Is there an age requirement to have the sleeve gastrectomy?
It is recommended that you be between the ages of 18 and 65 to undergo weight loss surgery including the Sleeve Gastrectomy.
What medical problems will be improved by sleeve gastrectomy?
Most illnesses that are related to obesity can be improved or even cured by weight loss surgery. These include: sleep apnoea, diabetes, high cholesterol, hypertension, stress incontinence, depression, acid reflux, joint pain, as well as osteoarthritis. Losing weight for obese patients also means greater outcomes from pregnancy, increased fertility, and a lower risk of cancer. The surgery increases life expectancy, on the whole.
Are there specific vitamins I need to be taking?
Surgery patients should take a complex multivitamin as well as 1200 mg of calcium daily. Look for a calcium supplement that also has vitamin D. A vitamin B12 supplement is very beneficial, as well. Take two of your multivitamins daily. In the first few weeks after surgery it is preferable to use soluble or chewable multivitamins. Our dietitian will recommend few brands for you.
Is weight loss surgery considered a cure for obesity?
The surgery is considered a "tool" to help patients to lose weight, but not a cure. The patient must utilize the effects of the surgery to adopt a healthy lifestyle of eating properly and exercising to lose weight and reverse their obesity.