For those battling obesity, gastric sleeve surgery can be life-changing. Here is what the procedure involves and who it is for.
If you have struggled with diets, exercise plans, or weight loss medications, you are not alone.
Gastric sleeve surgery, or sleeve gastrectomy, is one of the most effective surgical treatments for people struggling with severe obesity.
It reduces the size of your stomach, helps control hunger, and leads to significant weight loss over time. This means a lower risk of diseases linked to excess body fat, such as diabetes and heart disease.
What Is a Gastric Sleeve Surgery?
Gastric sleeve surgery is a form of bariatric surgery that reshapes the stomach into a narrow tube, or “sleeve.”
During the process, about 75 to 80 percent of the stomach is removed, leaving a smaller pouch that can hold less food. The change also affects hunger-related hormones like ghrelin, helping patients eat less and feel full sooner.
Many people who consider this operation often struggle to understand the different procedures available or which one best fits their needs. Exploring your gastric sleeve surgery options can help you learn about the specific techniques, risks, and recovery expectations involved, so you can make a more confident decision with your surgeon.
This method differs from other weight-loss surgeries like gastric bypass or duodenal switch, which involve rerouting parts of the digestive tract. The sleeve focuses only on reducing stomach size, making it simpler while still producing strong, lasting results.
How the Procedure Is Performed
To perform a sleeve gastrectomy, surgeons use general anaesthesia and make small incisions in the abdomen. A laparoscope, which is a thin tube with a camera, is inserted to guide the procedure. The surgeon removes most of the stomach and seals the rest with a staple line, forming a narrow, sleeve-shaped pouch.
Most surgeries take one to two hours. Patients usually stay in the hospital for one or two nights and can return to normal activities within four to six weeks, depending on their recovery speed.
Benefits of Gastric Sleeve Surgery
The gastric sleeve is known for its strong and lasting results. According to the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS), patients typically lose about 60% of their excess body weight within two years.
This surgery can also improve or resolve several health conditions, including:
- Type 2 diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Sleep apnoea
- Heart disease
- Acid reflux
Beyond physical health, many patients report higher energy levels, improved mood, and better confidence. These changes truly make long-term lifestyle improvements easier to maintain.
Risks and Possible Complications
Although gastric sleeve surgery is considered safe, it still carries risks. Short-term issues may include bleeding, infection, or blood clots. Long-term complications can involve acid reflux, dumping syndrome, or vitamin deficiencies if patients do not follow post-surgery nutrition plans.
Staying in close contact with the bariatric care team and following their guidance on diet, supplements, and physical activity helps reduce these risks and support long-term success.
Who is Eligible for Gastric Sleeve Surgery?
The ASMBS and National Institutes of Health recommend gastric sleeve surgery for adults who:
- Have a Body Mass Index (BMI) >40
- Have BMI ≥35 and also suffer from conditions such as Type 2 diabetes, sleep apnoea, or high blood pressure
Candidates also undergo medical and psychological evaluations to ensure they are ready for surgery and capable of maintaining lifelong habits like balanced eating, portion control, and routine checkups.
When Surgery May Not Be Recommended
Some patients may not qualify right away. Doctors may delay or deny surgery if the person has:
- Untreated depression or anxiety
- Alcohol or substance misuse
- Severe heart or digestive issues
In such cases, medical teams often suggest addressing these conditions first. Once stabilised, patients can then be re-evaluated for surgery.
Life After Gastric Sleeve Surgery
The recovery period requires patience and gradual adjustment. After surgery, patients follow a phased diet: starting with clear liquids, then soft or pureed foods, and eventually small solid meals. This process allows the stomach to heal while helping patients learn healthy eating habits.
Long-term success depends on consistent effort. Patients need to:
- Eat slowly and stop when full
- Prioritise protein-rich, nutrient-dense foods
- Take vitamin supplements – supplements such as vitamin B12, iron, and calcium are often necessary
- Stay physically active
Regular follow-ups with healthcare providers are key for tracking weight loss and preventing complications.
Gastric Sleeve vs Other Bariatric Procedures
Compared with gastric bypass and duodenal switch, the sleeve offers a balance between effectiveness and simplicity.
Gastric bypass involves rerouting food through part of the small intestine, leading to reduced calorie absorption.
The duodenal switch combines the sleeve with a more extensive intestinal bypass, which can produce greater weight loss but carries higher nutritional risks.
The sleeve procedure does not alter the intestines. It is purely restrictive, meaning it limits how much food can be eaten at once. While it may not be ideal for patients with severe acid reflux, it’s often chosen for its lower complication rate and steady, predictable outcomes.
Gastric Sleeve Surgery Can Be Life-Changing
Gastric sleeve surgery provides a proven way for people with severe obesity to lose weight and improve overall health. By permanently reducing stomach size and controlling hunger, it promotes steady, long-term progress.
Eligibility depends on factors such as BMI, related health conditions, and readiness to maintain new habits. With professional care and ongoing commitment, the gastric sleeve can help patients achieve lasting results and enjoy a healthier, more active life.
