Weight Loss Surgery Benefits

Sleeve gastrectomy surgery benefits

Improvements in health, quality of life, and, of course, significant weight loss are important bariatric surgery benefits. The information below provides greater detail about these benefits and will help you understand how sleeve gastrectomy can help you achieve and maintain a healthier weight.

Significant weight loss

Health benefits

Studies have demonstrated that patients lost an average of 55% of their excess weight.13

Table 1: Health Improvements After Sleeve Gastrectomy A clinical study on sleeve gastrectomy showed the following health benefits.
Health Problem (Comorbidity) Result After Sleeve Gastrectomy
  Resolved Improved
Type 2 Diabetes 56%36 37%36
High Blood Pressure 49%36 29%36
High Cholesterol 43%36 38%36
Obstructive Sleep Apnea 60%36 33%36

Shorter hospital stays, faster recovery

The majority of sleeve gastrectomy procedures are performed using a laparoscopic technique. Laparoscopic (minimally invasive) surgery results in a shorter hospital stay, faster recovery, smaller scars, and less pain than open surgical procedures.

Cost savings over time

A recent study showed that expenses associated with bariatric surgery were recouped in about 2 years.11 One important reason is that weight loss surgery may help to improve or resolve conditions associated with obesity, such as type 2 diabetes and high cholesterol,9 so patients save money on related prescription drugs, doctor visits, and hospital visits.11 In addition, monthly savings associated with laparoscopic bariatric surgery reach more than $900 as early as 13 months following surgery.11

A reduction in cravings for sweets

A clinical study showed that 50% of patients who had a sleeve gastrectomy procedure lost their craving for sweets after 1 year, and after 3 years 23% still experienced a loss of cravings for sweets.25 In addition, the level of a hormone called ghrelin, which has been described as a hunger-regulating hormone, was found to be significantly reduced after sleeve gastrectomy surgery.26, 27

Quality-of-life improvements

Clinical studies of laparoscopic bariatric surgery patients found that they felt better, spent more time doing recreational and physical activities, benefited from enhanced productivity and economic opportunities, and had more self-confidence than they did prior to surgery.9

As you can see, a sleeve gastrectomy procedure may have many benefits. However, it isn't for everyone. Only you and your surgeon can decide if bariatric surgery is an appropriate treatment option for you. Learn more about eligibility for sleeve gastrectomy.

Take the next important step to learn more about the sleeve gastrectomy

If you're considering sleeve gastrectomy, we encourage you to attend a weight loss surgery information seminar hosted by a REALIZE trained surgeon at a bariatric clinic that offers sleeve gastrectomy. It's a great way to learn about your surgical weight loss options, meet bariatric team members who will support you before and long after your surgery, and possibly hear from patients who have had weight loss surgery. There's no pressure to make a commitment—and no better way to get the answers you're looking for. Of course, family and friends are welcome, too.

Use our seminar finder to locate a seminar in your area, and register to ensure that you have a seat because seminars often fill up.

Want to talk it over? We're ready to help. Call us at 1-855-2-REALIZE if you have questions or concerns or want help finding a seminar near you.