Sleeve Gastrectomy (Gastric Sleeve Surgery)

If you’re looking for effective and lasting weight-loss support, sleeve gastrectomy may be an option. At Banner Health, our bariatric team combines expert surgical care with lifelong support to help patients reach better health. 

What is sleeve gastrectomy? 

Sleeve gastrectomy is a surgical weight-loss procedure in which the surgeon removes a portion of the stomach to create a smaller “sleeve.” This limits how much you can eat and can reduce hunger by lowering production of ghrelin, the “hunger hormone.” The operation is also called laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) or vertical sleeve gastrectomy (VSG). According to U.S. data, this is now the most common bariatric surgery performed.   

How is the procedure performed? 

The surgery is done using minimally invasive techniques, usually through small incisions in the abdomen. 

During the procedure: 

• Small access ports are placed and the stomach is stapled and divided to remove approximately 75-80 % of its volume. 
• The remaining stomach is shaped like a tube or banana, reducing capacity and promoting rapid early satiety.   
• The patient usually spends one night in hospital and begins a recovery plan focused on diet progression and lifestyle changes. 

Because much of the stomach producing ghrelin is removed, many patients experience reduced appetite and quicker weight-loss.   

Who is a candidate for sleeve gastrectomy? 

This procedure is typically recommended when diet and exercise alone have not been sufficient and one of the following applies: 

• A body-mass index (BMI) of 40 or greater (severe obesity) 
• A BMI between 30 and 40 with at least one obesity-related condition such as type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea, high blood pressure or heart disease   

Candidates must be medically and mentally cleared and understand this is a lifelong commitment. 

Calculate your BMI here. 

Benefits of sleeve gastrectomy 

Sleeve gastrectomy offers several advantages: 

• Effective weight loss - on average patients lose 20-25 % of total body weight over two years.   
• No foreign device - unlike gastric banding, there’s no implanted band to adjust or remove.   
• Preserved nutrient absorption - because the intestines are not bypassed, the risk of certain vitamin and mineral deficiencies is lower than with some other surgeries.  
• Improvement in obesity-related conditions - many patients see reductions in blood pressure, improvement in diabetes control and better sleep.   

Risks and potential complications 

While generally safe under expert care, sleeve gastrectomy does carry risks. 

Possible complications include: 

• Staple-line leak, which can lead to infection or bleeding.   
• New or worsening heartburn or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).   
• Weight regain or insufficient weight loss if lifestyle changes are not sustained.   
• Gallstones, hernia, blood clots or nutritional shortfalls over time.   

Your bariatric team will discuss these risks in detail and help you weigh benefits and options. 

What to expect after surgery 

Recovery and after-care are critical to long-term success. 

• You’ll begin with a clear liquid diet, then move to full liquids, soft foods and eventually regular foods under guidance.   
• You’ll work with dietitians, behavioral specialists and physical-therapy staff to build healthy habits, prevent weight regain and monitor nutrients. 
• Lifelong follow-up care is essential. Your patient team will coordinate routine check-ups, lab tests and any supplement needs. 

Why choose Banner Health for bariatric care? 

At Banner Health, your bariatric journey is supported by a multidisciplinary team including surgeons, obesity medicine doctors, dietitians, behavioral health specialists and physical therapists. Our program is accredited by the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery for meeting rigorous standards of care.  

We partner with you from pre-surgery through lifelong follow-up to help you succeed, not just in losing weight, but in improving your overall quality of life. 

Take the next step: Am I a candidate?