When considering types of weight loss surgery, you should become informed about the vertical banded gastroplasty. The vertical banded gastroplasty is surgery performed to help promote weight loss in overweight individuals. The surgery is considered a high risk surgery and should not be taken lightly. With this type of surgery, the stomach size is reduced to a smaller size which helps overweight people eat less food, which then results in weight loss.
The Surgery
Before the surgeon will begin the surgery, you will be placed under general anesthesia. This is done so that you do not feel anything during the procedure. Once the anesthesia has been administered, the surgeon will begin by making an incision in the upper part of your abdomen. He will then make a hole in the top part of the stomach just below the esophagus. Then, the surgeon will place a line of staples along the side of the stomach. This will make a small pouch. The surgeon will measure the pouch to determine if it is the correct size. The stomach will be around 90% smaller than it was when the procedure was started. The small pouch will now only hold about a tablespoon of solid food. This is how you will loose the weight.
After the pouch has been made, the surgeon will the place a band around the outside of the stomach's pouch. This band does not stretch. This will help you to feel full longer since it keeps the food in the stomach longer. Therefore, you will not have to eat as often, helping in the weight loss process. After the surgeon checks the band and makes sure that there is no leaking around the band or the staples, he will clean the area and stitch the abdomen back together. The total surgery time will be around one to two hours depending on if there are any complications. You will then be taken to the recovery room to allow the anesthesia to wear off.
The Recovery Process
Once the surgery has been completed, you will begin the recovery process. This is the beginning of a new life and journey. You will spend a day or two in the hospital to recover then go home to finish the process. During this time, you will need to learn how to eat the proper foods and not to overeat. Overeating can cause many problems such as gas, vomiting, discomfort and diarrhea. These problems can have pain associated with any of them which can be quite severe. You should be able to return to normal everyday activities and exercising within four to six weeks of having the surgery.
Risks
There are risks involved with the surgery. These risks may include infection, complications, anesthesia problems, the formation of blood clots and the risk of death. These risks are greater the more overweight you are.
If you are overweight and are considering having a weight loss surgery, talk to your doctor about which form of weight loss surgery is right for your situation.
