The popularity of bariatric surgery as a weapon against obesity and related health complications has skyrocketed lately. Two major bariatric surgeries are the gastric sleeve surgery and the gastric balloon process. Both aim to assist people in shedding extra weight. Still, they certainly aren’t the same regarding how exactly they achieve that loss, their success stories, and their cost, among other things.
If you are considering either of these procedures, it helps to grasp how they differ to decide which one is perfect for you. This article will give you an understanding of the differences between gastric sleeve and gastric balloon.
Gastric Sleeve Surgery
Also known as the vertical sleeve gastrectomy, gastric sleeve surgery is a transformative weight-loss operation. It involves removing about 80% of the stomach and leaving behind a banana-shaped and sized stomach. The process usually happens laparoscopically, with small instruments going in through multiple small openings on the top half of your stomach.
During this operation, the surgeon removes that part of your stomach which generates an appetite-stimulating hormone. As a result, patients start to feel stuffed sooner and eat less because of it. This occurs in a hospital setting, with everything depending on your personal situation and how your surgeon operates. The gastric sleeve has become the best option for bariatric procedures in America and globally. The life changes are massive – you get enhanced life quality plus a big weight loss of around 60-70% within just one year after the surgery.
As with any surgical procedure, gastric sleeve surgery has pros and cons. On the pro side, you’re looking at significant weight dropping and alleviating – even eradicating – some health issues tied to obesity like type 2 diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, etc. Your hospital stay also won’t last as long as other bariatric procedures.
Gastric Balloon Procedure
The gastric balloon process, also referred to as intragastric balloon placement, is a non-invasive method designed for shedding pounds. A silicone balloon filled with saline is inserted into the stomach without any surgical procedures. This process tends to happen under endoscopic guidance – a skinny tube equipped with a camera travels from your mouth to your stomach.
During this operation, your medical practitioner infuses saline into the balloon in your stomach that fills up some room and leaves you feeling satiated earlier – this cuts down on how much food you take in and facilitates weight reduction. The entire procedure typically takes about 20 minutes to an hour—with most patients being fit enough to return home about one or two hours after everything’s over.
The gastric balloon procedure is similar to other surgical weight-loss methods like gastric sleeve surgery. It’s most suited for people with a BMI ranging from 30 to 40 who can’t lose those pounds despite their best dieting and workout efforts. The procedure is also suitable for people who are not good candidates for surgery due to medical conditions or other factors.
The benefits are significant – serious weight loss, reduction or erasure of obesity-impacting conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and hyperlipidemia. Plus, it has a shorter recovery time compared to other procedures. But it comes with a caution label, too — complications like overinflation or acute pancreatitis, ulcers, and stomach wall holes—which might require surgical intervention are potential side-effects.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Between Gastric Sleeve and Gastric Balloon
Choosing between gastric sleeve surgery and gastric balloon operation demands careful consideration. This isn’t some minor life choice; it’s a decision that will affect your health, way of life, and overall happiness for years to come. So you have to be well-informed before deciding what is best for you.
Here’s a deep dive into what you need to consider:
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Body Mass Index (BMI)
Your BMI isn’t just a number – it can be an efficient tool in deciding which weight loss procedure will work best for you. If your BMI is 40 or higher, doctors will likely support the gastric sleeve operation as it suits severe obesity levels. If your BMI is between 30 and 40, they may suggest the gastric balloon procedure instead. It provides a non-surgery solution for individuals who require a less expensive option.
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Existing Health Conditions
The gastric sleeve and gastric balloon procedures have their roles to play in battling health-related obesity issues such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia. If the health problems are particularly more serious, going for a gastric sleeve surgery might work better because of its potent and long-term effects. If your health condition is less severe, a gastric balloon procedure could be just what you need.
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Lifestyle Factors
Regardless of which path you take, remember that it will require substantial lifestyle alterations – think a nutrition-packed diet and regular physical activity – for the procedure to give results. The permanent nature of gastric sleeve surgery generally appeals to those who are wholeheartedly ready to turn their lives around. Conversely, suppose you need that initial push in your weight loss journey or see it as a temporary support system. In that case, you might want to go with the gastric balloon procedure.
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Cost and Insurance Considerations
Money matters, like the cost of the procedure and what your insurance will cover, also come into play. Usually, sleeve gastrectomy will cost more than a gastric balloon would. But what insurance covers could change depending on your policy and previous health issues. You must read your coverage details and speak with your provider before making the final call.
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Personal Preferences and Goals
Medical bills aside, how you feel about everything and what you want out of it, all carry some serious weight, too. Some people might gravitate toward the balloon procedure because it doesn’t involve going under the surgery, and you can get it reversed if needed. People looking for a temporary solution might see this as more appealing. On the other hand, others may lean towards sleeve surgery for its potential to offer long-lasting weight loss results.
Conclusion
To choose between sleeve surgery or that balloon procedure depends on many things, from BMI to health conditions, lifestyle choices, and personal preferences. Both of these procedures have their upsides and downsides – so it is best to talk over everything with a healthcare professional to figure out which one suits you well, based on the individual ins and outs and past medical conditions. Regardless of whichever procedure gets picked, remember this: success rides heavily upon lifestyle switches, eating healthy, and regular workouts for meaningful results in the long haul.
Ready to make an informed decision about your health journey? Schedule a consultation with Dr. Hector Perez today and embark on the path to a healthier you.