Gastric Sleeve Surgery

What is the Gastric Sleeve?

Sleeve gastrectomy, commonly referred to as the gastric sleeve, is a surgical procedure for the treatment of obesity. The operation has received a lot of attention in the last few years as a safe and effective alternative to gastric bypass surgery and laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding. It is quickly gaining in popularity with both bariatric surgeons and individuals considering surgical treatment for obesity.

The operation reduces the size of the stomach to help you eat less and feel full faster, resulting in significant weight loss and improved health. While the procedure itself is not new, the use of the gastric sleeve as a stand-alone obesity intervention is a newer approach. For many years, the procedure was performed as the first portion (the gastric component) of the more complex malabsorptive duodenal switch bariatric surgery.

The operation is considered a restrictive procedure, as it limits the quantitiy of food that can be consumed at any one time. It does not involve altering the intestines (like gastric bypass) and does not require an implanted weight loss device (such as a gastric band), and does not need adjustments (like the gastric band).

How it Works

With gastric sleeve weight loss surgery, a large portion of the stomach is permanently removed to limit eating and control hunger while keeping both ends of the stomach intact. Food moves through the digestive system in the normal physiologic manner, greatly reducing the risk of complications and allowing for normal food digestion and absorption.

Studies to date are supporting this procedure as an acceptable surgical option for weight loss in severely obese individuals. The risk to benefit ratio is favorable for most individuals who are suffering from an extreme amount of excess weight and obesity associated health conditions that are affecting their longevity and quality of life.

If you are suffering from severe obesity and looking into the options for weight loss surgery, learn more about the advantages and benefits of the gastric sleeve weight loss surgery and find out if this procedure is right for you.