For severely obese patients, losing weight is not just about looking good for swimsuit season – it is about reducing mortality and regaining a higher quality of life. Dr. Michael Feiz, M.D., F.A.C.S. and his team at Dr. Feiz & Associates know that many obese patients try to lose weight, but need extra help. That’s why Dr. Feiz specializes in bariatric surgery, including Lap Band, gastric sleeve, and band to sleeve revision surgeries.

Gastric sleeve surgery, also called sleeve gastrectomy, has become one of the most popular and effective weight loss surgeries today. This procedure removes a portion of the stomach, creating a small banana-like sleeve that allows greater vitamin absorption and digestion of food, while also helping patients feel full after eating less.

While many patients choose Lap Band surgery first, some do not experience the weight loss they need or want. These patients often seek Dr. Feiz’s help with sleeve gastrectomy after Lap Band, because the more permanent procedure removes the portion of the stomach that produces ghrelin, aka the hunger hormone. Ghrelin signals the brain that the stomach is empty, so patients have a harder time eating less. Patients with Lap Bands still have the ghrelin-producing portion of their stomach, and some find that the hormone triggers them to eat more often or more unhealthy foods. Gastric sleeve surgery removes ghrelin, so patients not only feel physically full, but emotionally satisfied by smaller meals.

Dr. Feiz wants to answer your questions about Lap Band vs. gastric sleeve procedures. His thorough understanding of these surgeries, and his team’s care and experience, can help you meet your weight loss goals and improve your life.