Choosing to undergo Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy is an important decision that takes pre-operative preparation in order to ensure the most successful post-operative results.
Some qualifications candidates must meet to be considered for Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy include:
Serious Health Problems: Morbidly obese individuals are classified as those who weigh twice what is considered the healthy body weight for their height. Read More.
Candidates Must Be Considered Morbidly Obese: This means that the candidate has a body mass index (BMI) of 35 or higher with serious health problems that are related to their obesity, such as Sleep Apnea, Hypertension (High Blood Pressure), type 2 Diabetes, and many more. Individuals suffering from morbid obesity are at risk for more than 30 co-morbid medical problems such as these. If a candidate’s BMI is 40 or greater he/she is considered a surgical candidate even without associated medical conditions because the risk of serious medical problems is so high.
Candidates Must Have Tried to Lose Weight While Participating in a Documented, Formalized Weight Control Program: Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy is usually considered after all other options have been exhausted.
Candidates Must Be Willing and Motivated to Make the Permanent Lifestyle Changes Necessary to Live a Healthier Life: Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy is not a quick fix for obesity. Rather, it is a starting point toward a healthier lifestyle.
In addition, prospective patients should understand the procedure’s benefits and risks so that they can make a fully informed decision and achieve a successful surgical outcome. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Barnes, please contact our Dallas / Fort Worth area practice today.
Preparing for Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy
Our practice uses a multidisciplinary approach to help individuals seeking weight loss surgery to achieve and maintain a fit lifestyle. This new lifestyle begins prior to surgery, and you learn how to make more nutrient-dense food choices and gain healthier diet and exercise habits. Our staff has tremendous experience in helping obese patients achieve their weight loss goals. Dr. Barnes will provide you with a specific pre-operative plan to help prepare you for surgery. Following this plan will ensure the most successful outcome possible.
FITNESS
Being physically active is a very important step in maintaining weight loss and preparing for surgery. Exercise can help promote your ability to heal from injury or soreness as well as improve your flexibility and range of motion.
BEHAVIORAL COUNSELING
You must undergo a psychological screening with a Psychologist specializing in Bariatrics prior to your procedure. This is designed to identify and help you cope with any issues that can negatively affect your weight loss goals. If serious mental health problems are identified, you can discuss treatment options with a Licensed Psychologist. Even when mentally healthy, you are encouraged to build a strong support network of family and friends to help you achieve results that will last a lifetime. A strong support system can help you achieve successful surgical results that last a lifetime.
NUTRITION AND DIET
You will need to undergo nutrition counseling with a Registered Dietitian to create an appropriate diet that meets both your caloric and nutrient needs. Our Registered Dietitian will create a detailed diet program that will help prepare your body for this life-changing surgery. This is provided in a pre-operative class.
You will receive other important pre-operative as well as post-operative instructions based on their specific situation and medical condition during the initial consultation.
Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy surgery can help you lose weight and reduce the risk of health problems brought on by morbid obesity. Dr. Gregory Barnes is happy to answer your questions and address your concerns about Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy and any other procedure we offer. Please contact our weight loss surgeon for more information, or to schedule an appointment.