What is a sleeve gastrectomy?

Sleeve gastrectomy, also known as a gastric sleeve, is an irreversible weight loss procedure wherein a large part of your stomach is removed, leaving only around 15-50% of its original size.

This procedure is not recommended for patients who have severe gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), Barrett’s esophagus, or patients who have previously undergone a gastrectomy.

What happens during a sleeve gastrectomy surgery?

You will have an initial consultation with your surgeon to discuss the suitability of the procedure, to communicate your desired goal, discuss options, and discuss the procedure. Your surgeon will usually request for you to undergo some tests to determine your suitability for the procedure. Your surgeon may also require you to follow a diet and activity plan, abstain from smoking and being around second hand smoke (if applicable), and discontinuing certain medications (if applicable). Once all of the details are agreed upon and confirmed, a date for the procedure is set.

Prior to the procedure, a general anaesthetic is usually administered. There are generally two techniques used in a sleeve gastrectomy procedure – the open surgery technique, or the laparoscopic technique. Most surgeons perform the laparoscopic technique as it is not as invasive as the open surgery technique, less risk of complications, and it has a quicker recovery period. During the procedure, the surgeon would usually remove about 3/4 of your stomach along the outside curvature. This is performed using a stapling device to create two separate sections – the section which is removed, and the sleeve of the stomach that will remain. The section of the stomach which is removed is done so through a small incision and the remaining part of the stomach is stapled back together. Coloured liquid is then injected into the remaining section of your stomach through a gastroscope to ensure that the new stomach is sealed and that there are no leaks.

The procedure usually takes approximately 1-2 hours. Most patients will usually spend 3-5 days in the hospital. It is common to feel pain, discomfort and soreness for a few days post-procedure. Your surgeon may prescribe some painkillers depending on the severity of the pain. Your digestive system may need time to re-adjust, and some patients may even experience diarrhoea. You will be provided with dietary advice which you must follow to ensure you do not miss out on important nutrients and to ensure you lose weight. You should be able to return to work within 1-2 weeks post-procedure so long as it does not involve any strenuous activity or heavy lifting. You should be fully recovered within 4-weeks post-procedure, and showing signs of weight loss.

How do I find the right surgeon?

The best way is to speak to a few surgeons and find out which surgeon you are most comfortable with. At Holiday Health, we can connect you to reputable and reliable surgeons. We strongly suggest you take into consideration that the surgeon you choose:

• is reputable and trustworthy;
• has a proven track record;
• is registered with or accredited by their local government or the governing medical body or association;
• has never been disqualified from practising anywhere in the world;
• has never been found guilty of endangering a patient’s life; and
• has never been found guilty of malpractice.

You should also include any preferences you might have. For example, you might be more comfortable with a female surgeon, or someone who has more experience.

Important 

Before your procedure, you will have the opportunity to discuss your goals and the results you would like to achieve with your surgeon. Communication is vital in reaching your goals. Ensure you communicate your vision clearly to your surgeon and re-confirm the intended procedure to ensure there is no miscommunication. Your surgeon will work with you to reach an understanding about what you can expect from this procedure, and what long-term benefits and side-effects you may experience. Every patient is different, and your specialist will choose the surgical technique and treatment plan that is right for you.

Your surgeon will give you specific instructions on how to prepare for surgery, including guidelines on eating and drinking, smoking, and which vitamins and medications should be taken or avoided.

Please note. The information found on this website is purely for educational purposes only and should not be relied upon for its exactness or for its accuracy for your specific situation and/or for your specific procedure. The information provided is not a substitute for advice from your physician / surgeon as it may not contain all the known facts, risks and side effects of this procedure. Please consult with your physician / surgeon about your personal circumstances and about your personal procedure / treatment plan. We take no responsibility for any misinformation, inaccuracies, or for any loss or damage suffered by you in relation to the services we provide to you, or the information provided on our website.