What Is a Mini Gastric Sleeve?
Curious about what is a mini sleeve? You might be uncertain about its distinctions from the traditional gastric sleeve procedure? Look no further as this article provides valuable insights.
Sleeve gastrectomy, commonly known as gastric sleeve, remains the most prevalent weight loss surgery performed worldwide. However, for those seeking an advanced and minimally invasive approach, the mini sleeve emerges as a promising alternative. Also referred to as mini-VSG or mini gastric sleeve, this procedure allows patients to achieve their weight loss goals while significantly reducing recovery time and surgical risks. Today, let’s delve into this unique variation of the vertical sleeve gastrectomy (VSG) and compare its benefits.
Who Might be a Good Candidate for a Mini Sleeve?
Making a decision about gastric sleeve surgery is no easy task. Especially when you discover that there’s another option available to you: the mini gastric sleeve. The first question that arises is whether you qualify for this procedure.
While it’s crucial to consult a professional weight loss surgeon for a comprehensive evaluation, we can provide you with a general idea.
The mini gastric sleeve is often a suitable choice for individuals with a lower BMI. Typically, patients with BMI rate between 29 and 35 who are seeking a minimally invasive solution are ideal candidates. If you desire similar benefits to traditional gastric sleeve surgery but with reduced risks, less post-operative discomfort, and faster recovery, the mini sleeve can be an excellent alternative. Furthermore, this procedure is commonly recommended for those who are unable to undergo more extensive weight loss surgeries, such as gastric sleeve or gastric bypass.
How Is Mini Gastric Sleeve Performed?
Incisions
In traditional gastric sleeve surgery, the surgeon typically makes three or five abdominal incisions to access the stomach. In contrast, during the mini-sleeve procedure, natural entrances to the patient’s abdominal cavity are utilized instead of cutting through the abdominal wall. This results in only two incisions, one near the belly button and another near the breastbone.
Stomach Reduction
In both procedures, a portion of the stomach is removed. In traditional gastric sleeve surgery, approximately 80% of the stomach is excised. While the mini gastric sleeve reduces the size of the stomach by about 40-50. Additionally, after the stomach is removed in the mini-sleeve procedure, it is either taken out endoscopically or through the belly button.
Duration of Surgery
The mini gastric sleeve surgery usually takes around 30 to 45 minutes to perform.
Recovery after a Mini Gastric Sleeve
The mini sleeve offers a relatively short recovery period, typically allowing patients to return to a desk-type job within 2 to 3 days after surgery. However, if your job involves lifting heavy objects, it is important to exercise caution and handle your work responsibilities carefully during the 4 to 6 weeks following the surgery.P atients often experience significant healing within 10 to 14 days.
Diet Plan after a Mini Sleeve
Following the mini gastric sleeve procedure, you will need to adhere to a specific diet plan for several weeks before gradually returning to your normal eating habits. This typically involves a two-week liquid-only diet immediately after the surgery, followed by a two-week pureed diet. After four weeks, you can begin reintroducing regular foods into your diet gradually.
Remember that the surgical procedure is just one aspect of the overall weight loss journey. It is crucial to remain committed to adopting a healthy lifestyle, which includes following the guidance of your surgeon and dietitian. By doing so, you can achieve sustainable weight loss and improve your overall health.
Mini Gastric Sleeve Cost: How Much Does It Cost in Turkey?
You may assume that the cost of a mini sleeve procedure should be lower than traditional sleeve gastrectomy surgery. And we are aware that it is quite reasonable to think that. But it is not always the case. This is due to the use of laparoscopic instruments and specialized equipment involved in the surgery. These insturments can contribute to the overall cost.
Moreover, the cost can vary significantly based on several factors, including the specific surgical technique employed and the geographical location. As a result, the cost of mini sleeve surgery is comparable to that of other bariatric procedures. The estimated cost range of mini sleeve surgery in different countries is as follows:
- Turkey: $3000-5000
- United States: $15000-20000
- United Kingdom: $10000-15000
- Canada: $15000-18000
- Germany: $10000-15000
How Much Weight Can You Lose with a Mini Gastric Sleeve?
Some individuals may experience a weight loss of approximately 2 pounds (1 kilogram) per week following the procedure, others may lose weight at a slower rate.
How Much of the Stomach Is Removed with a Mini Sleeve?
Most surgeons opt to remove around 40-45% of the stomach with a mini sleeve.
What Is the Difference between Mini Sleeve and Traditional Gastric Sleeve?
The main difference between a gastric sleeve and a mini gastric sleeve lies in the extent of stomach resizing. In a gastric sleeve procedure, we can remove approximately 80% of the stomach, whereas in a mini gastric sleeve procedure, we aim to reduce the size of the stomach by about 40%.