What is gastric sleeve surgery?

Gastric sleeve surgery, also known as sleeve gastrectomy or vertical sleeve gastrectomy, is a surgical procedure designed to aid in weight loss for individuals struggling with obesity. During the procedure, a portion of the stomach is permanently removed, resulting in a smaller stomach size and reduced food intake capacity.

Here’s an overview of the gastric sleeve surgery process:

1. Preparation: Before the surgery, patients typically undergo a thorough evaluation by a healthcare team, which may include a surgeon, dietitian, psychologist, and other specialists. This evaluation helps assess the patient’s eligibility for surgery and ensures they understand the risks and benefits.
2. Surgery: Gastric sleeve surgery is usually performed laparoscopically, using small incisions and a camera (laparoscope) to guide the surgeon. During the procedure, about 75-80% of the stomach is removed, leaving behind a narrow tube or “sleeve” resembling the shape of a banana. The smaller stomach size limits the amount of food that can be consumed, leading to reduced calorie intake.
3. Recovery: Following surgery, patients typically spend a few days in the hospital for monitoring and recovery. During this time, they are gradually transitioned to a liquid diet and instructed on post-operative care, including dietary guidelines, physical activity recommendations, and potential complications to watch for.
4. Long-term lifestyle changes: Gastric sleeve surgery is not a quick fix for weight loss but rather a tool to help individuals achieve and maintain a healthier weight. Long-term success depends on adopting permanent lifestyle changes, including a nutritious diet, regular exercise, behavior modification, and ongoing medical follow-up.

Benefits of gastric sleeve surgery may include significant weight loss, improvement or resolution of obesity-related health conditions (such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and sleep apnea), and enhanced quality of life.

However, it’s essential to understand that all surgical procedures carry risks, and success depends on individual factors such as commitment to lifestyle changes, adherence to medical recommendations, and ongoing support from healthcare providers. Therefore, patients considering gastric sleeve surgery should thoroughly discuss their options with a qualified healthcare professional to determine the most suitable treatment plan for their needs.