Have you been trying to lose weight for a long time and have had no results? Maybe you’re dealing with illnesses associated with weight gain, and your doctor has told you weight loss is essential to your health. What should you do if you’re still unable to lose weight despite all this?
In certain cases, a gastric sleeve can be a helpful treatment option for those who must lose weight for their well-being and can’t seem to do so. Our practice — Bergen Bariatric and Surgical Solutions P.C. — offers this treatment for those who need it, along with support and helpful tips for managing pre- and post-surgery.
Our provider, Dr. Mikhail A. Botvinov, has performed this surgery many times and uses state-of-the-art treatment involving laparoscopic techniques to ensure you can get the desired results.
The gastric sleeve is a procedure that has increased in popularity over the last decade because of its benefits. The treatment has a lower potential for side effects than other weight loss surgeries, and it has a favorable five-year success rate, according to a 2017 study. Patients who undergo it have also been shown to be satisfied with the results.
With the laparoscopic technique, Dr. Botvinov makes very small incisions to remove about 80% of your stomach. The part left behind is much smaller, about the size of a banana. During surgery, the portion of your stomach where appetite-stimulating hormones are released is also removed.
This allows you to feel fuller longer, to fill up on less, and to lose more weight because of these changes. The surgery itself doesn’t remove all your excess weight, but it makes it much easier for you to lose weight over time through a decreased desire to eat.
While this procedure is popular, it is, of course, only for some. The best candidates are those with a BMI over 40 and who have found it difficult to lose weight through traditional means, such as a change in diet, exercise, and therapy.
If you have a BMI of 35 or more and are experiencing health-related concerns because of your weight, consider the gastric sleeve. These weight-related health issues include:
Dr. Botvinov will only perform gastric sleeve surgery on patients 18 or older. It’s also important that you’re aware of the possible side effects associated with the procedure and that you’ll commit to your health and wellness plan post-surgery.
If you’re still unsure about how the surgery works or your expectations for the gastric sleeve seem fuzzy, discussing the procedure with Dr. Botvinov beforehand is important. Most importantly, the surgery is best used as a practical solution for weight loss that focuses on supporting your overall health.
Depending on your needs and medical history, the gastric sleeve might be helpful for your weight loss journey. But we always recommend discussing any surgery with Dr. Botvinov first to determine if the option is right for you.
To make an appointment at our office in Woodward, New Jersey, visit us online, or call us today. We’re ready to help!
