The Biggest Benefits of Gastric Sleeve Surgery

When it comes to bariatric surgeries, gastric sleeve surgery stands out as a life-changing option for individuals struggling with obesity. Why? The benefits of gastric sleeve surgery are numerous. This transformative surgery helps reduce weight and significantly improves overall health and quality of life. 

Here, we delve into the many benefits of gastric sleeve surgery, shedding light on why it might be the right choice for those seeking a healthier future.

What is Gastric Sleeve Surgery?

Let's first start by defining gastric sleeve surgery. Gastric sleeve surgery, or laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy, is the most common type of bariatric surgery seen globally due to its relative simplicity and effectiveness.

During gastric sleeve surgery, a surgeon removes roughly 60-80% of one's stomach, particularly the area that produces the hunger hormone Ghrelin and the portion that stretches the most. The stomach becomes smaller and in a manner of saying, is now shaped like a banana.

Due to its size reduction and loss of compliance, the stomach no longer holds as much food, and a patient feels full much earlier in a meal. This leads to fewer calories consumed and improved metabolism, which in turn leads to weight loss. A reduction in Ghrelin levels helps rebalance a sensor in the brain to reduce the hunger drive. Even more, though, increased gastric motility in a sleeve can also stimulate GLP and GIP hormones and again positively improve one's hunger balance centre - just like drugs like Ozempic or Mounjaro. All of this happens from a procedure that is completed in 45 minutes.

Now that we've defined what the procedure entails let's look at the benefits of gastric sleeve surgery.

Significant & Sustained Weight Loss

The biggest and most immediate benefit of gastric sleeve surgery is significant weight loss. Patients typically lose 60-70% of their excess body weight within the first year post-surgery. This dramatic weight reduction can be life-altering, helping patients achieve a healthier body mass index (BMI) and reducing the strain on their bodies - heart, lungs, back, knees etc.

And, unlike many other weight loss methods, gastric sleeve surgery offers a more sustainable solution. While diet and exercise are essential components of a healthy lifestyle, they often fall short for those struggling with their weight. Gastric sleeve surgery provides a long-term solution by physically altering the stomach's capacity, making it easier to maintain weight loss. 

Combined with lifestyle changes, gastric sleeve surgery can help patients achieve significant weight loss and sustain it. 

Minimally Invasive & Safer

Gastric sleeve surgery is performed laparoscopically by inserting a camera and instruments into the abdomen through tiny incisions. It doesn't require large incisions or rerouting the intestinal tract like a gastric bypass procedure, making recovery much quicker and less painful.

Improvement in Obesity-Related Conditions

High body weight often brings with it a host of related health conditions, including Type 2 diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea, fatty liver disease and cardiovascular diseases. Gastric sleeve surgery can lead to remarkable improvements in these conditions. 

Many patients experience a resolution or significant improvement in Type 2 diabetes, with some even achieving complete remission. Blood pressure levels often stabilise, and the risk of heart disease diminishes as the patient sheds excess weight. This means resolution of disease states while they are still reversible and before long term, permanent complications can set in.

The impact of sustainable weight loss on women suffering from weight related infertility and PCOS is also a huge plus. Previous studies in this field have shown women after surgical weight loss have noted fewer PCOS symptoms and infertility rates that have dropped considerably. 

Longevity and Reduced Mortality Risk

Obesity is associated with a higher risk of premature death due to its correlation with various life-threatening conditions. Gastric sleeve surgery can significantly reduce this risk. Studies have shown that individuals who undergo bariatric surgery have a lower mortality rate compared to those who do not. 

By addressing obesity and its related health issues, patients can look forward to a longer, healthier life.

Enhanced Quality of Life

The benefits of gastric sleeve surgery extend beyond physical health. Weight loss can significantly enhance a person's quality of life. Patients often report increased mobility, allowing them to engage in previously challenging physical activities. This newfound freedom can lead to a more active and fulfilling lifestyle. 

Additionally, the boost in self-esteem and confidence from achieving a healthier body weight can positively impact mental health, reducing the risk of depression and anxiety.

Reduction in Hunger and Cravings

Gastric sleeve surgery restricts the amount of food one can consume and affects the production of Ghrelin, the hormone responsible for stimulating hunger. 

With a substantial portion of the stomach removed, the production of Ghrelin decreases, reducing hunger and cravings. This hormonal change makes it easier for patients to adhere to a healthier diet, promoting sustained weight loss and healthier eating habits.

Experience the Benefits of Gastric Sleeve Surgery with MyLife Bariatrics

Gastric sleeve surgery offers many benefits for individuals battling obesity, from significant weight loss and improvement in obesity-related health conditions to enhanced quality of life and sustainable results. If you're considering bariatric surgery, reach out to the team at MyLife Bariatrics to determine if gastric sleeve surgery is the right option for you.

Book a consultation with us today or call MyLife Bariatrics at (416) 249-7899. You can also visit mylifebariatrics.com and follow us on Instagram or Facebook.