Everything You Need to Know about the Gastric Sleeve Surgery
The gastric sleeve accounts for almost 60% of all bariatric procedures, making it the most popular weight-loss surgery – so what makes the sleeve so special?
The vertical sleeve gastrectomy helps patients lose weight safely and effectively, and studies show that many patients see results that last long after surgery. Whether you’re ready to schedule your sleeve or you simply want to learn more, read on for everything you need to know about the gastric sleeve!
What is the gastric sleeve?
The gastric sleeve – also called the vertical sleeve gastrectomy or sleeve surgery – is a minimally-invasive procedure designed to help people lose weight and live healthier. It is acclaimed by professionals for helping patients lose anywhere from 65 to 70% of their excess weight on average.
At NYBG, our surgeons perform single-incision laparoscopic surgery via a single entry-point through the belly button. This allows for little to no scarring and helps decrease the need for a lengthy recovery.
During the 35 minute long surgery, the surgeon will insert a tiny camera called a laparoscope and several instruments to perform the surgery. Using a stapling device, the surgeon will remove 85-90% of your stomach. The remaining stomach, shaped like a banana, is only 10-15% of its previous volume.
What does it do?
The main result of sleeve surgery is that it helps you lose excess weight, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg!
By limiting how much food your stomach can hold, the sleeve gastrectomy helps you feel fuller, longer – all while eating less. Hormonal changes boost these effects as well; the lining of your stomach produces ghrelin – an appetite hormone that makes us feel hunger.
The gastric sleeve removes a significant portion of the stomach and reduces the amount of ghrelin your body produces. This drop in ghrelin helps you stay on track after surgery.
This procedure also resets your metabolism to maintain a lower “set point.” – the natural weight your body automatically works to maintain. So not only does the sleeve gastrectomy set you up for success, it helps your body work to achieve it and maintain it!
What can I expect before surgery?
Before your procedure, we first confirm that you are a candidate and that you are healthy enough to undergo surgery. This includes a series of routine tests and specialist visits, including:
- Blood tests
- Sleep study
- Cardiology evaluation
- Pulmonary evaluation
- Psychiatric evaluation
- Nutrition evaluation
- Endoscopy to look at the lining of your stomach
You will also have a consultation with your surgeon and meeting with staff nutritionists and psychologists to help set your expectations and plan for life after surgery.
At other bariatric practices, patients need to schedule multiple appointments at different locations to complete their pre-surgery workup routine- that process can take several weeks to complete. At NYBG, all our specialists are under one roof- you can complete a full workup in just one day!
How long is the recovery period?
Due to the minimally-invasive approach, the sleeve gastrectomy requires less recovery time than some similar, more intense procedures. Most patients require one night’s stay in the hospital, but return home the day following their surgery.
We recommend that patients spend their time at home staying hydrated, resting as necessary, and avoiding any strenuous movements or exercises.
Getting back to work depends on the physical requirements of your job, and most patients are back to their position within one week.
Every patient heals differently, so their experiences vary based on particular needs, health, and profession. One thing is always constant – NYBG is there every step of the way!
What can I expect after surgery?
After surgery, life is going to be different. When patients get home from the hospital, they need to take time to focus on getting comfortable, staying properly hydrated, and resting.
Patients start a restricted post-op diet. In the first days after a procedure, your meals consist of finely chopped protein supplemented by protein shakes. At four weeks after surgery, you convert to solid protein and healthy vegetables – albeit in smaller portions than before.
Some tips that can help patients at any stage after surgery:
- Drink 64oz of fluids a day, sipping liquids between meals – not with them
- Keep meals small and eat three discrete meals throughout the day
- Eat and drink slowly, remembering the “20 Rule”
- Meals should take at least 20 minutes
- Chew food 20 times before swallowing
- Place down your utensil for 20 seconds between mouthfuls
- Eat protein first
- Include vitamin supplements
After surgery, you can also count on continued care from the entire team at NYBG! Our surgeons, dietitians, and psychologists are all available to provide any help or advice you may need throughout your journey. We also schedule check-in appointments to monitor your progress and help you stay on the path to success!
What makes NYBG different?
Not all bariatric practices are created equal – it’s important to choose a team at the forefront of the field who knows how to maximize results for each patient and is committed to your success.
At NYBG, we have performed thousands of gastric sleeves, and we have the tools you need to make the most of this cutting-edge procedure. We are devoted to helping patients achieve their health goals with a track record that proves we are the best.
Ready to get started? We want to take the first step with you – schedule an appointment today.
COME TO NYBG.
When it’s time to start a successful weight-loss journey, it’s time to call NYBG! We’re the best practice around and our numbers prove it:
- 13 skilled surgeons who are leaders in bariatrics
- 15,000 successful procedures performed with more every day
- The #1 gastric balloon practice by volume – most balloons placed in the United States
- 24/7 access to online seminars
- 100s of videos for patients explaining procedures, answering common questions, and showcasing previous patients
- Multiple offices located in three states; NY, NJ, CT
- Since 2000, we boast 18 years of success!
Our commitment to patient success and excellence has earned us accreditation from the Metabolic Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP). This prestigious achievement recognizes only the top bariatric practices. Stop waiting; start achieving better health today.
