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Home » Frequently Asked Questions » Sleeve Gastrectomy Surgery

Sleeve Gastrectomy

What is Sleeve Gastrectomy Surgery?

Sleeve Gastrectomy surgery, also referred to as Vertical Gastrectomy, is a restrictive weight loss surgical procedure. It is restrictive in the sense that it :restricts" how much food the stomach can hold before feeling full.

How is the surgery performed?

In a sleeve gastrectomy surgery, the left side of the stomach is removed leaving a smaller sleeve or tube that is shaped like a banana. This surgery is performed laparoscopically through tiny incisions and involves stapling of the stomach into a tube shape or "sleeve" after removal of 75% of the stomach.

Why is Sleeve Gastrectomy considered part of a two part surgery?

Patients with excessively high BMI's (over 55), are at increased risk for Bariatric surgery. Therefore, your surgeon may recommend performing the sleeve gastrectomy as the first part of a two part surgery. This enables the patient to lose weight for the first year prior to the second surgery where gastric bypass is performed to assist the patient with the remaining weight loss. Because the patient loses weight from the sleeve gastrectomy, there is less risk associated with the second surgery to do the bypass. Highly motivated patients may not require the second stage of surgery if adequate weight loss is achieved by sleeve gastrectomy alone.

How much weight will I lose?

Total weight loss with sleeve gastrectomy surgery is less than gastric bypass patients but more that gastric banding patients. You can expect to lose approximately 50-60% of your excess weight.

What can I expect after the surgery when I eat?

You will only be able to eat a few ounces of food at a time. You will not be able to drink and eat at the same time as your new stomach will not be able to hold both. You will also have to concentrate on eating slower and chewing your food thoroughly.

What are the advantages of Sleeve Gastrectomy Surgery?

Advantages of Sleeve Gastrectomy Surgery includes:

Reduced stomach volume increases feeling of fullness
Stomach functions normally allowing most foods to be eaten, just in smaller amounts
Stomach portion that produces hunger stimulating hormone (Ghrelin) is removed.
No dumping syndrome due to pyloric portion of stomach is left intact
No intestinal bypass and its associated risks
Can be performed laparoscopically
Simpler procedure than gastric bypass
Safer first stage procedure of two stage surgery for super morbidly obese
No foreign bodies used such as in band surgery

What are the disadvantages of Sleeve Gastrectomy Surgery?

Disadvantages of Sleeve Gastrectomy Surgery include:

Potential is higher for inadequate weight loss or weight regain compared to intestinal bypass surgeries
Irreversible due to stomach removal instead of stapling
Considered a temporary treatment for obesity unless second stage (bypass) is performed
Potential for dilation of the sleeve affecting weight loss
Currently under study as a standalone surgery, but is considered investigational and may not be covered by insurance.