The amount of weight needed for a gastric sleeve surgery depends on various factors, including your BMI and overall health. Generally, the goal is for your BMI (Body Mass Index) to be 40 or greater, or for you to be at least 100 pounds overweight.
Your doctor will assess you and consider your overall health to decide if gastric sleeve surgery is an appropriate option for you.
During your consultation with a bariatric surgeon, they will consider your long-term health goals and goals for weight loss to make sure gastric sleeve surgery is the ideal option. They will also do an assessment to determine your health and then decide if you are an appropriate candidate.
Generally, after surgery, you will start seeing some progress relatively quickly. However, it is still important to continue to put in effort towards lifestyle changes, like maintaining a healthy diet and exercising regularly.
This will allow you to achieve your goals of successful, healthy weight loss.
Table of Contents
Can you get gastric sleeve at any weight?
No, you cannot get a gastric sleeve procedure at any weight. Generally, a bariatric surgical procedure, such as a gastric sleeve, is not recommended for patients with a body mass index (BMI) below 30.
This means that patients must be either overweight or obese before the procedure can be recommended. Additionally, certain health conditions or lifestyle factors can make a patient ineligible for the procedure.
This is why the patient must meet with a healthcare provider before a procedure like a gastric sleeve can be considered. The healthcare provider will discuss the patient’s health history and medical concerns, evaluate overall health and determine if the patient is a good candidate for the procedure.
Ultimately, before any surgery, the patient must be evaluated and make an informed decision about the potential risks and benefits of the procedure.
Can I get a gastric sleeve with a BMI of 30?
Yes, you can get a gastric sleeve with a body mass index (BMI) of 30. Generally, to be considered eligible for this type of bariatric surgery, a patient should have a BMI of 40 or higher, and they should have not been able to lose weight with traditional, nonsurgical methods.
However, if a patient has a BMI of 35-39. 9 and they have comorbidities (diabetes, heart disease, sleep apnea, etc. ), they can be considered for the gastric sleeve procedure.
It’s important to note that even if you are eligible for the surgery with a BMI of 30, it is best to aim for a lower BMI and to optimize your health before undergoing the operation. Your physician will be able to offer guidance on which specialized approach, dietary plan, and exercise regimen are best for you.
Additionally, you should attend an educational seminar to gain a complete understanding of the procedure, its potential risks and benefits, and the lifestyle changes required following the operation.
How many years does gastric sleeve add to your life?
The exact amount of years that gastric sleeve surgery can add to your life cannot be definitively answered, as every individual is different. However, recent studies have shown that bariatric surgery like gastric sleeve can result in a better quality of life and reduced risk of mortality in obese individuals.
Specifically, a study of British adults with obesity who had gastric sleeve surgery showed that the risk of death over the 10-year follow-up was reduced by 29% compared to individuals who did not have the surgery.
Additionally, a study in the United States found that the 10-year mortality rate for individuals who had gastric sleeve was 45% lower than those who did not have the surgery. Therefore, while the exact amount of years cannot be determined, studies suggest that gastric sleeve surgery can potentially add more years onto a person’s life.
Who Cannot have gastric sleeve?
Gastric sleeve surgery is not for everyone. Generally speaking, those who are not appropriate candidates for this surgery may include those with the following conditions:
-Significant mental health issues: People who have bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and other mental health conditions should not have gastric sleeve surgery, as those conditions can be exacerbated by the effects of the surgery, particularly any changes in nutrition.
-Severe liver disease: Gastric sleeve effects the liver, so those with severe liver damage should be evaluated carefully before pursuing the surgery.
-Uncontrolled major medical problems: Those who have severe infections, or uncontrolled diabetes or hypertension, may not be considered good candidates for the surgery.
-Heart disease: Those with severe heart disease or issues affecting other vital organs may need further evaluation before the surgery.
-Substance abuse: Those who have abusive relationships with drugs, alcohol, and other drugs may need to seek alternative treatments.
-Gastrointestinal issues: Those with certain severe gastrointestinal problems or hernias may need alternative treatments to gastric sleeve surgery.
-Pregnancy: Pregnant women should not pursue the surgery, as the surgery may cause adverse effects on the fetus’ development.
It is also important to speak with a medical professional if you have any doubt regarding your eligibility for gastric sleeve surgery, as they will be the most qualified to determine if the procedure is right for you.
What can disqualify you from bariatric surgery?
Bariatric surgery is a serious procedure that comes with its own set of risks, so there are a few things that can disqualify a person from having the surgery. The main disqualification criteria can vary depending on each individual’s health and weight loss history; however, some of the most common criteria include having active medical issues or diseases that may put the person at risk during the surgery or after, having a history of substance abuse or addiction, having a BMI of less than 30, or having a history of mental illness or an eating disorder.
