Gastric Sleeve Surgery

Estimated reading time: 6 minutes and 15 seconds

Gastric sleeve surgery, or sleeve gastrectomy, is a surgical procedure that reduces the size of the stomach and limits the amount of food a person can eat. It is a highly effective weight loss procedure that has helped many people achieve their weight loss goals. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about sleeve gastrectomy surgery.

Gastric Sleeve
Gastric Sleeve

What is Gastric Sleeve Surgery (Sleeve Gastrectomy)?

Gastric sleeve surgery, also known as vertical sleeve gastrectomy or sleeve gastrectomy, is a surgical weight loss procedure in which a portion of the stomach is removed, leaving a small, banana-shaped sleeve. This sleeve-shaped stomach limits the amount of food a person can eat, leading to weight loss.

How is Gastric Sleeve Surgery Performed?

Sleeve gastrectomy surgery is performed under general anesthesia. During the procedure, the surgeon makes small incisions in the abdomen and inserts a laparoscope, which is a thin, flexible tube with a camera attached. The surgeon then removes approximately 75% of the stomach, leaving a small sleeve-shaped stomach.

Who is a Candidate for Gastric Sleeve Surgery?

When considering gastric sleeve surgery, it is crucial to identify the ideal candidates for this weight-loss procedure. Generally, individuals with a body mass index (BMI) above 40 or a BMI between 35 and 40 with obesity-related comorbidities such as diabetes, hypertension, or sleep apnea are potential candidates.

However, every case is unique, and a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional is necessary to determine suitability. Successful candidates for sleeve gastrectomy are typically individuals who have previously attempted traditional weight-loss methods without significant or sustainable results. This procedure serves as a valuable tool to kick-start their weight-loss journey and improve their overall health.

Commitment to long-term lifestyle changes is a crucial aspect of being an ideal candidate for sleeve gastrectomy surgery. Candidates should demonstrate a willingness to adopt healthier eating habits, engage in regular physical activity, and comply with post-surgery guidelines provided by their healthcare team. While the procedure can contribute to significant weight loss, maintaining the results requires a sustained commitment to a healthy lifestyle.

A comprehensive assessment of the candidate’s overall health, including medical history, physical examinations, and diagnostic tests, is also necessary to ensure the suitability and safety of sleeve gastrectomy surgery. Consulting with a healthcare professional is essential to determine whether this procedure is the right choice for an individual’s unique circumstances.

Gastric Sleeve Before - After
Gastric Sleeve Before - After

What are the Benefits of Gastric Sleeve Surgery?

The benefits of sleeve gastrectomy surgery include significant weight loss, improvement or resolution of obesity-related health conditions, such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and sleep apnea, and improved quality of life.

What are the Risks of Sleeve Gastrectomy Surgery?

As with any surgical procedure, gastric sleeve surgery carries some risks, including bleeding, infection, blood clots, and complications from anesthesia. There is also a risk of long-term complications, such as malnutrition and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

What is the Recovery Time for Sleeve Gastrectomy?

Most people can return to work and normal activities within 2-3 weeks after sleeve gastrectomy surgery. However, it is important to follow your surgeon’s instructions regarding diet and exercise to ensure proper healing.

Gastric Sleeve Surgery
Gastric Sleeve Surgery

How Much Weight Can I Expect to Lose After Gastric Sleeve Surgery?

The amount of weight you can expect to lose after gastric sleeve surgery varies depending on your individual circumstances. On average, people lose approximately 60-70% of their excess weight within the first year after surgery.

What Should I Expect During the Pre-Surgery Process?

During the pre-surgery process, you will undergo a comprehensive evaluation to determine if you are a candidate for sleeve gastrectomy surgery. This may include physical exams, blood tests, imaging tests, and consultations with your surgeon, nutritionist, and other healthcare providers.

How Much Does Gastric Sleeve Surgery Cost?

The cost of sleeve gastrectomy surgery varies depending on the hospital and the country where the surgery is performed. At Aktif International Hospital, we offer competitive pricing for sleeve gastrectomy surgery, and we work with our patients to help them understand the costs and financing options.

Is Sleeve Gastrectomy Surgery Covered by Insurance?

Sleeve gastrectomy surgery may be covered by insurance, depending on your insurance plan and the country where you live. At Aktif International Hospital, we work with our patients to help them understand their insurance coverage and navigate the insurance process.

What Should I Expect During the Post-Surgery Process?

After sleeve gastrectomy surgery, you will need to follow a strict diet and exercise plan to ensure proper healing and to achieve the best results. Your surgeon and nutritionist will provide you with detailed instructions on what to eat and how to exercise, as well as how to manage any post-operative pain or discomfort.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, sleeve gastrectomy surgery is not reversible.

Yes, you will need to take vitamin and mineral supplements to ensure you are getting the nutrients you need.

No, you will need to follow a strict diet plan and avoid certain foods, such as high-calorie and high-fat foods.

It is recommended to avoid alcohol after sleeve gastrectomy surgery, as it can increase the risk of complications and interfere with weight loss.

Most people start to see significant weight loss within the first few months after surgery.

Yes, you will have small scars from the incisions, but they will fade over time.

Most people can return to work within 2-3 weeks after surgery.

Yes, sleeve gastrectomy surgery can be combined with other weight loss procedures, such as gastric bypass surgery, in some cases.

Not following the recommended diet and exercise plan can lead to complications and may reduce the effectiveness of the surgery.

 

Sleeve gastrectomy surgery is a highly effective weight loss procedure that has helped many people achieve their weight loss goals and improve their health. If you are considering sleeve gastrectomy surgery, it is important to consult with a qualified and experienced surgeon and to understand the risks and benefits of the procedure. At Aktif International Hospital, we offer state-of-the-art sleeve gastrectomy surgery and comprehensive pre- and post-operative care to help you achieve your weight loss goals and improve your quality of life.

For more information about this surgery, please visit the websites of our doctors listed below:

Mehmet Fatih Korkmaz – Gastric Bypass Surgery

İbrahim Ağaçkıran – Sleeve Gastrectomy

Cihan Şahan – Sleeve Gastrectomy