5 Things I Didn’t Know Before My Gastric Sleeve
If you’ve been struggling with excess weight for years and have not succeeded with traditional weight loss methods, gastric sleeve surgery can be a life-changing option that offers hope and a path to a healthier, happier life. If you are considering gastric sleeve surgery, know that you are not alone, and there are compassionate and experienced medical professionals who can help you on your journey.
What is Gastric Sleeve Surgery?
Gastric sleeve surgery is a medical operation that reduces the size of the stomach by removing a part of it. This helps people lose weight because they feel full quicker when they eat. Another name for this surgery is the sleeve gastrectomy. Let’s talk about the good and bad things about this type of surgery.
Gastric sleeve surgery, also known as sleeve gastrectomy, is a surgical procedure that involves removing a portion of the stomach, resulting in a smaller stomach size. The procedure is intended to help patients lose weight by restricting the amount of food they consume, as the smaller stomach size makes them feel fuller faster.
Benefits of Gastric Sleeve Surgery
- Significant Weight Loss: Gastric sleeve surgery has been shown to help patients achieve significant weight loss. Studies have found that patients can lose up to 60% of their excess weight within the first two years after surgery.
- Improvement in Obesity-Related Health Issues: Many patients who undergo gastric sleeve surgery see an improvement in obesity-related health issues such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and sleep apnea.
- Improved Quality of Life: Many patients report an improved quality of life following gastric sleeve surgery, as they can engage in physical activities that were previously difficult or impossible.
- Reduced Risk of Mortality: Obesity is a significant risk factor for mortality. Gastric sleeve surgery has been shown to reduce the risk of mortality in patients with obesity.
Cons of Gastric Sleeve Surgery
- Complications: Like any surgery, gastric sleeve surgery carries the risk of complications. These can include bleeding, infection, and blood clots.
- Dietary Restrictions: Patients undergoing gastric sleeve surgery must adhere to strict dietary restrictions to achieve weight loss and maintain their health.
- Irreversible Procedure: Gastric sleeve surgery is an irreversible procedure. Patients who undergo the surgery must understand that they will have a smaller stomach size for the rest of their lives.
- Cost: Gastric sleeve surgery can be expensive; not all insurance plans cover the procedure.
When I decided to have the Gastric Sleeve, I made sure to keep all my appointments with the Doctor, Therapist,Nutritionist and Exercise Physiologist. I wanted to make sure I was prepared for what was to come after the surgery. I attended nutritional classes and attended the Gastric Sleeve Pre-Surgical Diet Class. I got this Gastric Sleeve Cookbook.
I asked questions of the surgeon, other patients who had the surgery, and staff at the weight loss center I was going thru. However prepared I was before my surgery, I wasn’t ready for some things that followed. Keep reading to find out what I learned “AFTER” my Gastric Sleeve. Make sure to also check out Why I had the Gastric Sleeve.
Top 5 things I Found out After My Gastric Sleeve
- Don’t judge your weight loss by the scale, pay attention to how your clothes fit.
- Eating Protein all the time will get boring but there are many creative options.
- Trust other people when they say you look good and they can tell you have lost weight. They see you differently than you see yourself. Take their compliments
- Just because you don’t see it in the mirror doesn’t mean you aren’t losing. Comparing your reflection to old pictures helps you see how far you have really come.
- You don’t lose weight evenly over your whole body. My hour glass (even though it was a big one) shape has turned into a very lopsided pear. Over time your shape will even out.
It has only been 9 weeks since my surgery but I am slowly coming to an understanding of the changes that are taking place in my body. I have also found that I am becoming more mentally aware of the changes to my body and know that over time everything will work together to create a better me.
Have you had a Gastric Sleeve or other Bariatric Surgery? Share your tips and things you have learned.
For more information check out Why I had the Gastric Sleeve!
If you want to read more information about gastric sleeve I recommend these two books, The Sleeved Life: A Patient-to-Patient Guide on Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy Weight Loss Surgery and Ultimate Gastric Sleeve Success: A Practical Patient Guide To Help Maximize Your Weight Loss Results.
If you’re considering getting gastric sleeve surgery, being well-informed and prepared is important.
Here are some tips to keep in mind when getting gastric sleeve surgery:
Find a qualified and experienced surgeon
The success of your gastric sleeve surgery largely depends on the skill and experience of your surgeon. It’s important to find a qualified and experienced surgeon with a good track record of successful surgeries. Look for a board-certified surgeon with experience in performing gastric sleeve surgeries. Do your research and read reviews from previous patients.
Prepare for the surgery
Before the surgery, you’ll need to prepare both physically and mentally. You’ll need to follow a strict preoperative diet plan to reduce the size of your liver, which can make the surgery safer and easier. This diet plan typically involves a high-protein, low-carbohydrate diet. You’ll also need to quit smoking and stop taking certain medications that can increase the risk of bleeding during the surgery.
Follow the postoperative diet plan
After the surgery, you’ll need to follow a strict diet plan to ensure that your stomach heals properly and to prevent complications. Your diet will start with clear liquids and gradually progress to soft foods and solid foods. It’s important to follow the diet plan as your surgeon or dietitian prescribes to avoid complications and promote weight loss.
Stay physically active
Physical activity is important after gastric sleeve surgery to promote weight loss, improve overall health, and prevent complications such as blood clots. You’ll need to start with light exercise, such as walking and gradually increase the intensity and duration of your workouts as you recover. Your surgeon or physical therapist can help you develop a safe and effective exercise plan.
Attend follow-up appointments
Attending all your follow-up appointments with your surgeon and dietitian is important to monitor your progress and adjust your diet and exercise plan if necessary. Your surgeon will also monitor you for complications like infection, bleeding, or blood clots. Regular follow-up appointments can ensure that your gastric sleeve surgery is successful and that you achieve your weight loss goals.
Join a support group
Joining a support group can be helpful after gastric sleeve surgery. Support groups provide a safe and supportive environment where you can share your experiences and learn from others who have gone through the same process. Support groups can also provide motivation and accountability, which can help you achieve your weight loss goals.
It’s vital to be well-informed and prepared before undergoing surgery. You can increase your chances of a successful surgery and achieve your weight loss goals.
Prepare Meals That You Will Enjoy After Your Gastric Sleeve Surgery
Bariatric Air Fryer Cookbook: 1900-Days of Easy, Tasty & Quick Low-Carb Fried Recipes
Gastric Sleeve: 3 in 1 Box Set
Gastric Sleeve Bariatric Cookbook: Enjoy Your New Life Without The Fear of Regaining Weight
Gastric Sleeve Bariatric Cookbook: Keep the Weight Off After Surgery with Easy and Tasty Recipes
Cook, Baker, Phototaker, Fitness Mover and Shaker, Cupcake Tester, Deal Maker, Adventurous Undertaker, Do Good “Deeder”, Teacher, Mom, Wife, Patriot for Life & Giver of Good Advice – RealAdviceGal