Sleeve Gastrectomy: Pros, Cons, and What to Expect
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- Sleeve Gastrectomy: Pros, Cons, and What to Expect
Obesity has become one of the most pressing health challenges worldwide, affecting both physical and emotional well-being. For individuals who have struggled with weight loss through diet and exercise, bariatric surgery offers a powerful tool for long-term change. Among the various surgical options available, sleeve gastrectomy—also known as gastric sleeve surgery—has gained popularity for its effectiveness, simplicity, and lower risk profile compared to other weight-loss surgeries.
Dr. Prashanth, a leading GI and bariatric surgeon in Hyderabad, has helped hundreds of patients transform their lives through safe and minimally invasive weight-loss procedures like sleeve gastrectomy. With the right guidance, preparation, and commitment, this surgery can lead to sustained weight loss and a dramatic improvement in obesity-related health conditions.
In this blog, we’ll take a comprehensive look at sleeve gastrectomy: how it works, its benefits and drawbacks, and what you can expect before, during, and after the procedure. Whether you’re considering this surgery or just exploring options, this guide will help you make an informed decision.
What Is Sleeve Gastrectomy?
Sleeve gastrectomy is a restrictive bariatric procedure that involves removing approximately 75–80% of the stomach. What remains is a narrow, tube-shaped section of the stomach that resembles a banana or “sleeve.” This drastically reduces the amount of food the stomach can hold, helping patients feel full much faster and consume fewer calories.
Unlike gastric bypass surgery, the intestines are not rerouted. This makes sleeve gastrectomy a simpler and less invasive option, while still offering significant weight loss results.
How Does It Help With Weight Loss?
Sleeve gastrectomy promotes weight loss in two key ways:
- Restricting Food Intake: The smaller stomach limits how much food you can eat in one sitting.
- Hormonal Changes: The part of the stomach that is removed is responsible for producing ghrelin, the “hunger hormone.” Lower ghrelin levels reduce appetite, making it easier to stick to smaller meals.
Patients typically lose 60% to 70% of their excess body weight within 12 to 18 months after surgery.
Who Is a Candidate for Sleeve Gastrectomy?
This procedure is usually recommended for individuals who:
- Have a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 or more, or
- Have a BMI of 35 or more with serious health conditions like type 2 diabetes, hypertension, or sleep apnea
- Have struggled with weight loss through traditional methods
- Are ready to commit to permanent lifestyle changes, including diet, exercise, and follow-up care
It may also be a suitable option for patients who are not good candidates for more complex procedures like gastric bypass.
Cons of Sleeve Gastrectomy
While sleeve gastrectomy has many advantages, it also comes with some risks and limitations:
1. Irreversible : Once a large portion of the stomach is removed, it cannot be restored. This makes the procedure permanent.
2. Risk of Acid Reflux : Some patients develop gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or find that existing reflux worsens after surgery. This may require medication or additional management.
3. Weight Regain Is Possible : Though uncommon, some patients may regain weight over time if they return to poor eating habits or fail to follow post-operative guidance.
4. Surgical Risks : As with any surgery, sleeve gastrectomy carries some general risks, including:
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Leaks from the stapled stomach
- Blood clots
- Anesthesia-related complications
However, these risks are relatively low when the surgery is performed by an experienced bariatric surgeon like Dr. Prashanth.
What to Expect Before Surgery
Before undergoing sleeve gastrectomy, you’ll go through a comprehensive evaluation to ensure you’re a suitable candidate. This includes:
- Physical examination
- Blood tests
- Nutritional and psychological assessments
- Counseling about dietary and lifestyle changes
- Pre-operative weight loss goals (in some cases)
You may also be asked to follow a low-calorie diet for 1–2 weeks before surgery to reduce liver size and make the procedure safer.
What Happens During Surgery?
Sleeve gastrectomy is typically performed laparoscopically—using small incisions and a camera-guided tool. Here’s how the process works:
- You’ll be placed under general anesthesia.
- Several small incisions are made in the abdomen.
- The surgeon removes about 75–80% of the stomach.
- The remaining stomach is stapled to form a sleeve or tube.
- Incisions are closed, and you are monitored in recovery.
The entire surgery takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, and most patients stay in the hospital for 1–2 days.
What to Expect After Surgery
Recovery and lifestyle changes are critical for long-term success. Here’s what you can expect:
Immediate Recovery
- You’ll start with a liquid diet and gradually progress to pureed, soft, and eventually solid foods over several weeks.
- You’ll likely feel full quickly and need to eat small, frequent meals.
- Pain and fatigue are normal for a few days but are manageable with medication.
Diet and Lifestyle
- You’ll need to commit to a high-protein, low-carb diet with plenty of hydration.
- Regular physical activity is essential.
- Vitamin and mineral supplements (such as B12, calcium, iron, and vitamin D) may be required long-term.
Follow-Up
- Regular follow-ups with Dr. Prashanth and his team will track your weight loss, nutritional status, and overall health.
- Blood tests will help monitor for any deficiencies or complications.
How Much Weight Can You Expect to Lose?
Most patients lose around 60–70% of their excess weight in the first 12–18 months after sleeve gastrectomy. Weight loss is typically fastest in the first 6 months.
Long-term success depends on:
- Following dietary guidelines
- Staying active
- Attending follow-up appointments
- Avoiding high-calorie, processed foods
Is Sleeve Gastrectomy Right for You?
Sleeve gastrectomy is an excellent option for many patients looking for significant, lasting weight loss with a relatively low complication rate. However, it’s not a quick fix. It requires lifelong commitment to healthy eating and lifestyle changes.
Dr. Prashanth will work closely with you to evaluate your health, discuss your goals, and guide you toward the safest and most effective weight-loss strategy.
Final Thoughts
Sleeve gastrectomy is more than just a surgical procedure—it’s a gateway to a healthier, more fulfilling life. With the expert care of Dr. Prashanth and a strong personal commitment, you can achieve lasting results and reduce the risks associated with obesity.
Ready to take the next step? Book a consultation with Dr. Prashanth today and begin your journey toward long-term weight loss and better health.