3 Benefits of Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy Surgery

Laparoscopic and bariatric surgery is a general term for minimally invasive weight loss surgery. In this type of procedure, the surgeon uses a small camera instrument called a laparoscope to access the abdomen and pelvis without making large incisions.

Among the new and popular types of laparoscopic weight loss surgery is sleeve gastrectomy. The surgery is recommended for those who suffer from morbid obesity. Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy surgery permanently removes 60% to 85% of the stomach so it can only hold about 50 to 150ml of food. The reduced stomach allows patients to feel full sooner than before.

Here are some of the significant benefits of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy surgery.

1. Long-term results

This surgery removes the upper rounded part of the stomach called the fundus. The fundus is the part responsible for producing hormones called ghrelin which stimulates a person’s appetite. The hormonal changes that happen in the body can maximize the results of sleeve gastrectomy surgery, so patients experience fewer hunger pangs and allowing them to control their food intake better. This will be beneficial in achieving or maintaining excess weight loss. Although results vary, most patients reportedly experience 30% to 60% extra weight loss within the first 12 months of the procedure.

2. Safer procedure

Now compared to lap band surgery, this procedure keeps the nerves to the stomach and the outlet valve (pylorus) intact. The stomach is still connected to the inlet and outlet, too. This way, it can limit the capacity of the stomach to hold food while preserving its natural functions.

3. Faster recovery time

Unlike laparoscopic gastric bypass weight loss surgery, sleeve gastrectomy requires a shorter hospital stay not only because the procedure is minimally invasive but because it doesn’t involve cutting or alteration of intestines. That means there will be less scarring and no risk of dumping syndrome. The recovery time is faster and perhaps, more manageable