Gastric Sleeve Surgery
A sleeve gastrectomy is a weight-loss surgery that removes most of the stomach, creating a narrow tube-like structure. This procedure is typically done laparoscopically, using small instruments and making several small incisions in the upper abdomen. After the surgery, the remaining stomach will be about the size and shape of a banana.
Sleeve gastrectomy works to help you lose weight by reducing the size of your stomach, which means you will be able to eat less food. Additionally, this type of surgery prompts hormonal changes that aid in weight loss and also help to improve conditions often linked to being overweight, such as high blood pressure or heart disease.
Why it’s done
Sleeve gastrectomy can assist with significant weight loss and reduce the risk of weight-related health issues, including:
- Heart disease and stroke
- High blood pressure
- Type 2 diabetes
- High cholesterol
- Cancer
- Infertility
- Obstructive sleep apnea
Who it’s for
Your physicians may recommend you to go for sleeve gastrectomy if:
- Your BMI is ≥ 40, termed as extreme obesity.
- Your BMI is between 35 – 39.9, termed as obesity, and you’ve serious health issues linked with weight, for instance, hypertension, type 2 diabetes, or severe sleep apnea.
To prepare for a sleeve gastrectomy, patients must meet certain clinical criteria and may be required to undergo intensive screening. In addition, patients need to be willing to make long-term changes to their lifestyle to achieve and maintain good health after the procedure. After the surgery, patients may also need to attend follow-up appointments to monitor their diet, lifestyle, and overall health.
Pre-Op Guidelines
The team at Nova Bariatrics will provide you with information and guidance on the procedure and what to expect. You may undergo certain exams and laboratory tests before the surgery and may be required to change your diet, fluid intake, and medications. It is important to also plan for post-op recovery, such as arranging for support at home for any necessary assistance.
Maintaining Weight Loss Results Post-Surgery
You will experience significant weight loss after your gastric sleeve surgery due to a reduction in stomach size. This, in turn, will lead to rapid weight loss in the initial few months. However, you must couple lifestyle changes post-procedure to maintain the results and stop weight regain. Here are some tips our experts swear by:
- Developing healthy eating habits: Adding more protein to your diet can yield a substantial amount of weight loss. It is crucial to maintain your muscle mass, which boosts metabolism and keeps weight off.
- Maintaining an exercise routine: Our experts recommend adding strength training and reducing cardio to your regime daily to maintain weight loss post-surgery. Incorporating weight lifting helps gain muscle, which is beneficial.
- Monitor progress: After we perform your gastric sleeve surgery, keep a journal to maintain your weight loss journey. Keeping a food, weight, and exercise check can help you identify any areas where you may need changes.
- Keeping in touch with our team: Our bariatric surgical team is here to support and guide you in every aspect post-surgery to maintain your weight loss.
- Staying motivated and consistent with your efforts: Engage in new fitness tips and gather healthy recipes for weight loss inspiration. However, our bariatric surgeons suggest setting realistic goals and tracking progress so that you stay positive and make healthy living enjoyable.
What You Can Expect
While some sleeve gastrectomies are performed with a traditional large incision in the abdomen, the procedure is usually done laparoscopically using small instruments and multiple small incisions in the upper abdomen. During the surgery, the surgeon creates a narrow sleeve-shaped stomach by stapling it vertically and removing most of it.
The procedure will take one to two hours, and upon waking up, you will be in a recovery room where medical staff will closely monitor you for any potential complications. Your doctor may recommend that you remain in the hospital for a few days.
Results
Sleeve gastrectomies can provide a lasting solution for weight loss, and the amount of weight loss can vary depending on the changes made to your lifestyle. These procedures can potentially help you lose 60% or more of excess weight within a two-year period.
Sleeve gastrectomy can also help improve or treat health conditions linked to excessive weight, including:
- Obstructive sleep apnea
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Heart disease
- Type 2 diabetes
- Infertility
If you want to lose weight and achieve a healthy lifestyle, consider scheduling a consultation with our Bariatric surgeon, Dr. Alibhai.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is gastric sleeve surgery?
Gastric sleeve surgery, or sleeve gastrectomy, is a weight-loss procedure that removes about 80% of the stomach to create a narrow, tube-shaped “sleeve.” This smaller stomach limits how much you can eat and reduces hunger-regulating hormones. At Nova Bariatrics, the procedure is performed laparoscopically through several small incisions in the upper abdomen.
How much weight can I lose with a gastric sleeve?
Gastric sleeve patients lose approximately 60% of their excess body weight on average within 12 to 18 months of surgery. Results vary by individual and depend on following the recommended diet, exercise, and follow-up plan provided by the Nova Bariatrics team.
How long is recovery after gastric sleeve surgery?
Most gastric sleeve patients stay in the hospital for one to two nights and return to normal daily activities within two to four weeks. Because the surgery is minimally invasive, downtime is shorter than with open procedures. Dr. Alibhai provides each patient with a personalized recovery and diet-progression plan.
Is gastric sleeve surgery reversible?
No — gastric sleeve surgery is permanent because the removed portion of the stomach cannot be restored. Patients who do not reach their goals or who experience complications may be candidates for revision surgery, which Nova Bariatrics offers.
What can I eat after gastric sleeve surgery?
After gastric sleeve surgery, you progress through stages — clear liquids, then full liquids, pureed foods, and finally solid foods — over several weeks. This staged diet allows the stomach to heal and helps you adjust to smaller portions. Nova Bariatrics dietitians guide you through each phase.
Who is a good candidate for the gastric sleeve?
Good candidates for the gastric sleeve typically have a BMI of 40 or higher, or 35 or higher with an obesity-related health condition, and prefer a procedure that does not reroute the intestines. A consultation with Dr. Alibhai at Nova Bariatrics determines whether the sleeve is the right option for you.