Sleeve Gastrectomy Surgery Package

Know More About Procedure & Surgery

Sleeve gastrectomy is a popular weight-loss surgery, especially for international patients seeking affordable and high-quality treatment. India has emerged as a leading destination for bariatric procedures due to its experienced surgeons, accredited hospitals, and significantly lower costs compared to Western countries. Medical tourism companies like Satyug Healthcare play a crucial role in facilitating this journey for international patients.

Sleeve Gastrectomy Surgery: Overview

Sleeve gastrectomy, often referred to as "gastric sleeve" surgery, is a bariatric procedure that involves surgically removing a large portion (about 75-80%) of the stomach. The remaining portion is reshaped into a smaller, tube-like "sleeve."

How it promotes weight loss:

1. Reduced Stomach Capacity: The smaller stomach can hold significantly less food, leading to feeling full more quickly and with smaller portions.
2. Hormonal Changes: The removal of the fundus (the upper part of the stomach) significantly reduces the production of ghrelin, often called the "hunger hormone," which helps in reducing appetite and cravings.

Key features of Sleeve Gastrectomy:

• Irreversible: Unlike gastric banding, sleeve gastrectomy is a permanent alteration of the stomach.
• No Rerouting of Intestines: Unlike gastric bypass, it does not involve rerouting or bypassing any part of the small intestine, which can simplify some nutritional management aspects.
• Minimally Invasive: It is typically performed laparoscopically (keyhole surgery), involving several small incisions instead of one large incision. This leads to less pain, smaller scars, and quicker recovery.

Who is a candidate?

• Individuals with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 or higher (morbid obesity).
• Individuals with a BMI of 35-39.9 (obesity) who also have significant obesity-related health problems (e.g., type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, severe sleep apnea).
• Individuals who have tried and failed to achieve sustainable weight loss through diet and exercise.
• Patients should be committed to long-term lifestyle changes, including dietary modifications and regular exercise.

Expected Weight Loss: Patients can typically expect to lose 60-70% of their excess body weight within 1-2 years after the surgery.

Benefits of Sleeve Gastrectomy:

• Significant and sustained weight loss.
• Improvement or resolution of obesity-related co-morbidities (diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea, joint pain).
• Reduced hunger and increased satiety.
• Relatively shorter operating time compared to gastric bypass.

Recovery and Hospital Stay:

• Hospital Stay: Typically 2-3 days.
• Initial Recovery: Patients usually return to light activities within 1-2 weeks. Strenuous activities and heavy lifting are usually restricted for 4-6 weeks.
• Diet Progression: A strict progressive diet is followed, starting with clear liquids, moving to full liquids, pureed foods, soft foods, and eventually solid foods over several weeks.
• Follow-up: Regular follow-up appointments with the surgeon, nutritionist, and sometimes a psychologist are crucial for long-term success and to monitor for any nutritional deficiencies.

FAQs

Q: Is sleeve gastrectomy reversible?
A: No, it's a permanent procedure.

Q: When can I travel back home?
A: Typically after 7–10 days, once medically fit.

Q: Will I need supplements?
A: Yes, multivitamins and minerals are usually recommended post-surgery.

Additional Services from Satyug Healthcare for International Patients

Satyug Healthcare, as a medical tourism facilitator, aims to provide a comprehensive and hassle-free experience for international patients seeking sleeve gastrectomy in India. Beyond the core surgical package, their additional services typically include:

1. Personalized Medical Opinion and Doctor Selection:

   • Free Online Consultation: Facilitating initial free online consultations (tele/video calls) with top bariatric surgeons in India.
   • Expert Vetting: Providing profiles of highly qualified, experienced, and internationally trained bariatric surgeons associated with JCI/NABH accredited hospitals.
   • Multiple Treatment Plans: Offering cost estimates and treatment options from several leading hospitals, allowing patients to choose based on their preferences and budget.

2. Logistical and Travel Assistance:

   • Medical Visa Support: Guiding patients through the Indian e-Medical Visa application process and providing necessary invitation letters from the chosen hospital.
   • Flight & Accommodation Arrangements: Assisting with flight bookings and arranging suitable accommodation (hotels, serviced apartments, guesthouses) near the hospital for the patient and accompanying family members.
   • Airport Welcome: Complimentary airport pick-up upon arrival and drop-off at departure.
   • Local Transportation: Arranging local transport for hospital visits, consultations, and other essential errands.
   • SIM Card & Currency Exchange: Assistance with acquiring a local SIM card and currency exchange.

3. On-Ground Patient Support:

   • Dedicated Case Manager: A single point of contact available 24/7 during the patient's stay in India, assisting with all non-medical and medical coordination.
   • Language Interpretation: Providing professional interpreters to ensure clear communication between the patient, surgeon, and hospital staff.
   • Hospital Formalities: Streamlining admission, discharge, and billing processes at the hospital.
   • Dietary Needs: Assistance with specific dietary preferences or restrictions outside of the hospital setting, if required.
   • Emotional Support: Providing a supportive environment and addressing any concerns or anxieties the patient or family might have.

4. Comprehensive Pre & Post-Treatment Care Coordination:

   • Pre-arrival preparation: Guiding patients on pre-operative dietary changes and medications.
   • Post-Operative Monitoring: Ensuring adherence to post-surgical diet plans and activity restrictions.
   • Long-term Nutritional Guidance: Connecting patients with dietitians for ongoing support, including vitamin and mineral supplementation plans, crucial for long-term bariatric success.
   • Remote Follow-up: Facilitating virtual follow-up consultations with the Indian surgeon after the patient returns to their home country. They may also assist in coordinating with local healthcare providers for continuous care.

5. Transparency and Trust:

   • Financial Transparency: Satyug Healthcare often works directly with hospitals, providing transparent pricing with no hidden charges, ensuring the patient gets hospital's discounted rates.
   • Quality Assurance: Partnering only with NABH and JCI accredited hospitals, ensuring international standards of care and patient safety.

By offering these comprehensive services, Satyug Healthcare aims to make the sleeve gastrectomy journey for international patients in India as smooth, safe, and successful as possible, allowing them to focus entirely on their health and recovery.