Why Sleeve Gastrectomy is a Great Option for Patients With a Lower BMI

Posted on May 31st, 2019

Did you know that more than 1 in 3 adults are considered obese, having a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or more? If you fall into this category, you might be wondering what kind of weight loss surgical options are available to you.

Many people think you have to be considered morbidly obese — a BMI of 40 or more — before you even qualify for weight loss surgery. However, according to a recent study, having this procedure earlier might be the best way to lose your extra weight quickly and safely.

Dr. Chengelis and our care team at Advanced Laparoscopic Surgery want you to know that you have options. Here are the details you need to decide if sleeve gastrectomy might be right for you sooner rather than later.

Sleeve gastrectomy 101

This procedure is typically performed laparoscopically or robotically with a few small cuts made in the upper abdomen. These incisions give Dr. Chengelis the opening he needs to insert small instruments into your abdomen to see inside.

Then, he uses the instruments and cameras to remove around 80% of your stomach. The part left behind is about the size and shape of a banana. The smaller size of the stomach limits the amount of food you can consume.   However, the real impact comes from the physiologic changes that occur when that large portion of your stomach is removed.  Removal of this stomach causes metabolic changes in the way the body stores excess sugar and fat.  So you lose weight much more consistently and for a long term than simple caloric restriction found in medical diets.

Lower BMI and benefits of sleeve gastrectomy

Once your BMI hits 40, you’re considered morbidly obese and at a significantly higher risk of obesity-related complications, like diabetes and heart disease. A recent study discovered that having the surgery when your BMI is lower may better set you up for success.

Only 1 in 3 people who have a sleeve gastrectomy get their BMI below 30 in one year after the procedure. One significant factor in this finding is the height-to-weight ratio of the person before surgery. This means that if you have a weight loss surgery before you hit the threshold of morbid obesity, you have a better chance of success.

In fact, you’ll have a greater likelihood of dropping your BMI out of the obese category before you hit the one-year anniversary of the procedure.

Is it right for you?

If you’ve been trying to lose weight with diet and exercise without success, this surgery might be an option. Sleeve gastrectomy could be right for you if your BMI is between 35 and 39.9 and you have one of the following health problems related to weight:

• Sleep apnea
• Type 2 diabetes
• High blood pressure

The best way to find out your options is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Chengelis. He’ll perform a health history and assessment to see if you qualify for sleeve gastrectomy. Give our office a call to schedule your consultation.