Gastric sleeve surgery, a type of bariatric surgery, is a method to address obesity by reducing the size of the stomach. This procedure typically results in rapid weight loss.
Also known as a vertical sleeve gastrectomy, gastric sleeve surgery is usually performed minimally invasively using a laparoscope. This involves inserting a thin tube with lights, a camera, and surgical instruments into the abdomen through small incisions. The surgery is conducted under general anesthesia, which induces a deep sleep and requires a ventilator for breathing.
During the procedure, the stomach is divided into two sections. Approximately 80% of the outer curve of the stomach is removed, leaving a banana-shaped stomach that is about 25% of its original size. The operation typically lasts around an hour. Afterward, you will spend about an hour in the recovery room before waking up from anesthesia.
The small abdominal incisions heal quickly, and the minimally invasive nature of the surgery allows for a faster recovery compared to traditional open surgery. If there are no complications, you can expect to leave the hospital within 2-3 days.
Significant weight loss can enhance your quality of life and simplify many daily activities. Additionally, it reduces the risk of several obesity-related diseases, such as:
Type 2 diabetes
High cholesterol (hyperlipidemia)
High blood pressure (hypertension)
Obstructive sleep apnea
Bariatric surgery, including gastric sleeve surgery, is considered only after serious attempts at diet, exercise, and weight-loss medications have failed. Eligibility is based on body mass index (BMI) and the presence of obesity-related health conditions.
Morbid obesity (BMI > 40)
Obesity (BMI 35-39) with at least one significant obesity-related health condition
In some instances, individuals who are overweight but do not meet the criteria for obesity may qualify for the surgery if they have significant weight-related health issues.
Before undergoing gastric sleeve surgery, you must commit to certain lifestyle changes recommended by your surgeon to achieve and maintain weight loss. One key change is adopting a healthier diet for life.
Your surgeon will provide specific dietary guidelines before and after the surgery. Here’s a general outline of the dietary changes you might expect:
Two weeks before surgery: Increase protein intake, reduce carbohydrates, and eliminate sugar from your diet.
Two days before surgery and the first week after surgery: Consume only clear, non-caffeinated, non-carbonated liquids.
Next three weeks: Introduce pureed foods into your diet.
One month after surgery: Transition to a normal, healthy diet, but in smaller portions since you will feel full sooner and your hunger will be reduced.
To prevent nutritional deficiencies due to the restricted diet, it is crucial to take supplements such as multivitamins, calcium, and monthly B-12 shots as recommended by your surgeon.
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