Sleeve Gastrectomy

What is a Sleeve Gastrectomy?

Sleeve gastrectomy, also sometimes referred to as a vertical sleeve gastrectomy, is a type of surgical weight loss. This procedure is performed laparoscopically, which means it involves inserting small instruments through incisions in the upper abdomen. This type of surgery removes about 80 percent of the stomach, leaving about 15 percent of the stomach – about the size and shape of a banana.

A sleeve gastrectomy procedure limits the amount of food you are able to consume and prompts a hormonal change that helps patients lose weight and reduce the risk of other potentially life-threatening health problems.

What to Expect from a Sleeve Gastrectomy

Sleeve gastrectomy is a common and quick procedure. Some important things patients should know before undergoing sleeve gastrectomy include:

• Sleeve gastrectomy is generally considered a quicker surgery that only requires 1-2 days in the hospital.
• Patients should expect to take 1-2 weeks off work to recover at home after the surgery.
• Eating after surgery will require portion control. Your doctor can provide a better idea of the portion sizes you should be consuming after a sleeve gastrectomy.
• Patients can expect to lose anywhere between 55 to 70 percent of their body weight over the course of two years after a sleeve gastrectomy.

After Sleeve Gastrectomy Surgery

Sleeve gastrectomy is a lifelong commitment. In order to make the most of it and live your best life possible, we will support you with follow-up appointments with your doctor, nurse practitioner, behavioral health specialist, exercise specialist and dietitian on a long-term basis. Generally, appointments are more frequent in the first year after surgery and become more spaced out, but remain consistent, in years 1-5.

We will also help you create nutrition and fitness habits so you can sustain long-term weight loss.

Learn more about recovery and the post-surgery journey.

Pros and Cons of Gastrectomy Surgery

For patients who have a number of health risks, sleeve gastrectomy surgery is safe and offers many advantages, including:

• Lower risk of ulcers compared to gastric bypass
• Openings are left intact, so normal digestion occurs
• Reduced stimulations to the brain that indicate hunger from the ghrelin hormone
• The body is free of foreign objects, as opposed to the LAP-BAND surgery

However, as with any surgery or anesthesia, there are always certain risks involved, such as:

• Blood clots, blockages or leaks
• Bowel blockage
• Hernia, holes or sores
• Gallstones and gallbladder disease
• Nausea or vomiting from certain foods
• If you overeat, the smaller portion of the stomach may stretch

Our world-renowned staff is dedicated to making your sleeve gastrectomy experience as comfortable and as safe as possible. We’re here to help you live your healthier and happiest life.