Gastric sleeve surgery, also known as sleeve gastrectomy, is a surgical weight-loss procedure designed to help individuals suffering from overweight. This procedure is typically performed laparoscopically, involving small instruments inserted through multiple small incisions in the upper abdomen. By reducing the stomach size, the surgery restricts food intake, leading to significant weight loss in patients. It has been proven effective in aiding individuals to lose between 50 and 90 pounds, depending on various factors such as diet and lifestyle choices after the surgery.

Patients who undergo gastric sleeve surgery are put under general anesthesia, ensuring a deep sleep and using a ventilator to assist with breathing during the procedure. The surgery usually lasts between 40 and 70 minutes and is typically performed in a hospital setting. Candidates for this procedure often have a body mass index (BMI) higher than 40 or a BMI above 35 in combination with health complications related to overweight, such as type 2 diabetes or sleep apnea.

Patients must follow a strict postoperative diet and exercise regularly to maintain long-term weight loss and achieve optimal results from gastric sleeve surgery. Also, it is essential to consult with a qualified bariatric surgeon to determine if this procedure is right based on one’s medical history and weight loss goals.

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Benefits of Gastric Sleeve

Gastric sleeve surgery, is a popular bariatric surgery aimed at inducing weight loss. It involves reducing the stomach size, allowing patients to feel full faster and consume fewer calories. This procedure has several benefits that improve the overall health and quality of life for individuals struggling with overweight.

One major benefit of gastric sleeve surgery is the significant weight loss it can provide. On average, patients experience around 60% excess weight loss five years after the procedure. This weight loss improves overall health, allowing individuals to lead more active and fulfilling lives.

Gastric sleeve surgery is also known to improve or even resolve health conditions related to obesity. Common co-morbidities, such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and sleep apnea, can all be positively impacted by this procedure. Patients can reduce their risk of developing further health complications by addressing these conditions.

Another benefit of gastric sleeve surgery is the potential for increased fertility. Overweight can hurt reproductive health, making it more difficult for individuals to conceive or carry a pregnancy. By losing weight through gastric sleeve surgery, patients may increase their chances of having a successful pregnancy.

Finally, the gastric sleeve procedure is often less invasive than other bariatric surgeries. The critical difference is that it does not involve rerouting or reattaching portions of the gastrointestinal tract. This can result in a quicker recovery than options like gastric bypass surgery.

Procedure Overview

Preoperative Preparations

Before undergoing gastric sleeve surgery, patients must complete several preoperative preparations. These steps typically include a thorough physical evaluation, nutritional counseling, and a mental health assessment. Patients may also be asked to lose weight before surgery to reduce risk and improve outcomes. Patients must follow their surgeon’s instructions and recommendations for the best results.

Surgical Procedure

The surgery is performed laparoscopically, making several small incisions in the upper abdomen. The surgeon inserts specialized instruments through these incisions to reduce the stomach’s size. A large portion of the stomach is removed, and the remaining section is formed into a narrow sleeve, significantly limiting food intake and promoting weight loss. The surgery typically takes between 40 and 70 minutes to complete under general anesthesia.

Postoperative Care

After the gastric sleeve surgery, patients must follow a strict diet and gradually progress from liquids to pureed foods and, eventually, solid foods. This process usually spans a few weeks, ensuring the body safely adjusts to the significantly smaller stomach. Patients should also attend regular follow-up appointments with their surgeon to monitor healing, progress, and potential complications. Additionally, patients are encouraged to participate in support groups and regular physical activity to ensure long-term success in maintaining weight loss and a healthy lifestyle.

Risks and Complications

Gastric sleeve surgery, also known as sleeve gastrectomy, is a popular bariatric surgery for weight loss. While it can be highly effective, like any surgery, it has some risks and complications.

Short-term complications may occur shortly after the surgery. Some common ones include:

Excessive bleeding: This may require blood transfusions or additional surgical interventions. 1.
Infection: Infections can occur at the incision sites or within the abdominal cavity1.
Adverse reactions to anesthesia can range from mild to severe and may include nausea, vomiting, or other complications1.
Blood clots: Clots can form in the legs or lungs, posing a significant risk to the patient1.

In the long run, while most people report positive results from gastric sleeve surgery, about 20% of patients may experience long-term complications2. These can include:

Food tolerance issues: Some patients may have difficulty tolerating certain foods, leading to nutritional deficiencies2.
Weight regain: A percentage of patients may regain some or all of the weight they initially lost2.
Relationship issues: Significant weight loss can sometimes strain relationships, as partners may struggle to adapt to the changes2.

Dehydration is another potential complication, as patients can only tolerate small amounts of fluid at a time due to sleeve swelling3. Patients need to follow hydration instructions provided by their healthcare team closely.

In conclusion, while gastric sleeve surgery is an effective weight loss solution, it comes with some risks and complications. Patients should carefully consider these factors and discuss them with their healthcare provider before deciding if the procedure is correct.

Life After Gastric Sleeve

Dietary Changes

After a gastric sleeve surgery, it is essential to make significant dietary changes for optimal long-term success. Initially, liquid foods such as milk can be introduced about 3-7 days post-surgery. Gradually, patients must transition to soft and, eventually, solid foods. Focusing on protein-rich and nutrient-dense choices is crucial while avoiding high-sugar, high-fat, and refined foods. Eating smaller, frequent meals throughout the day and chewing food thoroughly contribute to a successful dietary adjustment.

