Sleeve Gastrectomy

Sleeve Gastrectomy is a restrictive bariatric weight loss procedure in which a large part of the stomach, approximately 85%, is surgically removed. This results in a new stomach, which is roughly the size and shape of a small banana. It generates weight loss by restricting the amount of food and, therefore, calories that can be eaten without bypassing the intestines. Food continues to be digested through the normal digestive and absorption process, so there is no risk of macronutrient malabsorption.

Sleeve Gastrectomy is performed by laparoscopic, or minimally invasive surgery, through a few small incisions using small instruments and a camera to guide the surgery, and typically requires a two-day hospital stay. Laparoscopic surgery allows for faster recovery, less post-operative pain and fewer wound complications, such as infections and hernias, than open surgery. The Sleeve Gastrectomy typically involves an overnight hospital stay. Since this operation does not involve re-routing or reconnecting the intestines, it is a simpler operation than Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass. Unlike the Adjustable Gastric Banding procedure, Sleeve Gastrectomy does not require the implantation of an artificial device inside the abdomen and does not require adjustments.

There is a growing body of evidence that Sleeve Gastrectomy surgery, at least within five to eight years of follow-up, provides weight loss outcomes superior to Adjustable Gastric Banding and comparable to Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass.

Sleeve Gastrectomy is currently indicated for patients with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 35 or above. Patients with a BMI of 30-34.9 qualify if they have an obesity-related medical comorbidity.

Patients are asked to follow-up with us every three months the first year and then annually for a review that includes physical examination, nutritional evaluation, labs and the latest information regarding their continuing care.