Gastric Sleeve Candidates
Are You a Candidate for Gastric Sleeve Surgery?
At Davtyan Medical Weight Loss & Wellness, we’re dedicated to helping individuals achieve sustainable weight loss and improved health through advanced medical solutions. Gastric sleeve surgery, also known as sleeve gastrectomy, is one of our most effective procedures. Led by Dr. Davtyan, a pioneering surgeon with decades of experience in bariatrics, we ensure our patients receive top-tier care and support on their weight loss journeys.
If you’re struggling with obesity and considering gastric sleeve surgery, this guide covers everything you need to know—from understanding the procedure to evaluating your candidacy and preparing for the next steps.
What Is Gastric Sleeve Surgery?
Gastric sleeve surgery is a minimally invasive bariatric procedure designed to help individuals achieve significant weight loss. By reducing the size of the stomach, the procedure limits food intake, making it easier to practice portion control and feel fuller with smaller meals.
Overview of the Procedure
During gastric sleeve surgery, your surgeon removes around 70-80% of the stomach, leaving a smaller, sleeve-shaped stomach. This significantly reduces the body’s capacity to hold food and impacts the production of hunger hormones like ghrelin, helping to suppress appetite naturally.
Dr. Davtyan and his team specialize in laparoscopic techniques, which involve small incisions, shorter recovery times, and reduced risk of complications. Patients are often able to resume normal activities more quickly compared to traditional surgical methods.
Benefits of Choosing Gastric Sleeve
There are many reasons why gastric sleeve surgery has become a popular choice for weight loss:
- Sustainable Weight Loss: On average, patients lose 60-70% of their excess weight within the first year after surgery.
- Improved Health: The procedure often helps resolve obesity-related conditions like type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and sleep apnea.
- Minimally Invasive: With laparoscopic techniques, recovery is faster and easier.
- No Foreign Devices: Unlike other options like gastric banding, gastric sleeve surgery doesn’t involve implants.
- Enhanced Quality of Life: Many patients report increased energy, mobility, and confidence post-surgery.
Under the skilled care of Dr. Davtyan, patients not only experience these benefits but also receive personalized support to ensure long-term success.
Who Qualifies for Gastric Sleeve Surgery?
Not everyone struggling with obesity is automatically a candidate for gastric sleeve surgery. Certain medical, lifestyle, and weight-related criteria must be met to ensure the procedure’s safety and effectiveness.
BMI and Weight Requirements
Body Mass Index (BMI) is a key determinant. Ideal candidates typically have:
- A BMI of 40 or higher (classified as severe obesity)
- A BMI of 35 or higher with obesity-related conditions such as diabetes or hypertension
For those who are slightly below these thresholds, Dr. Davtyan assesses each case individually to determine suitability.
Health Conditions Considered
Chronic conditions tied to obesity may make weight loss surgery a viable option. These include:
- Type 2 diabetes
- Sleep apnea
- High blood pressure
- Joint pain or arthritis exacerbated by excessive weight
At Davtyan Medical Weight Loss & Wellness, we perform thorough evaluations to determine how gastric sleeve surgery could alleviate these health challenges.
Age and Lifestyle Factors
While there’s no universal age limit, most candidates are between 18 and 65. Younger individuals are assessed for maturity and readiness to adopt long-term lifestyle changes, while older adults undergo additional evaluations to ensure they can safely undergo surgery. A commitment to improving eating habits and incorporating regular exercise is also essential.
Medical and Psychological Evaluations
One of the unique aspects of Dr. Davtyan’s approach is his comprehensive evaluation process, which focuses equally on physical and mental readiness.
Physical Health Assessments
Patients undergo a series of physical exams and lab tests, including bloodwork and imaging, to assess overall health and identify any potential issues. Conditions such as severe heart disease or uncontrolled acid reflux may require additional precautions or alternative treatments.
Mental Health and Behavioral Readiness
Gastric sleeve surgery isn’t just a physical transformation—it’s a mental one, too. Our team works with you to evaluate your emotional readiness, eating behaviors, and ability to make the necessary lifestyle adjustments after surgery. Conditions like untreated eating disorders or severe depression may need to be addressed beforehand.
When Gastric Sleeve May Not Be Recommended
While gastric sleeve surgery is highly effective, it’s not always the right solution for everyone. Understanding the contraindications and alternative options is crucial.
Contraindications and Health Risks
Individuals with certain health conditions may not be suitable candidates. These include:
- Severe gastrointestinal disorders
- Uncontrolled chronic diseases (e.g., liver failure)
- Pregnancy or plans to become pregnant in the near future
- Substance abuse issues
Dr. Davtyan places patient safety above all else. If the risks outweigh the benefits, he will recommend alternative approaches.
Alternative Weight Loss Options
For some, non-surgical treatments may be more appropriate. These include:
- Prescription weight loss medications
- Medically supervised diets
- Endoscopic procedures, such as gastric balloon insertion
Dr. Davtyan specializes in tailoring personalized weight loss plans to help every patient achieve their goals safely.
Next Steps for Potential Candidates
If you believe you might be a candidate for gastric sleeve surgery, the next steps involve consultations, screenings, and preparation.
Consultation and Screening
During your initial consultation, Dr. Davtyan will review your medical history, discuss your weight loss goals, and evaluate your physical and emotional readiness. This is also a chance for you to ask any questions and gain a clear understanding of the process.
Preparing for Surgery
Preparation involves making lifestyle changes that set you up for success, including:
- Adopting a healthy, protein-rich diet
- Quitting smoking to reduce surgical risks
- Engaging in light physical activity to improve overall health
At Davtyan Medical Weight Loss & Wellness, our team provides step-by-step guidance throughout this preparation process, ensuring you feel confident and ready for your weight loss surgery.
Gastric sleeve surgery can be life-changing, but the first step is understanding whether it’s right for you. At Davtyan Medical Weight Loss & Wellness, Dr. Davtyan and his caring team are here to guide you through every stage, from evaluations to post-surgery care. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and take control of your health and future!
