What is Gastric Sleeve Surgery?
With the gastric sleeve, we remove about 85% of the stomach which leaves a stomach that is much thinner than it used to be, hence the name ‘sleeve’.
How Does Gastric Sleeve Surgery Work?
It works by reducing the capacity of the stomach and by changing the balance of hormones in the stomach. These hormones, such as GLP1, are associated with hunger. It means sleeve patients will often report a reduction in their appetite immediately after surgery. To find out more about how gastric sleeve surgery works, contact us today.
How Much Weight Will I Lose With Gastric Sleeve Surgery?
Patients can expect to lose on average 70% of their excess weight over a 2 year period with most of that being lost in the first year. There is some evidence that weight is regained over the longer term, more so than for the gastric bypass. Click here to get more information on the wider benefits of weight loss surgery.
What is the Hospital Stay and Recovery For Gastric Sleeve Surgery?
Patients will stay at least one night in the hospital. We favour a two-night stay as it gives more opportunity to monitor your recovery. We can also take immediate action in the unlikely event you were to experience a complication. The procedure itself takes on average 1 hour in theatre. You are likely to need at least one week off work to allow your body to recover. To get more details about post-procedure life with the gastric sleeve including aftercare and recovery, contact one of our surgeons today.
Other Considerations For Gastric Sleeve Surgery?
Two important considerations for sleeve patients are that it can lead to acid reflux. Studies show that sleeve patients are prone to develop these symptoms. That risk needs to be weighed against the other benefits associated with the surgery. The other consideration is the risk that you develop a leak from the sleeve’s staple line. This is rare, about 1 in 100 cases, but when it does occur it can require a long hospital stay to treat it. We will explain this in detail at your consultation.