There are also horror stories related to long - term nutritional deficiencies. Since the gastric sleeve reduces the size of the stomach, patients can't eat as much as before. This often leads to a lack of essential nutrients such as vitamins and minerals. Some patients end up with anemia because they can't absorb enough iron, or they develop bone problems due to a lack of calcium. Over time, these deficiencies can cause a whole host of health problems like fatigue, weakness, and brittle bones.
Some horror stories might include issues like improper medical facilities. For example, some patients have reported going to clinics in Mexico that seemed unclean or not up to standard. There could also be problems with unqualified surgeons. In some cases, patients faced post - surgery complications that were not properly managed due to lack of proper medical resources or expertise in the Mexican facilities they chose.
Well, some people experience excessive bleeding during or after the gastric sleeve surgery. This can be very dangerous and might need immediate medical attention. Also, there can be problems with the anesthesia, like allergic reactions or other complications that can put the patient's life at risk. And then there's the issue of long - term digestive problems. Some patients end up with chronic nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
There's Mary who opted for gastric sleeve. She was always self - conscious about her weight. Post - surgery, she noticed a significant reduction in her appetite. She focused on eating high - protein foods and lots of vegetables. In a year, she dropped from a size 20 to a size 12. She's more confident and active now, even joining a local hiking club.
One success story is of a man who had been struggling with obesity for years. After getting the gastric sleeve in Mexico, he lost a significant amount of weight. He was able to stop taking medications for high blood pressure and diabetes. His energy levels increased, and he could now participate in activities like hiking which he couldn't do before.
The complication rates vary. Leakage, for example, occurs in about 1 - 3% of cases. Nutritional deficiencies can be quite common in the long run if proper supplementation isn't followed, maybe in around 20 - 30% of patients over a few years. Bleeding during surgery is less common, around 1 - 2% of surgeries.
Some people have reported psychological issues after gastric sleeve surgery. They may develop body dysmorphia because they don't see the expected results quickly enough. They might also feel guilty about eating, even small amounts, which can lead to an unhealthy relationship with food. For instance, a patient might avoid social situations where food is involved, fearing that they'll be judged for what they eat or how much they eat, which can have a negative impact on their mental health.
One success story is of a man named Jack. He had been overweight for most of his adult life. The gastric sleeve surgery was a turning point for him. He worked with a nutritionist to plan his meals. He ate more protein - rich foods and vegetables. Along with the diet changes, he incorporated exercise into his daily routine. He started with light workouts and then moved on to more intense ones. His body transformed, and he became more confident. His success story is an encouragement for other men considering gastric sleeve surgery.
One common element is following the post - surgery diet plan. Most people who have successful gastric sleeve stories adhered to what the doctors recommended in terms of food intake. Another is regular exercise. People started being more active after the surgery which contributed to their weight loss. Also, having a good support system, like family and friends, is crucial. They can encourage and help with the lifestyle changes.
Research is key. Check the accreditation of the medical facility and the surgeon. Look for reviews from previous patients. Make sure the place has proper medical equipment and a clean environment.
Many women with PCOS who have had gastric sleeve surgery report improved fertility. For example, some who had difficulty conceiving before the surgery were able to get pregnant after significant weight loss. This is because PCOS often affects fertility, and losing weight through gastric sleeve can help regulate hormones related to reproduction.