It's always advised that those considering a weight loss surgery speak with a board certified doctor like Michael Feiz, MD, FACS about their options before having their heart set on one specific procedure, whether it is the lap band, gastric sleeve, gastric bypass, or any other type. However, it is more than fine to read about the many options available and to have questions ready before going in for a consultation. This article in particular will discuss one of the advantages when deciding on lap band vs. gastric sleeve: the hunger hormone ghrelin.

The gastric sleeve surgery, which can be performed entirely through laparoscope by Dr. Feiz, removes the part of the stomach that produces ghrelin, which is responsible for causing hunger. This, when coupled with the smaller capacity of a stomach following a sleeve gastrectomy, leads to patients feeling fuller for a longer period of time, as well as not feeling controlled by constant hunger pangs.

Ghrelin is just one reason to prefer the gastric sleeve to the lap band (and a reason why many will have a convert band to sleeve procedure). This isn't to say that the lap band is inferior or less effective than the gastric sleeve procedure; for many, it can be the right decision (it is reversible, less invasive, and other benefits when compared to other surgeries). Nonetheless, removing the production of ghrelin through a gastric sleeve surgery with Dr. Feiz can empower bariatric patients to finally lose the weight and keep it off, leading a better and healthier life.