lifetime.
Schedule a consultation at Murrieta Valley Surgery Associates by phone or online today to determine if a laparoscopic vertical sleeve gastrectomy is right for you.