Sleeve Gastrectomy

The sleeve gastrectomy (gastric sleeve surgery) is a relative newcomer in the field of obesity surgery but is one that is gaining in popularity among surgeons as it takes less time to perform than gastric bypass surgery.

Sleeve Gastrectomy

The sleeve gastrectomy procedure is simpler and shorter than a bypass and, although it is not quite as effective, it can produce results close to that of a bypass. It is performed as a single weight-loss procedure or as the first part of a two-stage surgery (duodenal switch or gastric bypass).

How is the sleeve gastrectomy performed?

The sleeve gastrectomy is a restrictive procedure as it involves removing about 75% of the stomach. The remaining stomach is in the shape of a narrow tube so giving the procedure the name “sleeve”.

The procedure does not only limit the amount of food a person can eat, it also reduces the appetite as the portion of the stomach that is removed contains the hormone ghrelin which is the hormone responsible for stimulating appetite.

The sleeve gastrectomy operation is performed laparoscopically (using keyhole surgery) under a general anaesthetic. The surgeon makes a few small incisions in the abdominal wall for the insertion of long, thin surgical instruments. A narrow camera is passed through one of these incisions so the surgeon can view the operative site on a nearby video monitor.

The stomach is sealed vertically from top to bottom leaving a banana or ‘sleeve’ shaped stomach that is around a quarter of its original size. The excess stomach is removed. The valve at the base of the stomach, which regulates the emptying of the stomach into the small intestine, remains intact thereby normal stomach function is maintained.

Benefits of the sleeve gastrectomy

  • Quicker procedure than the gastric bypass
  • Rapid initial weight loss
  • Nutrients and vitamins fully absorbed
  • Carried out using keyhole surgery leaving minimal scarring
  • Helps create and maintain a feeling of fullness
  • Makes it easier to adopt changes to your eating habits and lifestyle

Is the sleeve gastrectomy right for me?

The decision to have a gastric sleeve should not be taken lightly and you will need to consult with your surgeon who will advise you of the advantages, risks and expectations of this surgery. Our team will only perform the operation once they are confident that you understand how the sleeve gastrectomy works and that you have the commitment to work with it to develop a new healthier lifestyle.

There may be other medical reasons why surgery is not right for you. Our team will go through your medical history and the results of any tests you may have had prior to agreeing to proceed.

To qualify for gastric sleeve surgery you must have tried to lose weight using conventional methods without long-term success and be:

  • At least 18 years old
  • Overweight with a Body Mass Index (BMI) above 40
  • Overweight with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 35 or above and suffer from an obesity-related health condition that poses a serious risk to your long term health (e.g. diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, etc)
  • Not suffering from any other diseases that may have caused your obesity
  • Willing to continue being monitored by the specialist treating you
  • Ready to commit to long-term changes relating to eating patterns and exercise

How much weight could I expect to lose?

The amount of weight you lose depends on your motivation, commitment to change your eating habits and adopt a healthier lifestyle. Therefore, some people lose more weight than others. Reduxion will provide you with regular follow-ups to ensure you get the advice and support you need to reach your weight loss goals. On average patients lose about 60% of their excess weight in the first year after sleeve gastrectomy.

To learn more about this procedure  contact us on 01753 665480.