During gastric sleeve surgery, a section of the bottom of the stomach is removed.
If you are considering weight loss surgery, you might be wondering if it’s worth going through the process. It’s completely normal to have questions and concerns — there are so many options to choose from, and the prospect of major surgery can undoubtedly feel overwhelming.
One of the procedures that Dr Kevin Dolan offers is gastric sleeve surgery.
The treatment involves the removal of around three-quarters of the bottom part of the stomach, which reduces the amount of food that one can consume. But can you gain weight again after the surgery? And what can you expect after the procedure? Read on to find out more about gastric sleeve surgery, and whether it’s right for you…
What does the surgery involve?
During a gastric sleeve procedure, Dr Kevin Dolan will make small incisions in the abdomen through which he will insert special surgical tools. He will then carefully remove the lower part of the stomach. Once the relevant areas of the stomach have been removed, Dr Kevin Dolan will use a particular stapling device to close the sides of the remaining stomach sleeve.
How much weight can you expect to lose?
While each patient is different, it is possible to lose around one kilogram every week following surgery until you have reached a healthy body weight. Because the size of the stomach is reduced during the surgery, you will need to eat smaller portions, and you will find yourself with a reduced appetite — this, in turn, will lead to steady weight loss. When part of the stomach is removed, the body’s production of the hunger hormone (known as ghrelin) also drops significantly, so patients typically don’t feel hungry between meals and tend to reduce the number of calories they consume daily.
What are the benefits of gastric sleeve surgery?
There are a number of benefits to undergoing gastric sleeve surgery for those who would like to lose a significant amount of weight in the long term. The surgery is laparoscopic, which means it is minimally invasive, and scarring will be minimal. Recovery following this type of surgery is generally relatively quick, although it is essential to follow your doctor’s postoperative recommendations.
Can you gain weight after the procedure?
When it comes to weight loss surgery, you must commit to a healthy lifestyle for the sake of both your recovery and to make healthy, steady weight loss possible. It is possible to regain weight, although most patients find that the combination of reduced appetite, a balanced eating plan and an exercise plan all help them achieve and maintain healthy and stable body weight over time.
When you opt for gastric sleeve surgery with Dr Kevin Dolan, you will receive ongoing care after your surgery, which includes advice from a dietician, an exercise physiologist, your doctor and a counsellor. With the help of our team, you will have the guidance and support you need to recover from surgery and to work towards your weight loss goals in a way that feels sustainable and healthy.
If you would like to find out more about gastric sleeve surgery, download our free guide here. If you have questions about the procedure and would like to arrange a consultation with Dr Kevin Dolan, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us.