Ask the Experts Blog

If you have been struggling to lose weight and have a Body Mass Index (BMI) over 35, maybe you’ve considered bariatric surgery. You probably already know that bariatric surgery is an option for some people who have not been able to lose weight with other methods. What you may not know is there are different types of bariatric surgery, including one called a sleeve gastrectomy.

So, what is it, exactly?

A sleeve gastrectomy is a procedure to make your stomach smaller, so that you feel full a lot quicker. The surgery can be done with the assistance of the da Vinci® surgical robot. It is done with a minimally invasive approach with small incisions in your abdomen. The surgeon removes a large portion of the stomach, approximately 80%, leaving a banana-shaped “sleeve.” The procedure takes approximately one hour and you’ll be under general anesthesia.

How is sleeve gastrectomy different from other bariatric surgeries?

Unlike gastric bypass and duodenal switch, a sleeve gastrectomy doesn’t rearrange the digestive system. This means a shorter surgery time, lower complication rate, and quicker recovery. It also doesn’t leave any foreign objects in the body like a Lap-Band®, which leaves a silicone band around the upper portion of your stomach, and requires regular adjustments at the doctor’s office.

What are some other benefits of gastric sleeve surgery?

If you have a BMI of more than 35, a sleeve gastrectomy may be used as a surgery to help you lose weight.

All weight loss surgeries have gradual weight loss and require major lifestyle changes for success. In the first two years after a sleeve gastrectomy most people will lose between 40% and 50% of their excess body weight.

If you’re interested in a sleeve gastrectomy, please talk to your provider to see if you’re a candidate. You’ll have to have a complete physical exam to ensure you’re healthy enough to have the surgery.

The Lakeland Comprehensive Weight Loss Center was created to help people learn healthy approaches to losing weight and maintaining a healthy weight for years to come. Our team will work with you to assess your individual circumstances, then create a customized plan to work toward your goal.

For more information about this and permanent weight loss solutions, visit www.lakelandweightlosscenter.com or call (269) 687-4673.