What is VSG Surgery?

As one of the experts in bariatric surgery, we have many patients that come in asking about VSG surgery. They see success stories, like this one shown in Women’s Health magazine, and want to know if these kind of results are viable for themselves. Though each patient is different, we can help answer basic questions like what is VSG surgery, how does it help with weight loss, and if it is right for you.

What does the V, S, and G stand for?

VSG surgery stands for vertical sleeve gastrectomy and is essentially another name for gastric sleeve surgery. In this type of surgery, a portion of your stomach is removed while you are under general anesthesia. After the procedure, the stomach takes the shape of a tube or “sleeve” so that it holds less food and makes you feel fuller faster when eating.

How does it help with weight loss?

Not only does it restrict the amount of food you consume, it also changes your hormone levels. Levels of ghrelin, a hunger hormone, drop in your body so that your appetite becomes reduced initially. These hormonal changes will assist you as you progress on your weight loss journey. Now that we’ve answered your first two questions of what is VSG surgery and how it helps, let’s dive deeper into the details.

Is VSG surgery right for me? 

This surgical weight-loss procedure is for those who are overweight and obese and have had trouble losing excess weight. When your weight becomes potentially life-threatening and you’ve explored other options, VSG surgery could be the answer. VSG coupled with permanent lifestyle changes can reduce your risk of type 2 diabetes and other weight-induced health problems.

The only way to know for sure if VSG surgery is right for you is by scheduling an appointment with a bariatric surgeon. Surgeons like Dr. Cernero specialize in these types of weight-loss surgeries and can assess if you’re a good candidate. If you have more questions besides “what is VSG surgery?”, schedule a consultation today.

Posted in: Bariatric Surgery, Weight Loss Surgery