Best Sleeve Surgeon in Orange County

Determining Gastric Sleeve Eligibility

Once you find the best sleeve surgeon in Orange County for your needs, the next step they will likely take is to determine your eligibility for the procedure. Gastric sleeve surgery is typically intended for morbidly obese adult patients with a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher. Patients with a lower BMI may still qualify for this type of surgery as a standalone procedure if they have at least obesity-related health condition that would likely improve with significant weight loss, such as diabetes, sleep apnea, and chronic joint pain. A surgeon also makes sure patients are:

• Capable of handling the physical stress of the procedure
• Mentally prepared for surgical weight loss
• Willing to make the required lifestyle changes to increase the odds of reaching weight loss goals

Preparing Patients for Secondary Procedures

For many patients looking to shed an excessive amount of weight, the best sleeve surgeon in Orange County is one who is able to recommend strategic ways to achieve such weight loss goals. In some cases, this means making a gastric sleeve procedure that first part of a two-part process. For example, a patient who doesn’t qualify for a gastric bypass procedure may be able to lose enough weight with a sleeve operation over a 1-2 year period to be considered a good candidate for a duodenal switch procedure.

Offering Less-Invasive Surgical Options

Oftentimes, the best sleeve surgeon in Orange County for patients preparing for this type of weight loss surgery is one who is experienced with less-invasive surgical techniques that can reduce risks and shorten recovery times. Performed under general anesthesia, today’s sleeve procedures typically involve small incisions made in the abdomen. A special tool with a light and camera attached (laparoscope) is used to allow the surgeon to remove about three-quarters of the stomach. The “new stomach” is created in the shape of a thin tube, referred to as a sleeve.

Because the newly created sleeve spans the normal distance between the esophagus and small intestine, there is no need to make additional alterations to the digestive system. The structure that controls the release of food to the small intestine (pyloric valve) will continue to function normally. Patients typically lose about half of their extra weight with sleeve surgery.

The best sleeve surgeon in Orange County is also one who will take the time to answer your questions and explore what’s involved with sleeve surgery before you make any final decisions. When proper precautions are taken, serious complications associated with gastric sleeve are rare. Patient-focused surgeons also tend to offer advice on how to adjust to life after weight loss surgery. For instance, exploring forms of exercise you find enjoyable can make it easier to remain active enough to help maintain results.