In comparing the two weight loss operations, both have pros and cons. Ultimately, it's a personal decision of which bariatric surgery is best for you. The best way to decide is to attend a weight loss seminar and speak with a bariatric surgeon about your condition. Your doctor can give you information that is relevant to your situation. Analyze everything and make the choice that is best for you.
In comparing the two weight loss operations, both have pros and cons. Ultimately, it's a personal decision of which bariatric surgery is best for you.
Gastric Sleeve Surgery
This procedure, also known as a sleeve gastrectomy, removes about 80% of your stomach. The remaining stomach tissue forms a sleeve that is sealed using surgical staples. The remaining stomach is much smaller than its original size, permanently limiting the amount of food you can eat at one time.
Lap Band Surgery
Also referred to as adjustable gastric banding, an access port is implanted just below the skin near the stomach. An adjustable band is wrapped around the stomach and attached to the access port with tubing. The band is filled with saline solution. As the band expands, it creates two stomachs, a smaller pouch on top, and a larger pouch on the bottom to limit food intake, since the smaller pouch is the "first" stomach food reaches.
Advantages of the Gastric Band
No stapling and no cutting.
It can be adjusted.
Shorter hospitalization.
Can be removed or reversed.
Advantages of the Sleeve Gastrectomy
Minimally invasive.
No intestinal bypass.
No foreign objects implanted in the body.
The gastric sleeve is the most modern weight loss surgery procedure. It works by reducing food absorption and curbing regular hunger signals. It is a single surgery with no regular adjustments. Since the stomach functions exactly as before the sleeve gastrectomy, you can eat the foods you enjoy, just less of them. Removal of the larger part of the stomach eliminates the hormones that trigger hunger.
Similarities
Both are restrictive types of weight loss surgery.
Both procedures can be done laproscopically.
The intestines are not affected or altered.
Neither procedure requires large incisions.
Differences
A gastric band can be removed; the sleeve gastrectomy is irreversible.
A Lap Band involves a foreign object being placed in your body; a gastric sleeve does not.
Lap band surgery patients are typically discharged the next day, whereas gastric sleeve patients usually stay in the hospital for two-three days. Lap band patients can normally return to regular activities fairly soon. Gastric sleeve patients generally experience swelling and discomfort for weeks, resulting in slower recovery. Gastric band surgery patients can drink a greater variety of liquids after the surgery. After a few weeks, it is okay to eat three regular sized (but healthy) meals a day after lap band surgery. The gastric sleeve, on the other hand, requires post-op patients to eat five to six small meals in a day.
Comparing sleeve gastrectomy and gastric band surgery definitely helps in your decision making process. Both are effective ways to treat obesity. The best way to decide is to attend a weight loss seminar and speak with a bariatric surgeon about your condition. Ask all the questions you have and don't hold back out of embarrassment or shame. Your doctor can give you information that is relevant to your situation. Analyze everything and make the choice that is best for you.
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