Lifestyle Changes

In addition to dietary changes, a healthy lifestyle is vital in maintaining long-term success after gastric sleeve surgery and incorporating regular exercise as part of daily routines, aiming for at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity per week. Ensuring proper sleep, managing stress, and staying hydrated also play a significant role in achieving the desired weight loss and overall health improvement goals. Lastly, patients should always be mindful of their choices and prepared for various emotional ups and downs.

Follow-up Monitoring

Follow-up monitoring is a crucial aspect of the gastric sleeve recovery process. Patients must attend scheduled follow-up appointments with their healthcare team to track their progress and address concerns. Most weight loss due to gastric sleeve surgery occurs within the first one to two years, so continuing to attend follow-up appointments once a year is incredibly important to maintain the positive effects of the surgery.

Gastric Sleeve Vs. Other Bariatric Surgeries

Compared with other bariatric surgeries such as gastric bypass, gastric sleeve has similarities and differences. Both procedures aim to promote weight loss by reducing the amount of food consumed and how the body absorbs it. They have similar safety records as well.

However, the critical difference between gastric sleeve and gastric bypass lies in the method of weight loss induction. Gastric bypass involves restriction (limiting stomach capacity) and malabsorption (shortening the small intestine to reduce calorie absorption). In contrast, gastric sleeve focuses solely on regulation without altering the small intestine. This makes gastric sleeve a less complex procedure compared to gastric bypass.

When deciding on the right bariatric surgery, potential candidates should consider their individual needs, health conditions, and weight loss goals. Factors such as the invasiveness of the procedure, possible side effects, and recovery time may influence the decision-making process.

Patients need to consult with their healthcare provider to fully understand the benefits and risks associated with each type of bariatric surgery and determine the most suitable option for their situation.

Things to be considered after sleeve gastrectomy operation

After gastric sleeve in Turkey, the first month is clear fluid period; 2nd and 3rd month are puree period; 4th to 6th month are solid food period. After the operation, the diet program recommended by the doctor must be followed.
When puree food starts after the operation, solid and liquid should not be consumed simultaneously; at least 30 minutes should be given between solid and liquid.
Patients must consume 1.5-liter water per day.
After completing 4th week in the normal food period, patients should avoid consuming more than 4 portions per day. (3 main course + 1 protein-rich course)
In each meal, low calorie and high protein content food must be preferred.
If the patient vomits after consuming solid foods, the patient should consume liquid for 12-24 hours.
After the operation, alcohol consumption is prohibited until approved by the doctor.
Acidic and fizzy drinks are not recommended as these drinks could cause stomach pain and dyspepsia.
Grains (pasta, rice, biscuit), legume, spice and acidic food (lemon, orange) should not be consumed for at least 3 months.
Hard red meat should not be consumed for 1 year after the surgery.
Heavy and excessive physical activity should be avoided for 2 months after the operation.
It is recommended to avoid driving for 2 months.
If you have a physically demanding job, you need to wait for at least 2 weeks before going back to your work.
Patients must avoid sexual intercourse for 2 weeks after the operation.
For women, pregnancy is not advised for the following 2 years. (There is no medical problem for getting pregnant before 2 years. However, vitamin and mineral deficiencies that are common during pregnancy are undesired after this operation.)

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common side effects of the procedure?

Gastric sleeve surgery might cause short-term side effects like nausea, vomiting, gas, bloating, and acid reflux. It’s important to follow your surgeon’s guidelines and practice a healthy lifestyle to reduce the likelihood of these side effects.

How long is the recovery period?

Recovery time for gastric sleeve surgery varies depending on the individual’s overall health and the procedure’s specifics. Generally, patients can expect to return to work within one to three weeks of surgery, while full recovery may take up to six weeks. Always consult your doctor for personalized recovery guidelines.

What are the long-term effects of the surgery?

Long-term effects of gastric sleeve surgery include significant weight loss and improved health conditions like diabetes and hypertension. However, it’s essential to maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle to ensure lasting weight loss results. The gastric sleeve can offer 60-80% excess body weight loss, with most of that weight maintained past five and even ten years.

What are the advantages and disadvantages?

Advantages of gastric sleeve surgery include significant weight loss, improved health conditions, and no need for intestinal bypass or implantation of foreign devices. However, disadvantages include potential complications like leakage, infection, and blood clots. The procedure is also irreversible, meaning the patient must commit to long-term lifestyle changes for optimal results.

How long does the surgery typically take?

The duration of the procedure usually ranges from one to two hours. However, individual cases may vary, and factors like the patient’s health and the surgeon’s expertise can influence the surgery’s length.

What is the cost of Gastric Sleeve in Turkey

The cost of gastric sleeve surgery can range from $5.500 to $9.000 in Turkey, depending on the surgeon’s experience, the surgical facility. Insurance coverage for the procedure varies according to the provider and specific policy. Before committing to the surgery, you must check with your insurance company to determine the exact coverage and out-of-pocket expenses.