Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy: Weight Loss Surgery Option

Sleeve Gastrectomy is also known as Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy (VSG) or Greater Curvature Gastrectomy or Parietal Gastrectomy or Longitudinal Gastrectomy.  It is an irreversible procedure unlike lap band. The left side of the stomach is surgically removed, the open edges are then attached together to form a sleeve or tube with a banana shape. The size of the stomach is permanently reduced. The process is performed laparoscopically.

Since this operation does not involve any "rerouting" or reconnecting of the intestines, it is a simpler operation than the gastric bypass or the duodenal switch. Unlike the Lap-Band procedure, the sleeve gastrectomy does not require the implantation of an artificial device inside the abdomen. Technically it appears to be easier and faster laparoscopic procedure than Roux-en Y gastric bypass or other malabsorptive
procedures.
The Sleeve Gastrectomy works through two mechanisms. Firstly, makes the stomach smaller; as a result we will full after eating smaller meals. In addition to this the ‘fundus’ of the stomach is removed.It is this area that secretes ghrelin hormone that makes us hungry. So, the sleeve gastrectomy helps us to feel less hungry through a hormonal mechanism.
In obese people with BMI of 60 or more Sleeve Gastrectomy may be the first part of a two stage operation. Certain patients have a body shape, like ones who carry their weight in the belly area that makes their surgery more technically difficult. For such people a multi-step operation like gastric bypass or duodenal switch is broken down into simpler two stage operation. In the first stage, a sleeve gastrectomy is performed. This allows losing 80 to 100 pounds or more, which makes the second part of the operation substantially safer.

The second stage of this two stage operation is usually performed 8 to 12 months after the first. The "sleeve" stomach is converted into a formal gastric bypass or duodenal switch. This permits additional weight loss and provides a much more permanent result than sleeve gastrectomy alone. Both the stages of the surgery can be performed laparoscopically, giving the advantage of shorter recovery, shorter incisions, and fewer incision-related problems and less pain.

From the above discussion the advantages of the sleeve gastrectomy is evident. Firstly it does not require disconnecting or reconnecting the intestines. Secondly, it is technically simpler operation than the duodenal switch or gastric bypass. Lastly, it may be used as the first stage of a 2-stage operation.

Talking about  the disadvantages, like any surgical operation, sleeve gastrectomy has possibility of complications like leakage, dilation of the sleeve and other usual complications associated with bariatric surgery. Patients are strictly forbidden from smoking after the surgery as smoking would cause serious complications.

For patients that are obese but not extremely obese, sleeve gastrectomy is a suitable operation with minimum risks. Some surgeons even prefer it over gastric banding because it eliminates the need of having to insert a foreign body. The sleeve gastrectomy currently is acceptable weight loss surgery option for obese patients as a single procedure.

Cost of Lap Band Surgery

It’s always better to have extensive knowledge forehand before going or opting for surgery. Who is my doctor? Who are the doctor’s team? What are the facilities provided in the hospital? Is the nursing reputable? Are there other cost effective solutions?

The last question really matters when you are paying out of your pocket and are not covered by insurance. Weight Loss Surgery was earlier not covered widely by insurance. So check out the details of your insurance policy before you take a decision.

Lap band surgery is the least invasive of all kinds of bariatric surgery, requiring only an overnight stay in the hospital. In most cases, patients are back on their feet and back to normal activity within a week. If you are obese and think lap band would be the right option for you cost should be an obstacle. New lap band surgery clinics are opening regularly making the price more competitive. You can also opt for lap band surgery in Monterrey the safest city Mexico under world renowned surgeons and US certified hospitals. They are safe and affordable.

Before going for a surgery, you must find out whether you are a candidate for lap banding and for this, consult your physician. Check your Body Mass Index and if you are 100 pounds over normal weight, you may be a candidate for lap band surgery.

The cost of a lap band procedure vary from state to state and even from city to city and it is difficult to predict what your actual cost will be. There isn’t an established cost or price for lap band surgery. The variations also depend on the type of health plan you have, the doctor you choose and on the individual’s specific condition. It is extremely difficult to find out all related costs and consider all financial issues before the surgery takes place.

The procedure involves facility in the hospital, surgeon and anesthesiologist’s fees and staying in the hospital. Generally speaking, the cost of the procedure can be as much as $12,000 to $18,000 in the US. In Mexico the cost is around $7000. Check if you are covered with your health insurance policy.

While discussing the costs, you must inquire about all costs of the lap band surgery from start to finish. Many factors can affect the total price of Lap band surgery including the surgeon you choose, the place where you choose to have it performed, pre-operation tests and the other fees like travel expenses, follow-up appointments, anesthesia fee and any other post-surgery related expenses.  Follow-up care and band adjustments are also an important part of Lap band procedure. Many surgeons include band adjustments within their price quote.

Many things can affect the actual cost of the lap band procedure like where you live, the type of insurance you have, whether doing the procedure locally or you would have to travel outside to get it done. You may have gone through various diagnostic tests before surgery like blood tests, sleep apnea study, x-ray and other tests. Be sure to ask your surgeon about what is included in the cost of the surgery, so you can know what to expect and make the best decision for a successful outcome.

Those that travel abroad find that lap band surgery is very cost effective. Mexico is a nearby country that has a great deal of experience with lap band surgery. The standards and equipments used are also same as in the United States. But the cost of travel and the time needed should taken into account when scheduling the procedure done outside.

Losing excess weight simply makes your life fruitful. But before you go under the process of lap band surgery, it is important to know the cost and what it covers.