What is VSG – Your Sherman, TX Resource for Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy
If you’re considering weight loss surgery, you may have come across the term “VSG” and wondered, “What is VSG?” VSG stands for vertical sleeve gastrectomy, which is simply another common name for a gastric sleeve procedure. At Cernero Surgery & Aesthetics, we are your Sherman, TX resource for bariatric surgery, including VSG.
What is VSG Surgery?
A vertical sleeve gastrectomy (VSG) is a minimally invasive procedure that aims to help individuals lose weight by reducing the size of their stomachs. In surgery, the stomach is reshaped into a sleeve-like structure with a capacity of approximately three to four ounces. When you limit the amount of food that can be consumed, VSG aids in weight loss. Additionally, the procedure causes a drop in the levels of ghrelin, a hunger hormone, leading to a reduction in appetite. On average, patients who opt for VSG can expect to lose a significant portion, up to 50-60% in their first year, of their excess body weight to resume a healthier lifestyle.
Possible Advantages of Sleeve Gastrectomy
Sleeve gastrectomy offers several advantages for individuals seeking weight loss. These advantages include:
Reduced hunger – By lowering ghrelin levels, VSG helps to decrease appetite, making it easier to control food intake.
Restricted portions – After VSG, the stomach’s reduced size limits food intake, encouraging portion control.
Less risk of malabsorption: Unlike some other weight loss surgeries, VSG does not involve rerouting or bypassing the intestines, reducing the risk of malabsorption of nutrients.
No dumping syndrome – VSG typically does not associate with dumping syndrome, a condition where the stomach empties its contents rapidly into the small intestine.
Durable weight loss – Research has shown that VSG delivers long-term weight loss results, aiding patients in maintaining a healthier weight.
Improvement or resolution of weight-related diseases – VSG has been linked to improvements or even complete resolution of more than 40 weight-related diseases, according to Penn Medicine, such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and sleep apnea.
Possible Disadvantages of VSG
While VSG offers numerous benefits, it’s also important to consider the potential disadvantages. These may include:
Ulcers from smoking or NSAID use: Smoking and the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can increase the risk of ulcers after surgery.
Stricture or narrowing of the sleeve: In some cases, the newly formed stomach sleeve may narrow, requiring medical intervention to address the issue.
Less weight loss compared to gastric bypass: On average, VSG leads to slightly less weight loss than gastric bypass surgery. However, the extent of weight loss varies depending on individual factors.
Gastroesophageal reflux: Some patients may experience acid reflux or heartburn symptoms after surgery, although it is often manageable with lifestyle modifications or medication.
What is Recovery Like?
After undergoing surgery, you must make lifelong lifestyle changes to support your weight loss journey. The recovery process typically involves the following:
Hospital stay: You can expect to spend one to two days in the hospital, allowing for proper monitoring and initial recovery.
Diet progression: Following surgery, your diet will progress gradually. You will start with a clear liquid diet within 24 hours and then advance to a full liquid diet, soft food diet, and eventually your regular diet over the following weeks.
Follow-up visits: It’s crucial to have regular follow-up visits with your bariatric surgery team to monitor your progress and address any concerns. These visits usually occur at 10 days, six weeks, three months, six months, and annually thereafter.
Dietitian support: Working with a registered dietitian can help you make healthy food choices, ensure proper nutrition, and develop a sustainable eating plan tailored to your needs.
At Cernero Surgery & Aesthetics, we understand that undergoing VSG surgery is a significant decision. Our experienced team is here to guide you through the process, providing personalized care and support. Contact us today to learn more about VSG and how we can be your trusted resource for bariatric surgery in Sherman, TX. Remember, we’re here to help you achieve your weight loss goals and improve your overall health.
Posted in: Bariatric Surgery, Weight Loss Surgery