For many Americans, losing weight is quite difficult. In fact, for many people it can feel downright impossible. A full 50% of Americans explain that they are unsuccessful at losing weight simply because they don’t have enough self-discipline.
But if you have been trying to lose weight to no avail, then it may be time to consider some different weight loss surgery options. There are multiple different methods you can choose including lap band surgery, a gastric sleeve, or a gastric balloon. But for this blog post, we are going to talk about a more extensive surgery, the gastrectomy.
A gastrectomy is a weight loss surgery that removes part or all of the stomach. Here is what you should know about this particular bariatric surgery method.
The three main types of this surgery include:
- Partial gastrectomy: the removal of part of the stomach, usually the lower half.
- Full:the removal of the entire stomach.
- Sleeve: the removal of the left-hand side of the stomach.
How is the procedure performed?
There are two methods your bariatric surgeon can use when they perform the procedure:
- Open surgery:
This involves one large incision. The doctor will have to pull back muscle, tissue, and skin to access the stomach and will close the incision using sutures and/or stitches.
- Laparoscopic surgery
This method is generally preferred as it is less invasive and has a lower rate of complications. This cutting edge operation is performed with very small incisions far away from the stomach using specialized tools.
The risks that come with this type of procedure
Having part or all of your stomach removed will not limit your ability to digest or absorb certain nutrients from foods. However, you will need to make some lifestyle changes in order to prevent these risks from happening:
- Acid reflux
- Gastric dumping, which is a severe form of malnutrition
- Internal bleeding
- A vitamin deficiency
- An infection in the chest
What are some lifestyle changes you can come to expect after surgery?
Depending on your current lifestyle and the severity of your surgery, your doctor may recommend the following:
- Eating smaller meals more frequently
- Drinking more water
- Avoiding high-fiber foods
- Limiting foods that are high in Vitamin C, D, calcium, and iron.
However, for individuals living with obesity, there can be countless positive impacts on their lifestyle as well. If obesity has made it difficult or impossible to lead a fully active life, then weight loss surgery can open exciting new doors.
That’s why a gastrectomy can be a beneficial solution for those looking to lose weight. When other options have failed, it may be time to talk to your physician about the benefits of various weight loss surgery options. In the meantime, please keep your eyes out for our next blog — and get ready for your body to change!