Additionally, bariatric surgery may be denied to anyone who is exhibiting certain behaviors such as extreme dieting habits, significant weight cycling, or frequently losing and gaining weight. Finally, patients may also be disqualified from having the surgery if they are not able to make dietary and lifestyle changes before and after the surgery, or if they are not able to commit to lifelong follow-up visits and consultations with their doctor.
Why would I get denied for bariatric surgery?
First and foremost, your doctor must determine that your medical condition is severe enough to benefit from surgery. This means they will evaluate your health and risk factors to make sure bariatric surgery is the right decision and that you are likely to be successful with the procedure.
Additionally, your doctor will review your past medical history and any other risk factors to ensure safety.
Other considerations that might lead to a denial include a lack of preparation. Before scheduling surgery, you should work with a dietitian to make sure you are eating healthy and low-calorie foods and that you are exercising regularly.
It is important to show that you are taking steps to prepare for surgery and that you are dedicated to making post-surgery lifestyle changes. Your age and overall health can also be considered. Generally, bariatric surgery is not recommended for people over the age of 65 due to increased risks of complications.
Inaccurate or incomplete documentation is another reason why you could be denied. You must provide your doctor with accurate information about your BMI, lab tests, and any other health-related details that your doctor requests.
Finally, any history of substance abuse, alcohol or drug addiction can result in a denial of bariatric surgery. Because of the potential risks associated with these conditions, some bariatric surgeons may deny surgery if they feel the risks are too high.
Overall, you should talk to your doctor to discuss your individual considerations and make sure you are taking the necessary steps to prepare for surgery. With proper preparation, you should be able to meet the criteria and receive approval for bariatric surgery.
Is gastric sleeve a painful surgery?
Gastric sleeve surgery is typically an outpatient procedure and is considered to be relatively safe and effective. However, it is a major surgery and there can be potential complications, so it’s important to discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
Generally speaking, the procedure is not very painful, although there will be some discomfort during and after the surgery. During the procedure, you may experience some pressure as the surgeon operates, but you should be able to receive sedation or anesthesia to eliminate the pain.
Following the surgery, you may experience some pain and discomfort but your doctor should be able to provide medications to help you manage this. Overall, for most people, the discomfort experienced during and after the surgery is manageable and does not interfere with their recovery.
How hard is the recovery from gastric sleeve?
The recovery from gastric sleeve can vary from person to person. Immediately after the surgery, patients should expect to experience some pain, fatigue, and nausea. It’s important to rest and follow doctor instructions to ensure a speedy and successful recovery.
At first, the body needs time to heal the surgical wounds. Most people are able to return to their normal activities within a few weeks, though they should still take it easy and refrain from strenuous activities that could cause further physical stress.
The real challenge of recovery comes with the dietary changes. After surgery, the stomach’s capacity is reduced and it may be difficult to eat and digest large meals. Patients should stick to a diet of small, frequent meals to help manage hunger.
Eating slower and chewing more thoroughly is also recommended. Drinking plenty of fluids during meals is also important to prevent dehydration. After the recovery period is over, most people find that they have more energy and can maintain a healthy weight with the help of a nutritious and balanced diet.
How will I feel after gastric sleeve surgery?
The emotional effects of gastric sleeve surgery are often overlooked. It’s important to understand, however, that the journey to recovery is both physical and emotional. After gastric sleeve surgery, many patients experience a wide range of emotions, including relief, confusion, physical discomfort, and even depression.
Immediately After Surgery
After the surgery, you may experience physical and emotional reactions such as confusion, dizziness, and even euphoria. Many patients talk of feeling “high” from the anesthesia. You may also find comfort from being free from the restrictions imposed by a large digestive system and the effects of obesity.
The First Week and Beyond
The first week after surgery will likely involve some physical pain and discomfort. You may also have to adapt to a new, restricted diet. Any weight you have already lost may lead to disappointment or sadness for not seeing the expected results.
For the first several weeks, you’ll likely experience fluctuations in your emotional state. Some days may be great, while others can bring feelings of depression. If you know this, then it can be easier to plan accordingly, set realistic expectations, and make sure you have support of family, friends, and an emotional support system in place.
Long-term
Overall, most patients with gastric sleeve surgery report feeling a great sense of accomplishment in reaching their weight loss goals, improved self-esteem and self-confidence, and greater participation in activities they may not have attempted before.
In addition, they may experience enhanced relationships with their partners and families, as many experience greater bonding after losing weight and feeling more comfortable in their own skin. However, feeling the emotional effects of surgery can often be a roller coaster ride with its own ebbs and flows.
To truly make the most of the surgery, it’s important to have realistic expectations, to stay connected to a support group, and make lifestyle changes that are sustainable and healthy.
