Who Can Get a Gastric Sleeve Surgery?

Gastric Sleeve Surgery, also known as Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy (VSG), is an effective weight loss procedure, but not everyone qualifies for it. The surgery is primarily recommended for individuals who meet specific health, weight, and Body Mass Index (BMI) criteria. In this guide, we’ll explain who qualifies for Gastric Sleeve Surgery and the factors that make someone a good candidate.

At Tour Medical, we work with trusted Health Tourism Authorized clinics to coordinate your treatment and ensure that you receive expert care. Our partner clinics evaluate candidates thoroughly to determine if Gastric Sleeve Surgery is the right option for their weight loss journey.

What is Gastric Sleeve Surgery?

Before discussing qualifications, it’s important to understand what Gastric Sleeve Surgery involves. The procedure reduces the stomach size by removing approximately 75-80% of it, leaving behind a tube-shaped “sleeve.” This smaller stomach helps control hunger by limiting food intake and reducing the production of ghrelin, the hunger hormone.

The surgery is performed laparoscopically, making it minimally invasive, and it is recommended for individuals struggling with obesity who have been unsuccessful with traditional weight loss methods.

Ideal Candidates for Gastric Sleeve Surgery

To determine if you are eligible for Gastric Sleeve Surgery, the following criteria are usually considered by our partner clinics:

1. BMI Criteria

   • BMI of 40 or Higher: Candidates with a BMI of 40 or above are considered severely obese and often experience obesity-related health problems like Type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure.
   • BMI Between 35 and 39.9 with Health Problems: Individuals in this BMI range may qualify if they have obesity-related conditions such as sleep apnea, heart disease, or joint pain.
   • BMI Between 30 and 34.9 with Serious Health Conditions: In some cases, individuals with a lower BMI may qualify if they have severe obesity-related complications.

2. Obesity-Related Health Problems
   Candidates who experience health issues related to obesity, such as:

   • Type 2 diabetes
   • Hypertension
   • Sleep apnea
   • Heart disease
   • Joint issues
     These conditions often improve after Gastric Sleeve Surgery.

3. Failed Weight Loss Attempts
   Individuals who have tried traditional weight loss methods—such as dieting, exercise, and weight loss medications—but have not achieved significant results are often considered for the surgery.

4. Age Requirements
   Most candidates for Gastric Sleeve Surgery are between the ages of 18 and 65. Exceptions can be made for younger patients if obesity poses severe health risks, and older patients may be eligible if they are in good health.

5. Commitment to Lifestyle Changes
   Success with Gastric Sleeve Surgery requires a commitment to lifelong lifestyle changes, including:

   • Following a healthy, nutrient-rich diet
   • Exercising regularly
   • Prioritizing protein intake
     Patients who are mentally and emotionally prepared to make these changes are more likely to succeed.

Who Should Avoid Gastric Sleeve Surgery?

Although Gastric Sleeve Surgery offers many benefits, certain individuals may not be suitable candidates:

• Untreated Eating Disorders: People with binge eating disorder, bulimia, or other disordered eating behaviors may not qualify until their condition is treated.
• Pregnant Women: Women who are currently pregnant or planning to become pregnant soon should wait until after childbirth to pursue surgery.
• Gastrointestinal Issues: People with conditions like Crohn’s disease or severe acid reflux may not be good candidates.
• Substance Abuse: Individuals with alcohol or drug dependency should address these issues before considering surgery.

Preparing for Gastric Sleeve Surgery

If you qualify for Gastric Sleeve Surgery, preparation is key to a successful outcome:

• Consultation with a Specialist: Your first step will be a consultation with a bariatric surgeon to evaluate your health, weight, and medical history.
• Medical Evaluations: Your surgeon may require blood tests, an EKG, or other evaluations to ensure you are healthy enough for the procedure.
• Pre-Surgery Diet: Patients may need to follow a special diet to reduce the size of their liver before surgery, making the procedure safer.

Benefits of Gastric Sleeve Surgery for the Right Candidates

When performed on the right candidates, Gastric Sleeve Surgery offers life-changing benefits, including:

• Sustainable Weight Loss: Most patients lose 60-70% of their excess weight within 1-2 years after surgery.
• Improved Health: Conditions like diabetes, sleep apnea, and hypertension often improve or resolve after weight loss.
• Increased Mobility: Weight loss reduces strain on joints, improving mobility and reducing pain.
• Enhanced Quality of Life: Patients often experience better mental health, self-esteem, and overall quality of life.

FAQs About Gastric Sleeve Surgery Candidates

1. Who qualifies for Gastric Sleeve Surgery?
   Individuals with a BMI of 40 or higher, or a BMI between 35-39.9 with obesity-related health problems.

2. What health problems make someone eligible?
   Conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and sleep apnea often qualify individuals for surgery.

3. Is there an age limit?
   Most candidates are between 18 and 65, though exceptions can be made for younger or older patients based on their health.

4. What if I have a lower BMI?
   Individuals with a BMI between 30 and 34.9 may qualify if they have serious health complications.

5. Can I get surgery if I have an eating disorder?
   Surgery may not be recommended until disordered eating behaviors are treated.

At Tour Medical, we coordinate your journey with trusted partner clinics in Turkey to ensure a smooth, successful experience. Even if you are not a patient of ours, feel free to contact us with any questions. Our patient coordinators are happy to assist you.

Email: info@tourmedical.com