What Is Gastric Sleeve Surgery?
Gastric sleeve surgery is a type of weight loss (bariatric) surgery that reduces the size of your stomach by about 75–85%. After the procedure, your new stomach can hold less food, so you feel full with smaller portions. You also produce less of the hunger hormone (ghrelin), which helps reduce appetite.
Unlike some other weight loss procedures, this surgery does not involve rerouting the intestines or placing foreign devices in the body. It is typically done laparoscopically, meaning smaller cuts, faster recovery, and less pain.
Types of Gastric Sleeve Surgery
Gastric sleeve procedures can be adapted based on individual needs. The type of surgery chosen depends on factors like your weight, health conditions, and past surgical history.
- Conventional Sleeve Gastrectomy: This standard version removes about 75–80% of the stomach. It’s the most commonly performed and widely recommended type due to its high success rate and safety profile.
- Modified Sleeve Gastrectomy (Mini Sleeve): Here, slightly less of the stomach is removed. This may be suitable for patients who require a less aggressive approach or have anatomical variations.
- Extended Sleeve Gastrectomy: More than 80% of the stomach is removed in this type, offering greater food restriction. It may be used for patients with a higher body mass index (BMI) but carries a slightly higher risk of complications.
- Resleeve Gastrectomy: This is a revision surgery for individuals who have previously had sleeve surgery but didn’t lose enough weight or regained weight. It involves removing more stomach tissue to increase restriction.
- Duodenal Switch with Sleeve Gastrectomy: This is a combination surgery that includes both a gastric sleeve and intestinal bypass. It’s typically used for people with severe obesity and related metabolic disorders like diabetes. It provides powerful weight loss and blood sugar control but is more complex.
Why Is Gastric Sleeve Surgery Performed?
Gastric sleeve surgery is typically recommended for patients with:
- A body mass index (BMI) of 40 or more
- A BMI of 35 or more along with serious health conditions such as diabetes, sleep apnea, or heart disease
- Failure to lose weight through diet, exercise, or medication
The main goals include:
- Weight loss through reduced stomach capacity.
- Improved metabolic function, including better insulin sensitivity.
- Reduced dependency on medications for obesity-related conditions.
- Improved physical activity, sleep, and energy levels.
- Better emotional health, self-esteem, and confidence.
Health Benefits of Gastric Sleeve Surgery
Gastric sleeve surgery is more than a weight loss procedure it’s a way to reclaim your overall health.
- Significant Weight Loss: Patients can lose 50–70% of their excess weight within 1–2 years after surgery.
- Better Blood Sugar Control: Many people with type 2 diabetes see major improvements in blood sugar levels. Some no longer need diabetes medications after surgery.
- Lower Blood Pressure and Cholesterol: Weight loss helps reduce the strain on your heart, lowering the risk of cardiovascular problems.
- Relief from Sleep Apnea: As body weight drops, breathing during sleep improves, leading to better rest and less daytime fatigue.
- Joint Pain Reduction: Less weight on the knees, hips, and lower back means less pain and greater mobility.
- Improved Fertility and Hormonal Balance: Women often experience more regular periods, and both men and women may see fertility improvements.
- Liver Function Improvement: Obesity-related fatty liver disease can improve or resolve with significant weight loss.
Risks and Complications of Gastric Sleeve Surgery
Like any major surgery, sleeve gastrectomy carries some risks. While complications are uncommon, it’s important to be aware of them:
- Staple Line Leaks: Leakage of stomach contents can occur from the stitched area
- Infection: At incision sites or inside the abdomen
- Bleeding: May occur during or after surgery
- Blood Clots: Risk of deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism
- Hernia: Incisional or internal hernias may occur
- Acid Reflux: Some patients may develop or worsen GERD
- Strictures: A narrowing of the stomach that can cause nausea and difficulty eating
- Nutritional Deficiencies: Especially if post-op supplements and dietary guidelines aren’t followed
Your surgeon will guide you through steps to minimize these risks and monitor you closely after surgery.
Medical Conditions Gastric Sleeve Surgery Can Help Treat
By reducing body fat and improving metabolic health, gastric sleeve surgery can improve or reverse several chronic conditions:
- Type 2 Diabetes
- High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)
- High Cholesterol (Hyperlipidemia)
- Obstructive Sleep Apnea
- Osteoarthritis and Joint Pain
- Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and infertility
- Acid reflux (GERD) and certain GI conditions
What is the Cost of a Gastric Sleeve Operation?
The cost of gastric sleeve surgery can be a significant factor in deciding whether to pursue the procedure. SCI Hospital understands these concerns and can help you explore various options to manage costs. Health insurance coverage often plays a key role, and we can assist you in navigating your insurance plan's specific benefits and requirements. Additionally, government schemes and financial assistance programs may be available to support those seeking bariatric surgery. Contact SCI Hospital to learn more about cost management and explore how we can help you access affordable care.
Remember, the specifics of your situation, insurance coverage, and available financial assistance will determine the final cost. Discussing your individual circumstances with SCI Hospital will provide you with a clearer picture of what to expect.
Dr. Vishal Dutt Gour
MBBS , MS - General Surgery , MCh - Urology
- Pain Management Specialist
- 22+ Years Years Experience
Dr. Gautam Banga
MBBS, MS - General Surgery, MCh - Urology Urologist, Andrologist, Urological Surgeon
- Pain Management Specialist
- 13+ Years Years Experience
FAQs
Gastric sleeve surgery is a permanent change to your stomach. It removes part of the stomach, creating a smaller “sleeve” that helps you feel full sooner and eat less. While the physical change is permanent, long-term success depends on healthy lifestyle habits. At SCI Hospital, we provide ongoing support after surgery, including nutrition guidance and counselling to help you maintain your weight and overall health.
Yes, gastric sleeve surgery is a major procedure, and understanding its risks and benefits is essential. At SCI Hospital, your safety is our top priority. Our skilled team uses minimally invasive techniques for a smoother recovery and less discomfort. We offer complete care before and after surgery to support your journey. To find out if this treatment is right for you, schedule a consultation with us online or by phone. We're here to help you make an informed decision.
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Dr. Vishal Dutt Gour is the Consultant Urologist and Male Fertility Specialist at SCI International Hospital. After graduating as a doctor from Seth GS Medical College and KEM Hospital in Mumbai, Dr. Gour gained his General Surgery and Urology Specialist qualifications from B J Medical College and Civil Hospital, Ahmedabad. He was awarded the Shri Dhirajlal Desai Medal for first in M.Ch (Urology).
