At The Weight Loss Surgery Center of Los Angeles, we understand that the journey to achieving your weight loss goals is deeply personal. With so many bariatric procedures available, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. Each option has its unique benefits, and understanding which procedure is right for you is essential to your success. The following are the benefits of four common weight loss procedures—sleeve gastrectomy, gastric plication, lap-band, and gastric balloon—to help you make an informed decision about your weight loss journey.
Sleeve Gastrectomy
One of the most popular and effective bariatric procedures is the sleeve gastrectomy. This surgery involves the removal of approximately 80% of the stomach, leaving a small, tube-like “sleeve.” This drastically reduces the amount of food you can consume, leading to significant weight loss.
The sleeve gastrectomy also has hormonal benefits. By removing the portion of the stomach that produces the hunger hormone ghrelin, patients often experience reduced appetite. Studies show that patients can lose up to 60-70% of their excess weight within the first year after surgery, making it a highly effective long-term solution for obesity. Benefits:
- Significant weight loss
- No foreign objects placed in the body
- Alters hunger hormones
- Permanent, long-term solution
Gastric Plication
Gastric plication is a newer, minimally invasive procedure that involves folding the stomach inward and suturing it to reduce its size. Unlike sleeve gastrectomy, no part of the stomach is removed, and no implants or foreign materials are used. This procedure significantly reduces stomach volume, allowing patients to feel fuller faster and consume less food.
While still relatively new, gastric plication has shown promising results. Patients can expect to lose up to 40-60% of their excess weight within the first year. Additionally, because it’s less invasive than other bariatric procedures, the recovery time is typically shorter, and there’s a lower risk of complications. Benefits include:
- Minimally invasive, no removal of stomach tissue
- Shorter recovery time
- No foreign materials implanted
- Reversible, if needed
Lap-Band
The lap-band procedure involves placing an adjustable silicone band around the upper portion of the stomach, creating a small pouch that limits food intake. The band can be tightened or loosened through adjustments made by your surgeon, allowing for a personalized approach to weight loss.
Lap-band surgery is less invasive than other procedures, with a quicker recovery time. However, weight loss tends to be slower compared to sleeve gastrectomy or gastric plication. On average, patients lose about 30-40% of their excess weight within two years, but many patients achieve higher weight loss by adhering to lifestyle changes. One advantage of the lap-band is that it’s fully adjustable and reversible, giving patients flexibility in their treatment. Benefits:
- Adjustable and reversible
- Minimally invasive with quick recovery
- No removal of stomach tissue
Gastric Balloon
The gastric balloon is a temporary, non-surgical procedure where a balloon is inserted into the stomach and filled with saline to reduce the stomach’s capacity. This limits how much you can eat and promotes a feeling of fullness.
The gastric balloon remains in place for about six months, after which it is removed. During that time, patients can lose up to 20-30% of their excess weight. This option is ideal for individuals who are looking for a temporary weight loss solution or for those who may not be candidates for more invasive surgeries. Benefits:
- Non-surgical, temporary solution
- Quick recovery time
- Ideal for patients with lower BMI
Which Procedure is Right for You?
The right bariatric procedure for you depends on your weight loss goals, medical history, and lifestyle. At The Weight Loss Surgery Center of Los Angeles, we offer personalized consultations to help you understand your options and choose the best path for your journey. Whether you’re looking for a permanent solution like sleeve gastrectomy, a minimally invasive option like gastric plication, a flexible solution like the lap-band, or a temporary approach like the gastric balloon, we are here to guide you every step of the way.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a healthier, happier you!
Posted on behalf of Dr. David G. Davtyan MD, FACS, FICS
