Sleeve Gastrectomy
Being severely overweight, or obese, is a disease that occurs due to environmental and genetic factors. Unfortunately, exercise and diet alone may not be sufficient in combating obesity. The surgeons at Piedmont General Surgery Associates perform sleeve gastrectomy in Rock Hill, SC, as a means to achieve your weight loss goals so you can take back your health.
What is Sleeve Gastrectomy?
Also known as gastric sleeve surgery, this procedure removes 80% to 85% of the stomach, leaving behind a tube-shaped stomach that restricts the amount of food you can consume. Our surgeons perform this surgery laparoscopically meaning that it is a minimally invasive. By making small incisions in the upper abdomen, a long tube with a video camera on the end called a laparoscope is inserted. This enables your surgeon to see the inside of your body projected on a screen. From there, specialized instruments are used to make precise movements while performing your surgery.
Malabsorption is not a component of sleeve gastrectomy, meaning your surgeon does not bypass any portion of your digestive system. The change to the size of your stomach may stimulate hormonal changes that curb the feeling of hunger within your stomach. These same hormonal changes also help relieve conditions associated with being overweight which are some of the leading causes of preventable, premature death in the United States. Obesity-related conditions include:
- Heart disease
- Stroke
- Type 2 diabetes
- Certain types of cancer
Who is Eligible for Sleeve Gastrectomy?
Not everyone is eligible for sleeve gastrectomy. This procedure may be recommended for those who:
- Are obese, meaning they have a BMI of 35 to 39.9 as well as have a chronic health problem such as type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure.
- Are considered to be severely obese, with a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher.
Additionally, sleeve gastrectomy is generally used to conduct weight loss surgery in a series of stages instead of all at once. Individuals who may benefit the most from this type of staged approach include:
- People with an extremely high BMI
- Those who are placed at risk by being under general anesthesia for a prolonged period
- Those who have significant heart or lung problems
Free Informational Seminar
Weight loss surgery makes it possible for you to attain a healthy weight, so you are able to live a long and full life. We take referrals from primary and other physicians. Give us a call at 803-580-2178 to schedule an appointment or to learn when the next informational seminar is taking place.