What foods are forbidden after gastric sleeve?
There are certain foods that are not recommended to eat after having gastric sleeve surgery, including high sugar and high calorie foods, fatty, greasy, and fried foods, overly processed foods, cream sauces, and trans fats.
It is also recommended to avoid carbonated beverages and alcohol. Foods that are high in fiber and difficult to digest such as popcorn, nuts, seeds, and fibrous vegetables like broccoli, and cauliflower, should also be avoided for a time.
Additionally, patients should limit their intake of high-sugar fruits such as grapes and bananas, as well as high-sugar foods like candy and desserts. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day is still recommended, and if the patient finds that they can tolerate dairy, low-fat or fat-free milk products are fine.
It is important to remember that gastric sleeve surgery is just a tool to help promote a healthier lifestyle change. Eating smaller, healthy, low-calorie, nutrient-dense meals will help ensure success after the surgery.
As the patient adjusts to the smaller stomach pouch that forms after the surgery, it is important to focus on high-protein and nutritious options to prevent nutritional deficiencies. Snacking between meals should be avoided, as it may lead to stretching the stomach pouch.
Speaking with a doctor and nutritionist can be immensely helpful in developing a diet plan that works for the individual needs of the patient.
How long does gastric sleeve surgery usually take?
Gastric sleeve surgery usually takes about one to two hours. The actual procedure involves removing 80% of the stomach from left to right, leaving a much smaller sleeve of stomach. During the surgery, the surgeon will staple or suture shut the stomach, creating a small banana- or sleeve-shaped stomach.
The surgeon will then attach the smaller stomach directly to the small intestine.
After the surgery, patients will stay in the hospital for about one to three days to make sure that their bodies are recovering properly. It is important for insurance to cover this time because the medical teams need to observe the patient and adjust the medication levels if necessary.
Follow-up with nutritionists and physicians is also essential in the follow-up period to determine the patient’s dietary needs and make sure the body is healing correctly.
Will I ever enjoy food again after gastric sleeve?
Yes, you will definitely enjoy eating again after the procedure of gastric sleeve. It may take some time for you to get used to the new way of eating habits you need to follow after your treatment, but with discipline, you can learn to enjoy food again.
Eating will be slower and more mindful as you will now be eating smaller portions due to the smaller size of your stomach pouch. However, you can still enjoy a variety of nutritious and flavorful foods.
Eating healthy and including lean proteins, fruits, vegetables and whole grains in your diet will help you maximize the benefits of the surgery. Additionally, drinking plenty of fluids is crucial to stay hydrated and to avoid constipation.
To make meals enjoyable, focus on flavors and textures of the food you’re eating and make sure to chew your food well. Taking your time with meals, savoring each bite and paying attention to how full you are feeling are good habits to adopt to make sure you get the best out of your new healthy lifestyle.
How long do you stay in hospital after gastric sleeve?
The length of stay in the hospital after a gastric sleeve procedure will depend on the individual patient and the type of surgery they are undergoing. Generally, patients can expect to stay in the hospital from 1 to 3 days.
Some patients may be discharged sooner if clinical guidelines allow for it. Some centers may also offer fast-track programs in which the patient is released early in their recovery if specific criteria are met.
It is important to plan for postoperative care with your health care team prior to your surgery. Usually, a short-term follow-up visit is scheduled for about seven to 14 days after surgery and regular follow-up visits with your surgeon are recommended to monitor your progress.
Additionally, a nutrition meeting is recommended to ensure proper eating habits after surgery.
The majority of patients return to regular activities within two weeks of their procedure, however the recovery timeline can vary depending on the individual and the type of procedure they received. It is important to follow-up with your health care team and follow their instructions for postoperative care and follow-up to ensure a safe and successful recover.
Does insurance cover gastric sleeve?
Whether or not insurance covers gastric sleeve surgery depends on the individual insurance provider. Gastric sleeve surgery is considered a bariatric or weight-loss surgery. Generally, most insurance providers will cover at least part of the cost of a gastric sleeve procedure if it is deemed medically necessary.
In order to determine whether or not your insurance provider will pay for gastric sleeve surgery, you will need to contact them directly. When you contact your insurance provider, make sure to find out what paperwork is needed for pre-approval of the cost.
Additionally, some insurance companies may require you to try other medical weight loss treatments such as lifestyle modifications, changes to diet and nutrition, or medication before they cover the gastric sleeve procedure.
Finally, most insurance companies will require you to demonstrate that you have maintained an appropriate body mass index (BMI) for a certain period of time before they agree to cover the cost of the surgery.
This can range from one to two years, so it is important to discuss these requirements with your insurance provider prior to undergoing the procedure.
