Obesity is a serious problem that brings along many health issues in today’s world. Gastric Sleeve is a popular surgical method aimed at effectively resolving this problem. It is also known colloquially as stomach reduction surgery.
What is Sleeve Gastrectomy?
Sleeve gastrectomy is a surgical procedure used in the treatment of obesity. During this procedure, the stomach is reshaped into a small tube-like structure. This reduces the volume of the stomach, leading to decreased food intake and weight loss. Sleeve gastrectomy stands out as an effective method in combating obesity, providing significant results.
Sleeve Gastrectomy Procedure
Sleeve gastrectomy surgery is typically performed using the laparoscopic surgical method. This modern surgical technique allows for faster patient recovery.
Steps of Sleeve Gastrectomy Surgery
The main steps of sleeve gastrectomy surgery include:
- Patient Preparation: Before the surgery, patients typically begin a specific diet program and their health condition is evaluated.
- Anesthesia: The patient is placed under general anesthesia to become unconscious and not feel any pain.
- Laparoscopic Procedure: A small incision is made, and a camera and surgical instruments are directed into the stomach. This allows the surgeon to control the procedure with images on a screen.
- Stomach Reduction Procedure: The stomach is reshaped into a tube-like structure by removing a large portion of it.
- Stitching and Closure: After the stomach is stitched into a tube, the surgical area is closed, and the healing process begins.
Side Effects of Sleeve Gastrectomy Surgery
Stomach reduction surgery can be an effective method in combating obesity; however, like any surgical intervention, sleeve gastrectomy also has its side effects. These side effects can vary from person to person and typically manifest in the post-operative period.
The potential side effects of sleeve gastrectomy surgery include:
- Rapid weight loss
- Nutritional issues
- Reflux problems
- Stomach irritation
- Small intestine problems
- Vitamin and mineral deficiencies
- Formation of gallstones
- Hair loss
- Skin sagging
- Post-operative pain
Recovery Time for Gastric Sleeve Surgery
The recovery process of sleeve gastrectomy surgery generally varies based on individual health conditions and the type of surgery. However, it typically consists of the following stages:
- Hospital Recovery Period:
- After the surgery, patients may be kept under observation in the hospital for a few days.
- Transition to liquid intake is initiated in the first few days, and the general health of patients is monitored.
- Dietary Changes:
- During the initial weeks, only liquid foods are consumed, followed by a transition to pureed and soft foods.
- These dietary changes support weight loss due to the reduction in stomach volume.
- Doctor Check-ups:
- Regular doctor check-ups are crucial throughout the recovery process.
- The doctor evaluates the patient’s health condition and may make adjustments to the diet or medication if necessary.
- Physical Activity:
- Light exercises can support the recovery process.
- However, approval from the doctor should be obtained before starting intense exercises.
- Slow and Careful Eating:
- It is important to consume meals slowly and chew them thoroughly.
- Attention should be paid to nutrition to reduce the risk of overeating.
- Vitamin and Mineral Supplements:
- Supplements recommended by the doctor should be used to prevent vitamin and mineral deficiencies during the post-operative period.
- Long-Term Changes:
- The surgery supports not only weight loss but also the transition to a healthy lifestyle.
- Patients can sustain the benefits of the surgery through regular check-ups and healthy eating habits in the long term.
The recovery process of sleeve gastrectomy surgery is personal and may vary for each individual. It is important for patients to follow the guidelines provided by their doctors and attend regular doctor check-ups.
Gastric Sleeve Diet
Sleeve gastrectomy surgery can be an effective option for individuals looking to accelerate weight loss and combat obesity. However, for sustained success post-surgery and transitioning to a healthy lifestyle, an appropriate diet program is crucial.
1. Initial Weeks Post-Surgery: Liquid Diet
Following sleeve gastrectomy surgery, typically, the first few days involve consuming liquids. During this period, water, saline solution, broth, freshly squeezed fruit juices, and protein shakes to increase protein intake may be recommended. A liquid diet helps soothe the stomach and aids in recovery.
2. Gradual Transition to Solid Foods: Pureed and Soft Foods
Within a few weeks post-surgery, patients can gradually transition to pureed and soft foods. Nutritious foods such as soups, pureed vegetables, yogurt, and low-fat cheese are preferred during this phase. It’s important to thoroughly chew the foods and consume them in small portions.
3. Diverse Protein Sources: Fish, Chicken, Yogurt
Protein plays a significant role in the sleeve gastrectomy diet. Protein-rich foods like fish, chicken, eggs, and low-fat yogurt can help preserve muscle mass in the body. Protein also induces a feeling of fullness, reducing the tendency to overeat.
4. Vegetables and Fruits: Sources of Fiber and Vitamins
In the sleeve gastrectomy diet, vegetables and fruits are crucial components providing vitamins and fiber. However, post-surgery, vegetables and fruits should be well-cooked and pureed before consumption. Fiber supports digestive system health and promotes a feeling of fullness.
What to Consider in the Sleeve Gastrectomy Diet?
- After sleeve gastrectomy surgery, it is important to pay attention to fluid intake. Water should be consumed in small sips at regular intervals throughout the day. Alcohol and carbonated beverages should be avoided. By monitoring fluid intake, the risk of dehydration is minimized.
- Meal times should be consistent, and no meals should be skipped.
- Portion control is crucial. Adopting the principle of eating small, frequent meals is advisable.
- Following sleeve gastrectomy surgery, regular follow-ups with a dietitian are important. A dietitian can create a personalized diet plan based on the individual’s health condition and may recommend vitamin and mineral supplements if necessary.
Gastric Sleeve Revision
While stomach reduction surgery can be an effective method in combating obesity, sometimes the results of the initial surgery may not meet expectations or unexpected complications may arise. In such cases, sleeve gastrectomy revision can offer a more suitable solution tailored to the patient’s health and needs.
Sleeve gastrectomy revision is a surgical procedure performed to correct or improve the results of a previous sleeve gastrectomy surgery. This surgery may involve changes to the structure of the stomach and aims to guide the patient’s weight loss process.
Cost of Sleeve Gastrectomy Surgery
Although sleeve gastrectomy surgery is an effective method in combating obesity, it is also evaluated by many individuals based on its cost. The cost of sleeve gastrectomy surgery varies depending on several factors, including the patient’s treatment plan, the location where the surgery is performed, and the policies of the healthcare provider. The cost of surgery in England typically ranges from £8,000 to £15,000. Conversely, in Turkey, surgery costs are notably more affordable, ranging from £4,000 to £8,000.
Gastric Sleeve in Turkey
Turkey has increasingly become a popular destination for health tourism. The costs of sleeve gastrectomy surgery in Turkey are generally more economical compared to Western countries. This situation attracts many individuals who seek access to quality healthcare services at affordable costs. The cost of sleeve gastrectomy surgery in Turkey varies depending on the selected hospital, doctor, and additional services.
Frequently Asked Questions
Potential complications may include nutritional issues, vitamin deficiencies, and gastroesophageal reflux.
Yes, but it’s important for individuals to maintain a healthy lifestyle and adhere to post-operative diet and lifestyle changes.
The effects of gastric sleeve surgery are typically permanent.
Due to the reduced stomach capacity, individuals tend to eat less and experience weight loss.
The risk-to-benefit ratio varies from person to person. Seeking expert advice is important.
The cost of gastric sleeve surgery in Turkey is generally lower compared to other countries.
Gastric sleeve surgery is more affordable in Turkey due to generally lower surgical costs and a competitive healthcare sector.
