Gastric sleeve surgery is a weight loss procedure that can offer significant benefits for individuals struggling with obesity. However, not everyone is a suitable candidate for gastric sleeve surgery. In this article, we will explore the key factors that determine whether you are a potential candidate for gastric sleeve surgery.

What is the Gastric Sleeve Procedure? 

The gastric sleeve is a bariatric operation that removes a large portion of the stomach to limit the patient's food intake, thus resulting in weight loss. The gastric sleeve is a non-reversible procedure, but it can be revised to a gastric bypass if needed. 

During the gastric sleeve, the surgeon will place a tube in the stomach along the inner curve. The tube acts as a guide so the surgeon knows how much of the stomach to remove. The surgeon will then staple the stomach from the lower edge to the upper edge, allowing the stomach's outer part to be removed leaving a tubular, banana-shaped stomach that is 70 to 80% smaller than its original size. Since the new stomach has a smaller volume, patients will feel full faster from smaller portions of food, ultimately leading to weight loss. 

Additionally, science points to an overall reduction in hunger due to a decrease in ghrelin. Ghrelin is the hunger hormone produced in the stomach. Since a significant portion of the stomach is removed, a reduction in ghrelin production becomes evident. 

The gastric sleeve surgery takes about 30 minutes to perform, as opposed to the gastric bypass and duodenal switch, which take upwards of one hour to complete. Patients can expect to stay in the hospital about 24 hours after their bariatric procedure, yet some bariatric surgeons are sending their patients home the same day as their procedure. 

Are you a Candidate for Gastric Sleeve Surgery? Factors to Consider

1. Body Mass Index

Your BMI is a crucial factor in determining if you are a candidate for gastric sleeve surgery. Generally, individuals with a BMI of 35 or higher with obesity-related health conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure may qualify for the procedure. Your healthcare provider can help you assess your BMI and determine if you meet the necessary criteria.

2. Previous Weight Loss Efforts

Gastric sleeve surgery is typically considered for individuals who have made significant efforts to lose weight through conventional methods but have been unsuccessful. If you have tried dieting, exercise, and other weight loss interventions without achieving sustainable results, gastric sleeve surgery may be a viable option.

3. Overall Health and Medical History

 Your overall health and medical history play a vital role in determining candidacy. Certain medical conditions or medications may impact your eligibility for gastric sleeve surgery. It's important to disclose all relevant information to your healthcare provider, who will evaluate your health status and assess the potential risks and benefits.

4. Commitment to Lifestyle Changes

Gastric sleeve surgery requires a lifelong commitment to adopting healthy lifestyle habits. This includes following a modified diet, engaging in regular physical activity, attending follow-up appointments, and adhering to post-operative guidelines. Demonstrating a willingness to make these necessary lifestyle changes is an essential consideration for determining if you are a candidate for gastric sleeve surgery.

5. Psychological Evaluation 

The emotional and psychological aspects of weight loss surgery are also taken into account. A psychological evaluation may be conducted to assess your readiness for the procedure and determine if you have realistic expectations and a support system in place.

6. Understanding the Risks and Benefits

Being aware of the potential risks and benefits associated with gastric sleeve surgery is crucial. It's important to have a clear understanding of the potential outcomes, including weight loss, improvement in obesity-related health conditions, and potential complications. This knowledge allows you to make an informed decision about whether the procedure aligns with your goals and expectations.

In conclusion, several factors determine whether you are a potential candidate for gastric sleeve surgery, including your BMI, previous weight loss efforts, overall health, commitment to lifestyle changes, psychological readiness, and understanding of the risks and benefits. Consulting with a qualified healthcare professional specializing in bariatric surgery is essential to determine if gastric sleeve surgery is the right option for you