Best Sleeve Gastrectomy in Los Angeles

Reasons for a Sleeve Gastrectomy

In order to be eligible for a sleeve gastrectomy, you’ll need to have a BMI (body mass index) of 40 or more. If you have a health issue like diabetes or sleep apnea that would likely improve with weight loss surgery, you may be considered an acceptable candidate if your BMI is between 35 and 39.

Before seeking out the best sleeve gastrectomy in Los Angeles for your goals and needs, also consider your reasons for having this procedure in the first place. This type of surgery may also reduce your risk of developing potentially serious medical problems such as heart disease, stroke, infertility, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Preparations for Surgery

Since unique patient characteristics should be considered, the best sleeve gastrectomy in Los Angeles normally performs various lab tests and a thorough physical examination prior to surgery. Because of the need to properly prepare the anesthesia, you’ll also be asked about any prescription and over-the-counter medications you may be taking, including vitamins and herbal supplements.

If you are taking blood thinners for another condition, you may be asked to talk to your primary care physician about temporarily stopping or changing your medication to avoid bleeding risks during surgery. It’s also best to make an effort to manage any underlying health issues you may have, such as type 2 diabetes or chronic high blood pressure.

How Surgery Is Performed

An open sleeve gastrectomy is performed with a large abdominal incision. Increasingly, however, the best sleeve gastrectomy in Los Angeles can be performed with less-invasive methods. If a laparoscopic procedure is right for your situation, smaller incisions will be made in the upper abdomen to insert specially sized and designed instruments. A flexible scope with a lighted camera attached is also used to give the surgeon a better view of the stomach, intestines, and related structures.

With both open and laparoscopic surgery, the stomach is vertically stapled. During the procedure, the curved, larger portion of the stomach is removed. Doing so creates a “sleeve,” which is where food will be go when ingested. Because your stomach will be smaller, you’ll consume fewer calories and become fuller sooner.

The best sleeve gastrectomy in Los Angeles is also one that involves active involvement from patients. This typically includes staring a physical activity program before surgery. There’s research suggesting patients who begin exercising prior to weight loss surgery are more likely to have an easier time adjusting to post-surgery exercise recommendations. Planning ahead for your recovery by arranging for some assistance around the house can be helpful as well. If laparoscopic techniques are used, recovery time may be shorter. Most people are able to resume work 4-6 weeks after surgery.