hello - this is my first post. I did some research on Lap Sleeve Gastrectomy and discovered many patients need a second surgery. I am 5'4 and 373 pounds (eek). Am I correct that the VSG is the same as the Lap Sleeve? Is it normal for a patient to need 2 surgeries? My BMI is 64.
"The VSG is a reasonable solution to this problem. It can usually be done laparoscopically even in patients weighing over 500 pounds. The stomach restriction that occurs allows these patients to lose more than 100 pounds. This dramatic weight loss allows significant improvement in health and resolution of associated medical problems such as diabetes and sleep apnea, and therefore effectively ?downstages? a patient to a lower risk group. Once the patients BMI is lower (35-40) they can return to the operating room for the ?second stage? of the procedure, which can either be the Duodenal Switch, Roux?en-Y gastric bypass or even a Lap-Band?. Current, but limited, data for this ?two stage? approach indicate adequate weight loss and fewer complications"
I definiteky do not want to have 2 surgeries. Thus, what are some other alternatives? Is a second surgery always needed with the lap VSG?
