Gastric Bypass or Sleeve Gastrectomy: Which One Is Better?

In the United States, a major and rising concern is obesity. Studies show that almost 70% of patients are going for gastric bypass to reduce the risk of heart disease, while 60% of patients are going for sleeve gastrectomy.

Gastric bypass surgery is a procedure that helps with weight loss by modifying how the stomach and small intestine handle the intake. Sleeve gastrectomy is a surgical weight-loss technique typically performed laparoscopically and involves inserting small tools through multiple small incisions in the upper abdomen. 

Difference between Gastric Bypass and Sleeve Gastrectomy

There are factors to consider when choosing between gastric bypass surgery and sleeve gastrectomy.  These two procedures are both permanent, reduce appetite, and have the highest weight loss percentage, but to properly compare the treatments, it is important to understand their differences. 

In sleeve gastrectomy, about 80% of the stomach is removed, making the weight loss procedure take longer than gastric bypass. In gastric bypass, a small pouch is created, and the small intestine is re-routed. It's more invasive than the gastrectomy technique due to the redirection of the small bowel. Patients may drop weight faster in the following months post-surgery.

Researchers have found that both weight loss treatment options have shown significant results. Patients who have undergone sleeve gastrectomy treatment lost a significant amount of weight in a short time period.

Risks & Complications of Gastric Bypass Surgery

There are certain risks and complications associated with gastric bypass surgery, such as: 

• Extreme Bleeding 
• Infection 
• Anesthesia side effects 
• Blood clotting
• Breathing problems 
• Leakage in the intestinal system
• Bowel blockage
• Dumping syndrome 
• Gallstones 
• Hernia
• Hypoglycemia 
• Malnourishment 
• Abdomen perforation 
• Ulcer 

See Also: Common Types of Gastrointestinal Surgical Procedures

Pros & Cons of Gastric Bypass Surgery

Pros

It is an easy weight-loss option and an effective way to solve acid reflux issues. The surgery is a trusted and long-term solution for weight loss.

Cons

The surgical procedure is complex. Apart from that, the patient may consume a lot of supplements post-surgery, which raises the risk of dumping syndrome too. 

Risks and Complications of Sleeve Gastrectomy

Sleeve gastrectomy can lead to certain complications. Below are the risks associated with this procedure: 

• Dehydration 
• Food disliking
• Gallstones 
• Malnourishment. 
• Stomach inflammation 
• Heartburn 
• Nausea 
• Leakage of digestive contents through the incision area
• Peritonitis
• Infection

Pros & Cons of Sleeve Gastrectomy Surgery

Pros

Sleeve Gastrectomy is a safer weight loss option than other options, and the body does not suffer from any nutritional deficiency post-treatment. Another major advantage is that the procedure takes a short time.

Cons

The surgery is irreversible and causes acid reflux after the treatment.

Necessary Dietary Changes for Gastric Bypass Surgery

Post-gastric bypass, dietary changes depend on the condition of the individual. A gastric bypass diet follows a systematic approach to ease back into eating solid foods. Usually, one can start eating regular foods about three months post-surgery.

However, necessary instructions are important to follow:

• Drinking a significant amount of water in a day to avoid dehydration.
• Consume water between meals.  
• Eat and drink slowly. 
• Eat protein-rich foods daily.
• Choose foods that are low in fats and sugar.
• Limit caffeine.
• Take vitamin and mineral supplements as prescribed.
• Snack often

Sleeve Gastrectomy Surgery

• Post-surgery, it is usually recommended to start with a liquid diet to avoid an uneasy stomach. Tips you need to be mindful of include the following:
• Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration. If you have trouble remaining hydrated, go for electrolyte drinks, such as Gatorade.
• Restrict sugar consumption. 
• Avoid caffeine and caffeine products. 
• Avoid carbonated beverages, including the ones with sugar, no-calorie choices, and seltzer.

Average Cost of Surgery

The average industry cost of gastric bypass surgery is typically between $15,000 to $35,000, while the average price of sleeve gastrectomy generally is between $9,000 to $27,000. However, the costs can vary based on the location and clinic. Therefore, it is essential to research before choosing any nearest weight loss surgery clinic. 

Bottom Line

Bariatric surgery offers a long-term solution to a concerning issue of obesity. Bariatric surgery can alter the physical facets that make it so hard for individuals suffering from obesity to lose weight. While both surgical procedures can have risks and complications, these are much lower than the risks and complications of obesity and its related disorders.

See Also: What to Expect Before and During an Abdominal Surgery

List of Our Treatments

We provide diverse treatments that help you with weight loss. Our treatments include the following: 

• Gastrointestinal Surgery
• Abdominal Surgery
• Minimally Invasive Surgery

Contact Far North Surgery for Standard Treatment!

Weight loss can be extremely difficult to accomplish, but it can be done! We have a team of highly-competent surgeons in Anchorage, AK, who have collaborated with other specialists to offer holistic medical care to our patients, making us the trusted name for cancer treatment in Anchorage, AK. Dr. Madhu Prasad is the recipient of the Anchorage Awards for Best Cancer Treatment, making Far North Surgery a credible name for oncology in Alaska.

Far North Surgery provides the best weight loss treatment to patients suffering from obesity. We provide the finest surgical treatments and consultations. Contact us to learn more about our services.