The gastric sleeve surgery, otherwise known as vertical sleeve gastrectomy, is a popular procedure due to its effectiveness and perceived simplicity. It consists of removing a large portion of the stomach to limit the patient’s food intake, resulting in weight loss. Although the gastric sleeve is a non-reversible procedure, it can be revised to a gastric bypass if needed.
Bariatric Procedure
Gastric Sleeve
About
Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy
Improvement or resolution of serious medical conditions
Improvement in overall health and quality of life
Long term cost savings as a result of reduced medical care
How Its Done
During the operation, the surgeon will place a tube in the stomach along the inner curve. The purpose of the tube is to act as a guide. The surgeon will then staple the stomach from the lower edge to the upper edge, allowing the outer part of the stomach to be removed. This results in a tubular, or banana, shaped stomach that is 70 to 80% smaller than its original size.
Since the new stomach has a smaller volume, patients will feel full faster and consume smaller portions of food, resulting in weight loss. Additionally, since a large portion of the stomach is removed, patients can experience a reduction in hunger as the hunger-regulating hormone, ghrelin, which is produced in the stomach, is reduced.
*The tube used to size the stomach is removed after the operation.
The gastric sleeve weight loss surgery takes about 30 minutes to perform, and patients can expect to stay in the hospital for 24 to 48 hours after surgery. Depending on the type of work performed, patients will be able to return to work within 2 to 4 weeks from surgery.
Results that change lives.
Average Weight Loss
65%- 75% of excess weight loss
Diabetes Resolution
80+% patients cured of diabetes
Reduction in Medication Use
60+% free from medication
Quality of Life
100% Improvement
Potential Risks
Before considering the gastric sleeve, it is important to be familiar with the potential risks of bariatric procedures. Risks vary based on the health of the patient.
- Minor Complications
- Major Complications
Minor Complications
UNCOMMON AND CAN BE MANAGED FAIRLY EASILY
- Minor wound or skin infection
- Excess / loose skin
- Vomiting or nausea
- Acid reflux (heartburn)
- Development of gallstones or gallbladder disease
- Nutritional deficiencies as a result of food bypassing the stomach
Major Complications
COMPLICATIONS COULD RESULT IN RE-OPERATION
- Internal bleeding
- Blood clots in the legs or lungs
- Gastric leak
Gastric Sleeve FAQs
Should I get the gastric sleeve or the gastric bypass?
The gastric sleeve is less invasive than the gastric bypass. The gastric sleeve also has fewer potential complications, and patients are not faced with the ongoing issue of nutrient deficiencies. However, some patients are not candidates for the gastric sleeve procedure or have a physical condition that makes gastric bypass a better option. Your surgeon will work with you to find the best procedure based on your health history and your goals.
How much weight will I lose after gastric sleeve surgery?
Research shows that patients will lose between 65 and 75% of their excess weight. Patients who achieve greater success after gastric sleeve surgery are those individuals who follow their surgeon and dietitians' instructions and incorporate exercise into their daily activities.
How long after gastric sleeve surgery can I become pregnant?
It is often recommended to allow at least 12 to 18 months to sufficiently recover from surgery and let your hormones become balanced before becoming pregnant. Women often become much more fertile once they have lost weight and are closer to their ideal weight. Therefore, it is important to use a form of birth control to prevent pregnancy too soon after bariatric surgery.
Other Bariatric Procedures
