Top 5 Gastric Sleeve FAQ

If you are considering gastric sleeve surgery (also known as a sleeve gastrectomy) to help you lose weight there are certain things that you should first consider. As with any operation, it is incredibly important that you find an experienced surgeon that is well versed in the exact procedure that you are going to have. While many general surgeons are skilled at a variety of different operations, it is really important that for bariatric surgery you choose a surgeon that specializes in weight loss surgery in particular.

Many patients that are considering gastric sleeve for bariatric surgery have a lot of the same questions. Here are 5 of the most frequently asked questions that you should discuss with your surgeon prior to your operation.

1. What are the benefits of gastric sleeve?

During a sleeve gastrectomy a portion of your stomach is going to be physically removed, leaving a thing banana shaped stomach in its place. This provides many benefits, such as reduced levels of hunger, but also comes with many risks. Ask your surgeon to explain both to you prior to embarking on this type of weight loss journey.

2. Is there a special diet to follow after the gastric sleeve operation?

The answer to this is yes! The diet after gastric sleeve is very important, and it is crucial that you have a clear understanding of it before going in for the operation. Immediately following the procedure you will be put on a clear liquid diet, and will gradually be able to move to pureed food and then eventually to solid food.

3. Will I lose weight after the surgery?

Yes, you are going to lose weight, as long as you follow all of the directions that your surgeon lays out for you. Most patients lose about 50%-70% of their body weight their first year following the surgery.

4. What does this cost?

That answer really depends on your personal situation and health insurance coverage. Most insurance carriers will cover this operation if they feel it is necessary to the patient’s health, which it often is. If you are paying out of pocket, depending on the state and individual practice the price will range from $7,000 to $20,000.

5. Are there risks involved?

Yes, there are—and there are also benefits. Before setting out to pursue any type of bariatric surgery it is very important that you speak with your surgeon and way the risks and benefits against each other.