The gastric sleeve procedure, also called sleeve gastrectomy, is a type of bariatric surgery that removes about 80% of the stomach, leaving a narrow, tube-shaped section about the size and shape of a banana. This smaller stomach holds less food, helping patients feel full faster and consume fewer calories.
In addition to physically reducing stomach size, gastric sleeve surgery also triggers beneficial hormonal changes that lower appetite and improve conditions linked to obesity, such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure.
Most gastric sleeve procedures are performed laparoscopically — using small incisions and a camera — making recovery faster and less painful compared to open surgery.
Why Is the Gastric Sleeve Procedure Performed?
Gastric sleeve surgery is primarily done to help people with severe obesity lose significant weight and reduce life-threatening, weight-related health risks, including:
- Type 2 diabetes
- Heart disease
- Hypertension (high blood pressure)
- Sleep apnea
- High cholesterol
- Infertility
- Certain types of cancer
- Stroke
This surgery is often recommended for patients who have not achieved lasting weight loss through diet, exercise, and medication.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 or higher (extreme obesity)
- BMI between 35–39.9 with serious health issues like diabetes or sleep apnea
- In select cases, BMI 30–34 with serious health problems
How the Gastric Sleeve Procedure Works
During Surgery:
- Patients are given general anesthesia.
- Surgeons make several small incisions in the abdomen.
- A laparoscopic camera and surgical instruments are inserted.
- About 80% of the stomach is removed, and the remainder is stapled into a narrow sleeve.
- The surgery typically takes 60–90 minutes.
Post-Surgery Recovery:
- Hospital stay: 1–2 days.
- Initial diet: Sugar-free liquids for 7 days, then pureed foods for 3 weeks, followed by a transition to solid foods around 4 weeks post-op.
- Long-term supplements: Multivitamins, calcium, vitamin B-12 injections may be necessary for life.
Benefits of Gastric Sleeve Surgery
Significant Weight Loss: Patients typically lose 60–70% of their excess weight within 1–2 years.
Improvement or resolution of obesity-related health conditions.
No intestinal rerouting (unlike gastric bypass), meaning fewer long-term nutritional complications.
Lower risk compared to more complex bariatric surgeries.
Faster recovery due to minimally invasive techniques.
Risks and Possible Complications
As with any major surgery, gastric sleeve surgery carries some risks, including:
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Blood clots
- Leaks from the staple line
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
- Nutrient deficiencies
- Gallstones due to rapid weight loss
Long-term success requires strict lifestyle changes, including healthy eating, regular exercise, and ongoing medical follow-up.
What to Expect After Gastric Sleeve Surgery
First 3 to 6 Months:
Rapid weight loss
Possible side effects: fatigue, dry skin, hair thinning, mood changes
1 to 2 Years Post-Op:
Average weight loss of 25–30% of body weight
Improvement or remission of obesity-related conditions
Long-Term:
Lifelong vitamin supplementation
Risk of weight regain if lifestyle habits are not maintained
Some patients may need revisional surgery if issues arise
Final Thoughts
The gastric sleeve procedure offers a powerful, safe, and effective solution for individuals struggling with severe obesity and its related health problems. It requires a lifelong commitment to healthy living but offers life-changing benefits for those ready to embrace the change.
If you are considering gastric sleeve surgery, consult a specialized bariatric surgeon to determine if it’s the right choice for your weight loss journey.
Frequantly Asked Questions
Most patients lose 60% to 70% of their excess weight within 12 to 24 months after surgery.
Yes. The procedure is irreversible because the removed portion of the stomach is permanently gone.
Absolutely. Patients must adhere to a structured diet plan, starting with liquids and slowly transitioning to solids. Ongoing healthy eating habits are crucial for long-term success.
In many cases, type 2 diabetes improves significantly or goes into remission after gastric sleeve surgery, often within months.
