Gastric Sleeve Surgery vs. Gastric Bypass Surgery

Patients considering bariatric treatment may wonder if gastric sleeve vs. gastric bypass surgery will yield them better results. While both options can result in dramatic weight loss, the procedures differ in terms of surgical approaches, dietary guidelines, and long-term effectiveness. Dr. Liza María Pompa González at LIMARP® in Tijuana, México , can evaluate your candidacy and help you determine which procedure will deliver optimal results for you.

Gastric Sleeve Surgery at a Glance

This permanent weight loss surgery reduces the size of the stomach by 80 to 85 percent. The remaining portion of the stomach is formed into a tube or sleeve shape. By restricting stomach size, the patient feels fuller faster and consequently does not need to eat as much. The procedure also reduces the hormone responsible for stimulating hunger, called ghrelin.

Gastric Bypass Surgery at a Glance

Gastric bypass surgery relies on two surgical approaches to help patients achieve significant weight loss. The first of these reduces the size of the stomach to limit caloric intake, much like a gastric bypass. The second procedure rearranges the intestine so that the body absorbs less digested food and fewer calories, which further aids in weight loss.

Notable Differences

The key difference between these two bariatric procedures is, for one, the potential amount of weight lost. In general, gastric bypass surgery can help patients lose more weight than a gastric sleeve. This is largely due to the fact that gastric bypass results in fat and sugar malabsorption due to intestinal redirection, while gastric sleeve does not. However, there is a downside: bypass malabsorption makes it harder for the body to absorb essential nutrients and minerals. Gastric bypass patients therefore need to take vitamins and dietary supplements for the rest of their lives to ensure proper nutritional uptake.

Since gastric bypass is a more complex surgery with a higher risk of complications, it is typically reserved for more serious cases, such as patients with diabetes. Dr. Pompa may recommend the procedure for patients with a BMI of 35 or more. It is also an option for patients with life-threatening obesity-related health concerns, such as type 2 diabetes.

Which Procedure is Right for You?

To help you decide which treatment is right for your health status and weight loss goals, consider the key benefits of each:

Learn More about your Options for Weight Loss Today

Choosing the right surgeon to perform the procedure most appropriate for your weight-loss needs can make all the difference in achieving and sustaining your goals. Learn more by contacting LIMARP today via our online messaging form or calling us toll-free from the US at (619) 270-8823.