Is the Sleeve Gastrectomy worth getting with a low BMI?

Question

I am considering getting the sleeve gastrectomy done. Im 37 yrs old, 5'7 and about 220 pounds. I've tried all kinds of diets and appetite suppressants. My dr wants me to take blood pressure medication and my knees are horrible. I feel like all the weight I have gained in the past 5 yrs is taking its toll. My goal weight is 160/170. Will I be able to lose that much or get close to it with the sleeve? I used the calculator and it says I would only lose about 36 pounds

Hasan Erdem, MD · Answer

Hello,
Thanks for your question
Your body mass index is 34.6. You are now on the 2nd class obesity limit. Sleeve gastrectomy surgery is suitable for you. When you lose weight, you probably won't need blood pressure medication and the weight on your knees will decrease. It's going to be easier to do sports.
 I wish you a healthy day.
Dr HE

Ali Solmaz, MD · Answer

At 5'7" and 220 lbs, your BMI is about 34.5, which is on the lower end for bariatric surgery but still within the range where it can be beneficial, especially considering your high blood pressure and knee issues. While some calculators estimate around 36 lbs of weight loss, real-world results can vary significantly. Many people in your BMI range lose 50-60 lbs with the gastric sleeve, especially with a strong commitment to diet and exercise.
Your goal of 160-170 lbs is realistic, but whether you reach it depends on factors like metabolism, adherence to dietary guidelines, and physical activity. Since you've struggled with diets and appetite suppressants, the sleeve could give you the tool you need to control portion sizes and reset your hunger cues.
The main question is whether the benefits outweigh the risks for you. The sleeve is permanent and removes about 75-80% of your stomach, but it can improve your quality of life, ease joint pain, and reduce the need for blood pressure meds. If your weight gain has been affecting your health and lifestyle, it could be a worthwhile decision

Pablo Garcia, MD · Answer

Hello, I hope you are well. Based on the metric you provided your calculated BMI is 34.5, which classifies you as Obese type I. In order to determine your eligibility for bariatric surgery you would need to be evaluated by a certifid bariatric surgeon. However, based on your difficulties with your weight loss journey, BMI and comorbid diseases, it is very likely you would qualify for a gastric sleeve. Hope this answer was useful. Do not hesitate to contact us if other quesions come up.

Salvador Ramirez, MD · Answer

Hello. With a BMI of 34.5, the gastric sleeve is a good option for you. It will limit the amount of food you eat, so it will help you lose weight. And with the weight loss some of the other problems you have, like hypertension and knee pain may improve. 
We've seen very good outcomes with gastric sleeve on patients with the same BMI as you.

Mark Pleatman, MD (retired) · Answer

I do many sleeves for patients with BMI below 35 who just want to lose weight.  The procedure works; most patients get very close to or even below their ideal weight.  It is a personal decision that you make to have an irreversible operation with real risk, in order to reach your goal.I notice that some patients consider sleeve gastrectomy to be "similar" to "endoscopic sleeve."  It is not.  Endoscopic sleeve is an attempt to create a tubular stomach, but it is not a real sleeve.  It is definitely a temporary procedure, and will undo itself within a year or two.  It can be repeated, but it gets expensive to have it done every few years.  Risks are about the same as for a real sleeve.  It requires general anesthesia, and there have been leaks, bleeding, and perforation.  Cost is not much less.I do sleeve gastrectomy for self-pay patients, and our total charge is $11,200.  This includes hospital, anesthesia, and the surgical fee.

Is the Sleeve Gastrectomy worth getting with a low BMI?

Answers (5)

Answer: Sleeve is ok for you

Answer: Sleeve is ok for you

Answer: Sleeve gastrectomy for low BMI is not covered by insurance, but it works.

Answer: Sleeve gastrectomy for low BMI is not covered by insurance, but it works.

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Is the Sleeve Gastrectomy worth getting with a low BMI?

Answers (5)

Answer: Sleeve is ok for you

Answer: Sleeve is ok for you

Answer: Sleeve gastrectomy for low BMI is not covered by insurance, but it works.

Answer: Sleeve gastrectomy for low BMI is not covered by insurance, but it works.

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Gastric Sleeve Surgery

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.