Gastric sleeve surgery, or vertical sleeve gastrectomy (VSG), is one of the most common types of bariatric surgery performed worldwide. This minimally invasive procedure helps patients achieve significant weight loss by reducing the size of the stomach, limiting food intake, and curbing hunger. During the surgery, approximately 75% to 80% of the stomach is removed, leaving behind a sleeve-like structure, which can hold much less food.
This surgery has gained popularity due to its effectiveness, relatively short recovery time, and fewer complications compared to other weight-loss surgeries, such as gastric bypass. Patients who are significantly overweight and have struggled to lose weight through diet and exercise often consider this surgery as a life-changing solution.
How Gastric Sleeve Surgery Works
The primary objective of gastric sleeve surgery is to reduce the stomach’s capacity, leading to weight loss. By removing a large portion of the stomach, the production of ghrelin, the hormone responsible for hunger, is significantly reduced. As a result, patients feel full sooner, helping them eat less and consume fewer calories overall.
The procedure is typically performed laparoscopically, meaning several small incisions are made, and a laparoscope (a thin, flexible tube with a camera) is used to guide the surgeon. This approach minimizes scarring and speeds up recovery time. Once the surgery is complete, the patient’s stomach will be reduced to about 20-30% of its original size.
Benefits of Gastric Sleeve Surgery
- Effective Long-Term Weight Loss:Patients who undergo gastric sleeve surgery can expect to lose a significant amount of their excess weight, often up to 60-70%, within 12-18 months post-surgery. This weight loss can be maintained with the right dietary and lifestyle changes.
- Reduction in Obesity-Related Health Issues:By achieving substantial weight loss, patients often see an improvement or resolution of obesity-related health conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, and high cholesterol.
- Minimally Invasive Approach:As a laparoscopic procedure, gastric sleeve surgery involves small incisions, resulting in less scarring, reduced risk of infection, and a quicker recovery period than open surgery.
- No Foreign Objects:Unlike gastric banding surgery, there are no foreign objects implanted in the body, and there is no need for periodic adjustments or maintenance of the device.
- Preservation of Digestive Function:Since the intestines are not rerouted (as in gastric bypass), the digestive process remains intact, meaning patients can absorb nutrients normally. This lowers the risk of long-term nutrient deficiencies.
What to Expect Before Surgery
Before undergoing gastric sleeve surgery, patients must go through several pre-operative assessments to ensure they are suitable candidates for the procedure. Typically, this includes:
- Comprehensive Medical Evaluation: A detailed review of the patient's medical history, including weight loss attempts, is essential. The doctor will assess whether the patient has any conditions that could complicate surgery or recovery.
- Diet and Lifestyle Changes: Many surgeons recommend that patients start a specific diet a few weeks before surgery. This diet is designed to reduce liver size and improve overall health to minimize risks during the operation.
- Pre-Surgical Tests: Routine tests such as blood work, imaging, and a thorough physical exam are conducted. Some patients may also undergo a psychological evaluation to ensure they are mentally prepared for the significant lifestyle changes after surgery.
The Procedure
The actual surgery lasts about 60-90 minutes and is performed under general anesthesia. The surgeon will make several small incisions to access the abdominal cavity, where the majority of the stomach will be removed. The remaining part of the stomach is stapled and shaped into a narrow tube or sleeve. The new stomach holds only a fraction of the food that the original stomach could accommodate.
Once the surgery is complete, the patient is moved to a recovery area for close monitoring. Most patients stay in the hospital for one or two nights to ensure they are recovering well and to manage any immediate post-operative discomfort.
Recovery Process and Aftercare
The recovery period following gastric sleeve surgery is relatively short compared to other bariatric procedures. Here’s a general overview of what patients can expect:
- Hospital Stay: Patients typically stay in the hospital for one to two days after surgery. During this time, healthcare providers monitor the patient’s recovery and ensure that there are no complications.
- Post-Surgery Diet: Initially, the patient will be on a clear liquid diet for a few days. Gradually, they will move on to pureed foods, then soft foods, before finally reintroducing solid foods over the span of several weeks. Following the dietary plan provided by the healthcare team is crucial for proper healing and weight loss.
- Activity Restrictions: Patients are encouraged to walk around soon after surgery to promote circulation and prevent blood clots. However, they must avoid strenuous activity, heavy lifting, and certain physical movements for at least four to six weeks.
- Follow-Up Care: Regular follow-up appointments are critical to track the patient's progress. These appointments help monitor weight loss, nutritional intake, and any post-surgical issues.
- Emotional and Psychological Support: Significant weight loss can lead to physical and emotional changes. Patients are often encouraged to join support groups or seek counseling to navigate the psychological aspects of their weight-loss journey.
Risks and Considerations
Like any surgical procedure, gastric sleeve surgery carries certain risks. While complications are rare, it's essential to be aware of potential issues, including:
- Bleeding or infection: As with any surgery, there is a risk of bleeding or infection, though these are minimized with modern surgical techniques.
- Staple line leaks: In rare cases, the stapled section of the stomach may leak, leading to infection or other complications.
- Nutrient deficiencies: Although gastric sleeve surgery allows for normal digestion, the reduced food intake may lead to deficiencies in vitamins and minerals. Patients may need to take supplements long-term.
- Acid reflux: Some patients experience worsening or new-onset acid reflux after surgery, which may require management with medications or lifestyle changes.
How to Choose the Right Surgeon
Selecting the right surgeon and hospital is critical for ensuring a safe and successful outcome. Here are some tips for making an informed choice:
- Board Certification and Credentials: Ensure that the surgeon is board-certified in bariatric surgery and has extensive experience in performing gastric sleeve procedures.
- Hospital Accreditation: Choose a hospital that is accredited for its bariatric services. Hospital BC is known for its high standards of care in this field.
- Patient Reviews and Testimonials: Reading reviews from past patients can provide insight into the surgeon’s expertise and the hospital’s quality of care.
- Comprehensive Aftercare Program: A successful weight-loss journey extends beyond the surgery itself. Choose a surgeon and hospital that offer a robust aftercare program, including nutritional support, follow-up visits, and psychological counseling if needed.
We highly recommend Dr. Jalil Illan Fraijo, MD. Dr. Illan is a Tijuana bariatric surgeon and one of Mexico's top-ranked, board-certified weight loss surgeons. Dr. Jalil Illan is a recognized expert in laparoscopic surgery who has performed over 16,500 metabolic and bariatric surgeries; 6,000 revision surgeries, and helped more than 22,000 patients.
During this time, he distinguished himself by publishing research articles in Obesity and General Surgery. Afterward, Dr. Illan completed an intensive four-year fellowship program in Laparoscopic Bariatric Surgery with world-renowned surgeon, Dr. Juan Lopez Corvalá. Dr. Jalil Illan completed advanced courses in both Laparoscopic Surgical Techniques and Laparoscopic Gastric Bypass at the prestigious Hospital Oswaldo Cruz Sao Paulo, Brazil – which holds a position as one of the most recognized healthcare institutions in Brazil. He has become one of the few Master Surgeons in Tijuana, Mexico. A distinguished accreditation by the Surgical Review Corporation in Mexico. Dr. Illan has always strived for a better education and overall practice in his medical career.
To learn more about Dr. Illan or to contact him, please visit www.drjalil.com.
