Gastric Sleeve Surgery in Mexico

Gastric sleeve surgery (sleeve gastrectomy) is a weight-loss procedure that removes approximately 75-80% of the stomach, creating a smaller, banana-shaped stomach pouch. This bariatric surgery helps patients lose weight by limiting food intake and reducing hunger hormones, resulting in 60-70% excess weight loss within the first year. The procedure is performed laparoscopically through small incisions, typically takes 60-90 minutes, and requires 1-2 days of hospital stay.

Understanding Gastric Sleeve Surgery

Definition and Procedure

Gastric sleeve surgery is a bariatric procedure that involves removing approximately 75-80% of the stomach, leaving behind a tubular or "sleeve-shaped" pouch about the size and shape of a banana. This smaller stomach restricts the amount of food you can consume at one time, helping you feel fuller faster and consume fewer calories.

Unlike other bariatric procedures such as gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy doesn't involve rerouting the intestines, making it a less complex operation with fewer long-term complications. The procedure is typically performed laparoscopically through small incisions in the abdomen, resulting in faster recovery times and minimal scarring.

According to the Cleveland Clinic, gastric sleeve is the most commonly performed weight loss surgery in the United States and worldwide, with approximately 150,000 procedures performed annually in the U.S. and 380,000 globally.

How Gastric Sleeve Surgery Works

The gastric sleeve procedure works through two primary mechanisms:

• Restriction: By reducing the stomach's size, the procedure limits the amount of food you can eat in one sitting.
• Hormonal Changes: Perhaps more importantly, the surgery removes the portion of the stomach that produces ghrelin, often called the "hunger hormone." This reduction in ghrelin production decreases appetite and food cravings, making it easier to maintain weight loss long-term.

The combination of these effects creates a powerful tool for sustainable weight loss. Most patients can expect to lose between 60-70% of their excess body weight within the first year after surgery.

Who Qualifies for Gastric Sleeve Surgery?

Not everyone struggling with weight issues is a candidate for gastric sleeve surgery. Generally, qualification requirements include:

• BMI (Body Mass Index): Typically, patients must have a BMI of 40 or higher (severe obesity), or a BMI of at least 35 with one or more obesity-related health conditions.
• Previous Weight Loss Attempts: Candidates should have made serious attempts to lose weight through diet and exercise without long-term success.
• Medical Necessity: The surgery is recommended for those with serious health conditions related to obesity, such to obesity, such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea, or heart disease.
• Psychological Readiness: Patients must be mentally prepared for the lifestyle changes required after surgery and demonstrate commitment to long-term follow-up care.
• Age: Most candidates are between 18 and 65 years old, though exceptions may be made based on individual health assessments.

Before qualifying for surgery, patients typically undergo comprehensive medical evaluations, including consultations with dietitians, psychologists, and other specialists to ensure they're physically and mentally prepared for the procedure and its aftermath.

The Gastric Sleeve Surgery Process

Pre-Surgery Preparation

Preparation for gastric sleeve surgery typically begins several weeks before the procedure:

• Medical Evaluation: Comprehensive testing to ensure you're healthy enough for surgery
• Dietary Guidelines: Most surgeons require a two-week liquid diet before surgery to reduce fat around the liver
• Lifestyle Changes: Patients are advised to quit smoking, limit alcohol, and begin an exercise routine
• Medication Adjustments: Some medications may need to be temporarily stopped before surgery

The Surgical Procedure

The gastric sleeve operation typically follows these steps:

1. Anesthesia: The procedure is performed under general anesthesia
2. Laparoscopic Approach: The surgeon makes 4-5 small incisions (about 1/2 inch each) in the abdomen
3. Stomach Division: The surgeon measures out the new stomach "sleeve" and uses a surgical stapler
4. Removal: Approximately 75-80% of the stomach is removed from the body
5. Closure: The surgeon checks for leaks or bleeding before closing the incisions

The entire procedure typically takes 60-90 minutes.

Post-Surgery Recovery

Immediately after surgery:

• Patients typically stay in the hospital for 1-2 days for monitoring
• Pain management and anti-nausea medications are provided as needed
• Patients begin a clear liquid diet under medical supervision

The recovery timeline generally follows this pattern:

• Week 1-2: Liquid diet only, with a focus on hydration and protein intake
• Week 3-4: Progression to pureed foods
• Week 5-6: Soft foods are introduced
• Week 7 onwards: Gradual return to solid foods with new eating habits

Most patients can return to work within 1-2 weeks and resume normal activities within 3-4 weeks, though strenuous exercise should be avoided for 4-6 weeks.