Gastric Sleeve Surgery vs. Gastric Bypass Surgery

So, you are thinking about having weight loss surgery but you aren’t sure where to start. Weight loss surgery is a huge decision. There are so many things to consider when deciding if weight loss surgery is right for you. The most important step you can take when you are first considering weight loss surgery is to do your research. There are different types of weight loss procedures and it is important to know the pros and cons of each surgery. The two main procedures that patients have are gastric sleeve and gastric bypass. The first decision you will have to make is which one is the better fit for you. 

Weight loss surgery comes down to two things: restriction and malabsorption. Gastric sleeve works through restriction whereas gastric bypass works through restriction and malabsorption. With the gastric sleeve, part of the stomach is removed from the body and the remaining stomach is left in a banana-like shape. With gastric bypass, a small pouch is formed and the intestines are rerouted. Both of these surgeries have pros and cons and it is important that you do your research before deciding which procedure is best for you. 

There is no surgery that is better than the other. Each person is different and has different experiences with the procedures. Surgeons have different reasons for recommending specific procedures. For people with weight-related illnesses, surgeons usually recommend gastric bypass. On the other hand, individuals who are younger and do not have any other illnesses are usually recommended the gastric sleeve. However, this does not mean it is always the case. It is important that you work closely with your surgeon in deciding which procedure is best for you. They usually have a good reason behind the one that they are recommending to you, so take it seriously and remember that they are experts in this. 

Gastric bypass has been around longer than the sleeve so there is more long-term data out there on the procedure. This doesn’t mean that gastric sleeve is not as good as the gastric bypass, but it is easier to learn about the success rate and other information about gastric bypass. Gastric sleeve is less invasive and has fewer complications than the bypass so many people like that about the procedure. However, when it comes down to it, it is up to you and your surgeon to decide which one is the better fit for you. It is critical that you do your research on the different procedures. Remember, both surgeries have saved thousands of lives! No matter which one you choose, make sure you feel confident in your decision and trust in your medical team. Good luck!