Do you suffer from obesity and other weight-related illnesses? Do you wish you could lose weight but struggle to achieve the goals you set for yourself no matter how much you diet or exercise? Losing weight in the long-term can be difficult, if not almost impossible, for many people.
That’s why many individuals consider bariatric surgery an effective solution to help them achieve their goal weight. Losing weight can not only improve your health but also significantly affect your emotional and mental well-being and grow your confidence. In short, it can be a lifesaver!
There are a few different weight loss surgeries available, provided by qualified bariatric surgeons. These include the gastric sleeve, the gastric bypass and SADI-S procedures. Each surgery has its own set of benefits and considerations, making the decision of choosing the right one an importantl one.
Let’s explore the differences between these surgeries to help you determine which option may be best suited for you.
Gastric Sleeve
Gastric sleeve surgery, also known as sleeve gastrectomy, involves the removal of a large section of the stomach, leaving behind a smaller banana-shaped sleeve. This surgery restricts the amount of food the stomach can hold, leading to a feeling of fullness with smaller food portions. Gastric sleeve is a popular choice among individuals seeking weight loss surgery due to its effectiveness and lower risk of complications compared to other procedures and less lifestyle implications.
Pros of Gastric Sleeve:
- With this surgery, you will experience significant weight loss results — up to about 29.8% total body weight loss ( BSR 2023 one-year outcome).
- You will experience reduced hunger and appetite due to changes to the “hunger hormone” ghrelin.
- There is a lowered risk of malnutrition compared to the gastric bypass procedure.
Cons of Gastric Sleeve:
- This is a non-reversible procedure so individuals need to be sure that they want this surgery.
- There is potential for reflux or heartburn post-surgery, which can be uncomfortable and tough to manage.
- This procedure can lead to complications, such as leaks or strictures in the stomach.
Gastric Bypass
The gastric bypass, also known as the Single anastomosis gastric bypass or slightly different is the Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, involves creating a smaller stomach pouch and rerouting the intestines to bypass a portion of the digestive system. This surgery combines restrictive and hypo-absorptive techniques to help patients lose weight by limiting the amount of food intake and reducing calorie absorption from food.
Pros of Gastric Bypass:
- Individuals can experience rapid weight loss in the first year post-surgery, on average as much as 32.5% of their total body weight. (BSR 2023 one-year outcome)
- You can experience a resolution of obesity-related comorbidities like type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure, which is a life-changing transformation for quality of life.
- Gastric bypass patients can experience long-term success in maintaining weight loss.
Cons of Gastric Bypass:
- This surgery can have a higher risk of nutritional deficiencies, such as thiamine, folic acid, vitamin B12 and vitamins A, D and K.
- Patients can experience dumping syndrome, which is the rapid emptying of stomach contents into the intestines.
- Gastric bypass can cause potential complications like ulcers or hernias.
- Some endoscopic procedures to remove gallstones can be more complex
Loop duodenal switch – sleeve gastrectomy ( SADI-S)
SADI-S involves a gastric sleeve which reduces the portion sizes and by removing a large portion of the stomach the hunger hormone is reduced. A hypo-absorbtive intestinal bypass is performed as well, By combining a restrictive and hypo-absorptive procedure patients have usually a better long term weight loss compared to restrictive operations alone. This procedure may be considered in high BMI patients.
Pros of SADI-S:
- Very effective to reduce high blood pressure, diabetes type 2 or high cholesterol in the long term which improves quality of life. In the first year up to 42% of total body weight can be lost (Sanchez-Pernaute A. Obes Surg 2022)
- Very low risk of peptic ulcers compared to a gastric bypass.
- This procedure also results in minimal dumping similar to a gastric sleeve compared to bypass surgery.
Cons of SADI-S:
- Individuals can experience loose bowel motions if their diet is too fatty.
- After a SADI-S patients need good long term follow up and to take their multivitamins regularly otherwise micronutrient and vitamin deficiencies can develop.
- After this procedure an endoscopy to remove dislodged gallstones is not possible.
Choosing the Best Option for You
When deciding on the most suitable weight loss surgery for you, it is essential to consider various factors such as your weight loss goals, medical history, lifestyle and potential risks and benefits associated with each procedure taking into account your personal situation and medications.
Consulting with a bariatric surgeon and discussing your options in detail can help you make an informed decision according to your specific needs. Your surgeon will be able to recommend a weight loss surgery and recovery plan that is best for you and that will provide you with the best outcomes.
Gastric sleeve, gastric bypass and SADI-S surgeries are all effective weight loss procedure options that have helped countless individuals achieve significant weight loss and improve their health.
Each surgery offers unique benefits and considerations – the best choice for you will depend on a thorough evaluation of your individual circumstances.
Remember to seek guidance from your bariatric surgeon, healthcare team and support networks to embark successfully on your weight loss journey.
Do you have questions about any of these weight-loss surgeries? Contact us.