What Is Sleeve Gastrectomy?
- Revenant Clinic
- Jul 30
- 3 min read
Sleeve gastrectomy is a surgical weight loss procedure that reduces the size of the stomach by approximately 80%, leaving it much smaller and narrower. This helps decrease hunger by reducing the production of ghrelin, the hormone responsible for appetite. These hormonal changes can also improve obesity-related conditions such as high blood pressure and heart disease.
Who Is a Candidate for This Procedure?
According to international guidelines, sleeve gastrectomy is generally recommended for patients who: have a Body Mass Index (BMI) over 40, or have a BMI over 35 along with obesity-related medical conditions.
Why Is Sleeve Gastrectomy Performed?
The procedure is designed to help patients lose excess weight and reduce the risk of serious health conditions associated with obesity, including:
Heart disease
High blood pressure
High cholesterol
Obstructive sleep apnea
Type 2 diabetes
Stroke
Certain types of cancer
Infertility
Preparing for Sleeve Gastrectomy
Psychological Evaluation
A comprehensive psychological assessment is an important part of the preparation process. The psychologist will evaluate the patient's reasons for pursuing surgery, as well as their personal, social, and mental health history. The evaluation also assesses the patient's ability to adopt the significant dietary and lifestyle changes required both before and after surgery.
Physical and Nutritional Preparation
Patients receive a personalized nutrition plan and exercise program designed to optimize their overall health before surgery. The goal is to ensure the body is well prepared for the procedure and the lifestyle changes that follow.
During the Procedure
You will receive general anesthesia before surgery.
Sleeve gastrectomy is typically performed laparoscopically, using specialized instruments inserted through several small incisions in the upper abdomen.
The procedure usually takes 1 to 2 hours. After surgery, you will recover in a recovery room where the medical team will closely monitor your condition and provide the necessary care.
Results
Most patients can expect to lose approximately 60% or more of their excess body weight within two years.
Long-term weight loss depends on maintaining healthy lifestyle habits. Following the recommended nutrition plan, taking prescribed vitamin and mineral supplements, and staying physically active are essential for achieving lasting results.
Benefits
Performed laparoscopically, resulting in minimal scarring and a faster, safer recovery compared to traditional open surgery.
Helps patients feel full sooner while eating smaller portions.
One of the most effective and safest surgical treatments for patients with a BMI over 40.
Significantly improves many obesity-related metabolic conditions, with remission or improvement in more than 80% of cases.
Promotes sustained long-term weight loss when combined with proper nutritional follow-up.
Improves mobility, daily functioning, quality of life, and self-confidence.
Possible Disadvantages
Because the stomach is significantly smaller, eating too quickly or swallowing large, poorly chewed pieces of food may cause discomfort or vomiting. Learning to eat slowly and chew food thoroughly is essential.
During the first three to six months, as your body adjusts to rapid weight loss, you may experience:
Fatigue
Feeling cold
Dry skin
Hair thinning or hair loss
Mood changes
When Weight Loss Surgery Does Not Produce the Expected Results
Some patients may not lose the expected amount of weight after surgery. In most cases, this occurs when the recommended lifestyle changes are not maintained.
For example, regularly consuming high-calorie snacks may limit weight loss or lead to weight regain. Maintaining a balanced diet and engaging in regular physical activity are essential for long-term success.
Attending all scheduled follow-up appointments is equally important so your healthcare team can monitor your progress and provide ongoing support.
Approximately 3 out of 10 patients may regain weight within five years after sleeve gastrectomy. This is because surgery is not a permanent cure, but rather a tool that supports long-term weight management. If healthy habits are not maintained, the stomach may gradually stretch over time, allowing larger food portions and contributing to weight regain.
REMEMBER... Obesity is a chronic disease that can lead to numerous serious health conditions and significantly affect quality of life. It increases the risk of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, among many other complications. Treating obesity is an important step toward improving both overall health and long-term well-being.
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