What to chose Sleeve or Bypass procedure?

Gastric bypass and Sleeve Gastrectomy are two procedures that are part of bariatric surgery, which is the set of surgical procedures offered to treat obesity. Each of these two operations is based on different principles and procedures, but both can produce surprising results. Here’s what you need to know about these obesity surgeries, and how the choice is made when it comes to taking action.

Bypass and sleeve, what are the differences?

Gastric sleeve surgery primarily focuses on reducing stomach size, while gastric bypass involves both stomach size reduction and rerouting of the digestive system. In terms of nutrient absorption, gastric bypass has a more significant impact and may result in nutritional deficiencies, unlike sleeve surgery. Importantly, gastric sleeve surgery is typically irreversible, representing a permanent change in the digestive system, whereas gastric bypass can sometimes be reversible. Both procedures lead to substantial weight loss, although the amount varies based on individual factors. Additionally, the recovery time differs between the two surgeries, with gastric sleeve surgery generally having a shorter recovery period compared to gastric bypass.

Bypass and sleeve, what are the similarities?

Gastric sleeve surgery, also known as sleeve gastrectomy surgery, and gastric bypass surgery are both bariatric procedures aimed at promoting weight loss and improving overall health. Despite their differences, these procedures share several key similarities that can guide individuals in choosing the most suitable option for their needs. One of the fundamental similarities between the two procedures is their effectiveness in promoting substantial weight loss. Both gastric sleeve and bypass surgery facilitate weight loss by restricting the amount of food intake and altering the way the body absorbs nutrients. Patients undergoing these procedures often experience significant and sustained weight loss, leading to improved health outcomes and enhanced quality of life.Another commonality lies in their impact on obesity-related conditions. Both procedures have been shown to effectively manage various obesity-related health issues, including diabetes, hypertension, and sleep apnea. By achieving and maintaining a healthier weight, individuals often experience a reduction in the severity of these conditions, leading to a better overall health status. Moreover, both gastric sleeve and bypass surgery require a commitment to post-surgery lifestyle changes. Patients must adhere to a specific post-surgery diet to ensure optimal results and minimize complications.

What are the course and objectives of the two procedures?

It is useful to know the procedures of the sleeve and the bypass before starting the procedure. Both procedures will make significant changes to the anatomy of your digestive system, but the goal in both cases will be to reduce the amount of food eaten during meals.Here are the principles of the two procedures and the changes your body will undergo:

The principle of a gastric bypass: In a gastric bypass, the stomach is bypassed by connecting a loop of the small intestine to the upper part of the stomach. After the operation, only a small part of the stomach is used (a small pouch). The aim of this manoeuvre is to limit the amount of food absorbed during the meal, which in the long term can lead to a significant weight loss. On average, gastric bypass patients lose between 50 to 80 percent of their excess body weight within 12 to 18 months. It is often recommended for individuals with a Body Mass Index (BMI) over 45, especially those who are severely obese.

The principle of a sleeve gastrectomy: for this operation, the surgeon will cut a large part of the stomach. This organ will lose 2/3 of its volume, and will be shaped like a tube after the operation. As with the bypass, the aim is to reduce considerably the amount of food taken during meals. However, unlike bypass surgery, sleeve surgery is an irreversible operation. Gastric sleeve patients typically lose between 60 and 70 percent of their excess body weight within 12 to 18 months. It is considered a viable option for people with lower BMIs or those who prefer a less invasive surgery compared to gastric bypass.

 

How do I prepare for bariatric surgery?

Before you can have a bypass or sleeve procedure, you will need to do your best to lose as much weight as possible using more conventional methods. This means that you will need to do some dieting and exercise, if possible, get as close as possible to a more suitable weight. You will also need to take time to think and prepare yourself mentally, as these are major operations and your body will undergo major changes especially in the case of a sleeve, which is an irreversible operation. As with any other procedure, a full medical file will need to be prepared, including a medical check-up, blood tests and various other tests. The diagnosis will have to show that you do not suffer from any pathologies that could contraindicate the operation.

What are the after-effects of bariatric surgery?

It is important to know that there are a few annoying side effects that can be expected after bariatric surgery. Among the most common complications: some difficulty in digesting food, nausea, loss of appetite, difficulty in absorbing large quantities of food… . In some cases, you will need to take supplements to make up for the lack of certain minerals and vitamins necessary for your health. When you lose a lot of weight, you will have to be monitored by a team of specialists, who will make sure that your body is responding well to the weight loss and that you are not suffering from any deficiencies. Following the operation, you will also need to ban certain foods from your diet: you will need to avoid all alcoholic drinks or consume them in very small quantities (bariatric surgery patients can become intoxicated quicker than normal people). You should also avoid pastries and sweets, and foods that are too fatty. In general, you will need to be very careful with your new diet, which is why it is useful to seek advice from a qualified nutritionist after the operation.

Does the decision belong to your surgeon?

In the end, it will be up to your surgeon to decide which procedure is best for you between a sleeve and a bypass. During the preliminary consultations, the specialist will evaluate various factors that will help him/her in the choice of the procedure: your general state of health, the history of your previous operations, your age, your eating habits, the number of kilos to be eliminated, etc. A detailed diagnosis will therefore be made, and it is on the basis of your examinations that the decision regarding the procedure will be made. The most important thing to remember before requesting bariatric surgery is to choose the surgeon who will perform the operation and the clinic. A sleeve or a bypass are both complex procedures that require a great deal of expertise to ensure a satisfactory result. You will also need to take the time to weigh up the pros and cons, and to decide whether this type of operation is right for you.