Lap Band Versus Gastric Sleeve - What's The Difference?
If you are considering having surgery for weight loss, you need to know that there are two different types of surgery that are commonly performed. One is referred to as lap band surgery and the other as gastric sleeve surgery. This latter surgery is alternatively called a sleeve gastrectomy. Both types of surgeries have their supporters and detractors, so it is important to know the differences between the two including the advantages and disadvantages. Elective surgery is not anything anyone should rush into, and it is important to have as much information as possible before making a decision.
The fundamental difference between these two procedures:
The lap band surgery utilizes a band that is placed around the top of the stomach. This effectively makes the stomach smaller, and a person will begin to eat less food. The gastric sleeve procedure is one that involves the surgical removal of part of the stomach. This is done by creating a sleeve from the stomach with the use of surgical staples. The portion of the stomach that is no longer used is then discarded. The result is that the stomach is much smaller and less food can be eaten. Patients feel full more quickly after having this surgery.
The difference in safety and recovery between the surgeries:
The medical community has deemed both surgeries safe. That is not to say that there is no risk with these surgeries because there is inherent risk in any surgery; however; there is no difference in risk between these two weight-loss surgeries or any other typical surgery performed in an inpatient environment. The recovery time for the lap band procedure is twice as fast. A hospital stay with the lap band surgery will be about 24 hours and a full recovery in two weeks. The gastric sleeve surgery will mean two days in the hospital and three weeks for a full recovery.
The main advantages of the lap band surgery:
The lap band procedure is performed by using an artificial band, and this means the surgery can be reversed. At any time in the future, a surgeon can remove the band and it is considered a relatively simple surgery. With the band in place, it gives a person time to adjust their eating habits. After a change in eating habits a person may experience weight loss. With a change in lifestyle, there may not be a need to have the band on the stomach, and it can be removed.
The main advantages of the gastric sleeve surgery:
Unlike the lap band surgery, the gastric sleeve procedure is permanent. It also represents a large reduction in the size of the stomach; this will result in a greater weight loss in a shorter time frame than those with the lap band surgery. This is a great benefit in cases where weight must be reduced quickly for emergency medical reasons. Because the surgery is permanent, there are less follow-up visits to the doctor that are needed.
Conclusion:
Regardless of which surgery you choose, an insurance policy that covers one will most likely cover the other as well. The cost of each surgery is approximately the same, but will vary depending upon the medical personnel in the area you live in as well the facilities available. Always talk to a doctor to discuss what is best for you.
About the Author
For more information about Orlando bariatric surgery or the lap band surgery in Orlando, please feel free to contact Dr. Beltre or visit his website at http://saynotoobesity.com/ here patients will have the opportunity to begin the weight-process and take back control of their lives.
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