Introduction to Laparoscopic Gastric Sleeve
One of the most effective weight loss surgery methods, a laparoscopic gastric sleeve procedure, works by reducing the size of the stomach, thereby limiting the amount of food that can be ingested. The procedure also removes the portion of the stomach that produces a hormone that can contribute to making you feel hungry, further helping you limit your food intake and reduce your weight.
There are several variations in the name for this procedure, including “vertical sleeve gastrectomy” or simply “gastric sleeve procedure.” Note that these all refer to the same type of weight loss surgery. The surgery is often compared to gastric banding procedures (such as Lap-Band) but offers several advantages over those procedures:
- Comparable weight loss, but generally faster than with the gastric band
- No band device or other foreign implanted material in your body
- Surgical risk is lower because sleeve gastrectomy is a simpler operation
- Less food intolerance and sensitivity for most patients
Note that unlike gastric banding or other weight loss options such as , the gastric sleeve procedure is irreversible since a portion of the stomach is permanently removed.
We offer convenient and easy appointments where you can learn about all of the weight loss options Dr. Moein offers. You can contact or give us a call, and our friendly staff members will be happy to book your visit.
DR. BABAK MOEIN, MD FACS
RENOWNED LOS ANGELES PLASTIC SURGERY
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The Procedure
The word “laparoscopic” in laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy refers to the use of a laparoscope, a small camera, that Dr. Moein inserts into an incision to help guide him when performing the surgery. The use of the laparoscope allows the doctor to avoid having to cut open the abdominal area. Instead, he will make 5 or 6 smaller incisions for inserting the laparoscope and other surgical instruments. The laparoscopic method can offer several advantages compared to open surgery:
- Less visible scarring on the abdomen
- Increased comfort
- A shorter hospital stay and quicker recovery
- Reduced risk of infections, adhesions, and internal scarring
Dr. Moein will remove 60% to 90% of the stomach when performing a laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy. This reduced size and capacity consequently limit your food intake and helps to achieve significant weight loss. During the procedure, the stomach is divided into 2 parts, with the excess section removed and the remaining section stapled shut to form a new, smaller stomach.
This smaller stomach, roughly the size and shape of a banana, looks something like a sleeve along the digestive tract, which is where the “sleeve” part of the procedure gets its name. Besides the smaller capacity of the stomach, the normal function of your digestive system is unchanged after the procedure.
Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy Recovery
You will remain in the hospital for a couple of days following your procedure as testing is done and your vitals are monitored. You will be sent home with a prescription for pain management and detailed instructions about diet, care of incisions, and activity restrictions. During the recovery period, you will gradually transition from clear liquids to a diet of small portions of solid food.
It is very important to follow post-operative instructions closely and work your way into new habits so that you can see the best weight-loss results in the long term. A healthy diet of smaller meals, combined with regular exercise and other hallmarks of healthy living, will greatly improve your initial weight loss and help you maintain a healthy weight range.
Remember that Dr. Moein and his staff will be with you every step of the way. He’ll answer all your questions at your initial consultation, check in with you regularly right after surgery, and schedule several follow-up visits to monitor your weight loss and ensure that you are recovering successfully.
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Contact our office today and schedule an informative consultation about laparoscopic gastric sleeve surgery. Dr. Moein and the staff at Möein Surgical Arts are available to answer any questions you have to help you make the best decision to achieve your weight-loss goals.
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