Gastric Sleeve (Sleeve Gastrectomy)
Gastric Sleeve Surgery, also known as stomach reduction surgery, involves removing the long and outer side of the stomach (called the big curvature) and shaping the stomach into a tube. It is the most commonly performed obesity surgery in both Turkey and Europe. The main goal is to reduce the hormone Ghrelin by removing the Fundus part of the stomach, which leads to reduced appetite and less food intake.
How Is Gastric Sleeve Surgery Performed?
Sleeve gastrectomy is performed under general anesthesia using the laparoscopic (closed) method. The abdominal wall is not cut open; instead, small instruments with a camera are used. This allows for faster recovery after the surgery.
Who Can Have Gastric Sleeve Surgery?
Patients with BMI over 40 kg/m²
Patients with BMI between 35–40 kg/m² and conditions like hypertension or sleep apnea
Patients with BMI between 30–34.9 kg/m² and uncontrolled diabetes
This surgery is not a cosmetic operation; it is a medical intervention for obesity.
At What Age Can Gastric Sleeve Surgery Be Performed?
It can be done for individuals aged 18 to 65 with a BMI of 35 or above.
Is There Pain After Surgery?
Since the surgery is done laparoscopically with millimetric incisions, there is minimal pain. Muscle tissue is not cut, so recovery is fast. Patients usually get up and walk the same evening, and pain mostly subsides within two days.
How Long Is the Hospital Stay?
Patients typically stay in the hospital for 48–72 hours. This may vary depending on pre-operative weight and other health conditions.
Post-Operative Nutrition
Weeks 1–2: Liquid foods
Weeks 2–4: Soft, watery foods
From week 5: Solid foods
It is crucial to consume 1.5–2 liters of liquid daily and eat protein-rich, low-calorie foods.
How Much Weight Can Be Lost?
Patients can lose up to 60% of their excess weight within 5 years. Although weight loss is similar to Gastric Bypass, vitamin and mineral supplementation is required, as some absorption still decreases.
If weight regain occurs over time, Gastric Bypass may be considered as a revision surgery. Weight regain happens in about 15% of cases, and 5–10% may become morbidly obese again, highlighting the importance of regular follow-up.
Advantages of Gastric Sleeve Surgery
Effective for moderately and morbidly obese patients
70–80% improvement in obesity-related conditions like hypertension, sleep apnea, and diabetes
No intestinal modification
The stomach’s function remains intact; only volume is reduced
50% of excess weight lost within 6 months
Ghrelin hormone production is significantly reduced
No artificial object inside the body (unlike gastric bands)
Very low long-term complication rate compared to other methods
Recovery Rates of Diseases Associated with Obesity
| Disease | Recovery Rate (%) |
|---|
| Asthma | 72% |
| Gastroesophageal Reflux (GERD) | 60% |
| Hypertension | 50% |
| High Cholesterol | 77% |
| Sleep Apnea | 60% |
| Joint Osteoarthritis | 75% |
| Type 2 Diabetes | 50–64% |
| Depression | 75% |
There are several surgical options for treating morbid obesity. Among these, Gastric Sleeve is one of the most widely used. After evaluating your condition, your doctor will recommend the most suitable option. A healthier, obesity-free life is possible within just a few months.
