The gastric sleeve, also known as sleeve gastrectomy, is a bariatric surgical procedure designed to help people with obesity effectively lose weight. During the surgery, approximately 80% of the stomach is removed, leaving only a small portion, which significantly reduces the stomach’s capacity to store food. This not only limits the amount of food you can eat, but also decreases the levels of a hormone called ghrelin, which regulates appetite.
The Procedure
Gastric sleeve surgery is performed under general anesthesia and is usually done laparoscopically, a minimally invasive technique. This means the surgeon makes small incisions in the abdomen to insert a camera and surgical instruments, which reduces recovery time and the risk of complications.
The surgeon removes a large portion of the stomach, and the remainder is stitched into a narrow tube shape. The process takes between one and two hours, and after the surgery, it is common to stay in the hospital for one or two days to monitor recovery.
Benefits of Gastric Sleeve Surgery
The gastric sleeve offers several significant benefits for individuals struggling with obesity:
Significant weight loss
Most patients experience considerable weight loss in the first 12–18 months after surgery.
Improvement in overall health
Many obesity-related conditions, such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol, may improve or even resolve after weight loss.
Lower risk of complications
As a less invasive procedure compared to other bariatric surgeries like gastric bypass, the gastric sleeve presents fewer long-term risks.
Improved quality of life
With weight loss and better physical health, many patients experience greater self-confidence and an improvement in their emotional and social well-being.
How to know if you are a candidate for Gastric Sleeve Surgery
Not everyone who is overweight is a candidate for gastric sleeve surgery. There are certain criteria specialists consider when evaluating if this procedure is right for you:
Body Mass Index (BMI)
Gastric sleeve surgery is generally recommended for individuals with a BMI over 40 or a BMI over 35 in cases of obesity-related comorbidities such as diabetes or hypertension.
Failure of other weight loss methods
Surgery is usually recommended when other approaches, such as diet and exercise, have not been effective in achieving sustained weight loss.
Long-term commitment
It is essential that the patient is willing to follow medical recommendations in terms of lifestyle changes and postoperative follow-up.
Comprehensive medical evaluation
A specialist doctor will need to conduct a complete analysis of your overall health to ensure the surgery is safe and suitable for you.
Gastric sleeve surgery is a safe and effective option for individuals seeking a long-term solution for obesity. If you are considering this surgery, it is important to speak with a bariatric surgeon to assess your specific situation and determine if this procedure is the best option for you.
